When deciding to re-side your home, it can be difficult to get a handle on all the terms. It’s exciting once you start researching siding options for appearance and inspiration, but understanding the substrate specifics can be daunting. It’s important to learn the key differences before jumping into a decision.
A good place to start is understanding the difference between composite siding vs. engineered wood siding, as composite siding is one of the most popular options around. Traditionally, composite siding is made up of fibrous wood pieces as a base that is bonded with additional materials. However, there are also composite siding options that do not use wood as the base (for example using cement instead). There are many different composite siding options to choose from, with one of those being engineered wood siding.
Specifically, LP® SmartSide® Trim & Siding is an engineered wood siding that features proprietary technology for protection against hail, wind, moisture, fungal decay and termites. LP SmartSide Trim & Siding is made of Aspen, a light wood that includes minimal extractives or tannins that could stain and bleed through, which helps improve appearance. During the manufacturing process, the product is cut and sliced into strands.
“The strand size is important,” said Matt Vrazel, the Process and Product Development Manager at LP Building Solutions. “If the strand is too small, it compromises strength. If the strand is too large, it creates too many variations in density.”
LP SmartSide siding is made up of wood strands about the size of a business card that are coated with a moisture-resistant overlay and compressed to create superior strength. It is treated with zinc borate that a) is proven to resist termites and fungal decay, b) manufactured to resist moisture and c) provides extreme durability to stand up to impact.
If your contractor uses the term “composite siding,” be sure to ask for further clarification. Since you now know that composite siding is a broad category with many options under its vast umbrella, you are well on your way to being a pro when selecting one that you will be happy with for the years to come.
Sheds and other outdoor building structures serve as practical ways to add storage or create additional living and working space. In recent years, sheds have become a trending focus for homeowners looking to maximize their space or level-up their exteriors. If you’re looking to purchase a shed and need some inspiration, LP® SmartSide® engineered wood siding styles can help you achieve a variety of goals for your outdoor structure. To spark some inspiration, we spoke with David Parraguirre, also known as The Mexican Carpenter, about his customized shed build.
Continue ReadingIt’s a new year—and perhaps also time for new siding! The start of a new year always brings resolutions and goals, and when it comes to your home it’s the perfect time for an exterior refresh. Whether your current exterior material is worn or you’re just looking to try new siding trends, updating your siding can transform your home with a longer-lasting, premium aesthetic.
As seasons change, you may find yourself wanting to add seasonal decor to your house. When considering mounting decorations or more functional assets such as lights to your home’s exterior, you may be wondering how to hang items on siding. While LP® SmartSide® Trim & Siding is engineered for longer-lasting durability, there are some key tips to keep in mind to protect your home’s exterior when hanging items on engineered wood siding.
While many homeowners focus their attention on interior holiday decor, giving your home’s exterior a festive upgrade will ensure it’s a showstopper the moment friends and family pull into the driveaway. We talked with lifestyle blogger Liz Marie Galvan to get her top outdoor holiday decorating tips.