While LP® SmartSide® Trim & Siding is easier to install, builders may feel pressured to skip a second look at installation guidelines in order to get a project complete on time or makeup for labor shortages. However, whether you’re a new or longtime LP SmartSide Trim & Siding user, taking the time to be attentive to proper installation will ensure you are upholding your product warranty and avoiding potential issues down the road.
To help prevent improper installation, Isaac Ojeda, Construction Service Associate at LP Building Solutions, has outlined the most common installation mistakes.
Builders can also often forget that different siding types require different installation methods. “When contractors switch from fiber cement to engineered wood, there is often a learning curve,” says Ojeda. “For example, LP SmartSide products grow during the acclimation process, so we require a gap to allow for expansion, while fiber cement products shrink, requiring no gap.”
“We’ve also seen gap issues with joint molding installation. We’re finding installers will leave the required 3/16” gap, but not take the thickness of the web into account. This results in the joint molding being pushed out as our siding acclimates. For proper installation, add the thickness of the molding web to the gap and allow a net 3/16” space for expansion,” says Ojeda.
*This article lists step-by-step instructions for avoiding buckled butt joints.
*This video provides tips on installing metal flashing.
*Review the latest installation instructions.
If you’re looking for more installation instruction videos, check out the product section of our website. For more information on LP SmartSide products, call Customer Support at (800) 450-6106.
Many might assume engineered wood products wouldn’t be a good choice for wildfire-prone regions, but they can be part of a WUI-compliant solution. With LP® SmartSide® Trim & Siding, one of the most durable siding solutions available, you can provide homeowners with a strong exterior look for their home. And by combining it with LP® FlameBlock® Fire-Rated Sheathing, your clients can be assured their home has a durable exterior siding and walls that are compliant with requirements for ignition-resistant construction in WUI areas.
Continue ReadingBecause moisture concerns are common across the United States, water-resistive roof underlayment is critical for any build. To help combat water intrusion, a roof underlayment provides a secondary barrier from moisture between the roof covering and the structure of the build.
Our purpose, Building a Better World™, had guided us in the years prior to 2020, but it was uniquely tested with this year’s challenges. As the comfort of home became increasingly important we sought to put our communities and customers first in new ways, serving them with the need for resiliency and safety in mind.
In fire-prone geographies, such as wildland-urban interface (WUI) areas, fire protection for roofs may be a critical part of a comprehensive approach to slowing the spread of fire and fire damage in homes. A fire classification roof system is required in WUI areas to protect your build and clients’ peace of mind—and with the right products, the installation process can be simple. Let’s take a look at fire-resistant roof sheathing and how it can help you approach building better in fire-prone areas.