What are bearings in relation to siding, and how are they used?

Bearings in relation to siding refer to backing blocks that are installed between the studs. These components play a crucial role in providing additional support and stability for the siding material. When siding is fastened to a structure, having these backing blocks ensures that there is adequate support for the fasteners, which helps maintain the integrity of the siding over time.

Backing blocks also serve to help create a more level surface, accommodating any slight variations in the studs and ensuring that the siding can be applied uniformly. This is particularly important in preventing issues such as warping or bowing of the siding, which can compromise both aesthetics and functionality.

In contrast, vertical supports, weatherproofing materials, and insulation panels, while all important in the context of building and siding, do not specifically define what bearings are in relation to siding installation. Bearings fundamentally focus on providing support and stability between structural elements.