By Tom Zimmerman, Boral
New siding options offer improved performanGer
traditional aesthetics /-lven rHE pASr several decades. the \-fpopularity of manmade siding
has grown exponentially. Builders have latched on to products with a wide range of offerings and varying value propositions, while architects seek both aesthetic and performance advantages.
Manmade sidings try to replicate wood with faux grains and attempts to
match traditional profiles, although
they may not be suited to the local environment or meet the architectural style. Consumers are faced with making a choice that balances installation, longevity and aesthetics.
installed. Depending on the material, moisture will affect it in various ways including delamination, expansion and
contraction-even all the way to product failure. When using these products, moisture management must be constantly considered during install. Even if installed properly, due to envi-
ronmental exposure some products may experience moisture cycling, which can lead to paint failure or additional maintenance. Aesthetics: Manmade siding products have attempted to mimic the look of historical wood profiles, with varying degrees of success. Many are lim-
balance of performance and the looks customers are demanding.
Boral is pioneering this category with its TruExterior Siding Craftsman Collection, making available an ilray of full-thickness profiles based on regional needs and a long history of architecturally preferred styles, including shiplap, v-rustic, channel, channel bevel, and cove/Dutch lap. Along with a full offering of profiles, poly-ash
siding products have desirable low maintenance traits and a simple instal-
lation message boasting superior workability, durability and dimensional stability. Adding to the appeal of poly-ash siding is its ease of install and being suitable for use at grade and other moisture-prone areas. Installation with
manmade siding products still suffer
ited in their profile offerings. They may have eased edges, or lack the fit
from a number of functional issues.
and finish of classic wood siding.
Homeowners are faced with ill effects
To address demand for lower-maintenance, longer-lasting siding with improved aesthetics, vinyl manufacturers have introduced beaded. shake.
common field practices will not affect or void warranties, allowing contrac-
and other profiles.
tors to continue working with their
Fiber cement manufacturers have developed thicker and more ornate
tools and shortening the learning curve
Despite beneficial qualities, many
of faulty over-hyped materials and installation. Issues include fungal decay, buckling panels, excessive moisture retention, and cracking edges. Builders also face challenges in product thickness and overall shape,
making it difficult or impossible to recreate the profiles used in traditional
offerings to attempt to mimic wood.
construction.
introduced. Poly-ash represents a category of siding and trim that offers a
Some common problems relate to:
New materials have also been
traditional woodworking tools and
for proper application.
- Tom Zimmerman is director of sales
& marketing for Boral's Light Building
Products Division.
Installation: Various offerings of manmade materials can be difficult to
handle and may require special tools
for installation. Manufacturers' guidelines may be hard to follow and go against field installation methods, making it difficult to achieve a warranteed install. Due to their weight,
brittleness or lack of impact resistance, boards can be difficult to handle and install. Moisture : Several exterior products are susceptible to moisture, leading to
failure of the product if not properly Building-Products.com
POLY-ASH siding from Boral improves ease of installation, moisture resistance, and aesthetics.
October 2014 I
Building Products Digest r
17