While many building professionals actively seek out exterior trends at the start of the new year, it’s important to keep on top of trends as we approach the latter half of 2019. Taking a mid-year look at what industry trends have dominated so far and what’s to come will ensure you are delivering your customers timely recommendations when it comes to their home’s aesthetic.
Longevity in Aesthetic & Material
So far, 2019’s overarching exterior theme is longevity. Homeowners are seeking out products and styles that prove to be timeless, but have the durability to last over time. Amy Pierce, Market Development Manager for LP Building Solutions, recognizes the growing demand for long-lasting building materials and says, “With LP® SmartSide® siding products, homeowners like that they can achieve a wide variety of looks for lasting curb appeal, but also have peace of mind that their home is built with advanced durability to ensure longevity.”
Shift to Siding as a Focal Point
In terms of siding materials, Craig Kuhnle, Territory Sales Manager of the Southeast Region for LP Building Solutions, has seen a shift from brick and stone exteriors to other siding options. He explains, “This may signify that both builders and homeowners are looking at siding as more of a focal point of the home than an accent. Using versatile materials, such as LP® SmartSide® siding products, gives them a broader mix of exterior styles to explore.”
Focus on Sleek & Smooth
Both Pierce and Kunhle have also noticed homeowners straying from textured siding and gravitating toward a smoother appearance. According to Kuhnle, “This was a key reason why LP Building Solutions crafted LP® SmartSide® Smooth Trim & Siding, one of the company’s biggest innovations.” Pierce goes on to speak to the popularity of the Modern Farmhouse design in relation to smooth siding options saying, “Using a sleek, smooth finish on the Modern Farmhouse adds an interesting juxtaposition to its natural finishes that strike a balance between classic and contemporary.”
All in all, Pierce and Kunhle both agree that homeowners are becoming more educated about their siding options and in tune to exterior trends, prompting builders to stay ahead of the curb when it comes to trending designs. To stay on top of the latest trends, check back into our professional blog trends section for regular updates
January and February typically usher in the season’s coldest temperatures, bringing the need to use building materials that can withstand frigid temperatures with them. However, it’s often the freeze/thaw cycle––cold days followed by quick warm-ups––that can cause significant damage to a home’s siding. So, what is the best siding for cold climates to combat this?
Continue ReadingWith temperatures dropping, insulation and protecting new construction against the elements are top of mind. Of course, builders must consider how insulated wall sheathing can help meet code requirements and contribute to the overall performance of the building envelope. However, they must also carefully consider potential moisture problems both during and after the build and the potential impacts of freeze/thaw cycles. With the season of potential hard freezes followed by fast warm-ups upon us, let’s explore methods for choosing the best house sheathing for cold climates.
With housing demand at an all-time high, builders do not have the ability to halt home construction during the winter months. Builders can work safely year round, even building houses during winter with planning and preparation. Advanced products and installation methods allow work to be performed during wet and very cold temperatures, but builders also need to consider winter safety for construction workers.
Engineered wood siding has long been considered a trustworthy exterior product for single-family homes, but it is often overlooked for multifamily and commercial construction. LP® SmartSide® products are versatile enough for a range of builds beyond traditional single-family homes. Take a look at the homes featured in Madison Parade of Homes for siding inspiration and to see how LP SmartSide Trim & Siding might suit your building needs.