Ways to slash siding sales stress

M.o"t'ffHt"fr' can be eliminated proper storage and niques. complaints and siding products by emphasizing finishing tech-

To assure the best performance, siding products must be properly stored and handled. Siding should be stored inside if at all possible, especially if it won't be used promptly. Even inside it's a good idea to cut the steel banding on bundles to keep it from cutting into the edge if the ma-

Story at a Glance

How to avoid sidang callbacks, solve storage and handling prob lems. .nail and finish recommendations. frce literature.

terial absorbs moisture.

If siding must be stored outdoors, it is necessary to place it on the driest, highest ground area available. Bundles should be stacked off the ground on a level platform supported by 4x4 stringers or other blocking. Siding should never be stacked in contact with the ground.

After the straps are cut, the siding should be loosely covered with plastic sheets or tarps. Care must be taken to allow ample space for air circulation between the cover and the siding. Tight coverings should be avoided since they block necessary circulation of air and create a greenhouse effect which encourages mold formation.

Siding should not be dropped or burnped during handling. Without using special care, it is easy to chip or dent the bevel edges.

All edges on siding panels must be properly sealed before installation to achieve maximum performance. A paintable water repellent preservative or primer, if the siding is to be painted, should be applied to seal edges and prevent sudden changes in panel moisture content during weather fluctuation. Often the siding is sealed when it is manufactured, but if this has not been done, it must be done on the job site. Edge sealing is easiest while the siding is still stacked. Edges or ends cut during construction must be resealed. As a further precaution against customer dissatisfaction, sell nonstaining box, casing or siding nails for siding. The American Plywood Association recommends the 6d size for 3/8" plywood and 8d for thicker panels.

Since weather can damage wood panel siding in as little as two to four weeks, it is wise to give a customer information on the need for prompt finishing. It is preferable that a finish be applied within two weeks of installation. Products which have been pre-primed should be top coated within 60 to 90 days of installation.

High quality stains or paint suitable for the siding grade being used or recommended by the siding manufacturer should be suggested. An all-acrylic latex house paint is the best protection. Solid color stain, either latex or oil based where allowed, provides good protection and semi-transparent stains give minimum protection. APA does not recommend oil based house paints or latex semi-transparent stains.

To assure the best results. all dirt. mildew and loose wood particles must be removed from the siding before applying a finish. Siding must be dry for oil finishes. A slightly damp surface is acceptable for a latex finish. Neither finish should be applied to an extremely cold or hot surface.

The first coat of finish should be applied by brush or sprayed and back brushed while still wet. Brushing helps work the finish into the siding to provide better protection and optimum adhesion.

Literature from the American Plywood Association, P.O. Box 11700, Tacoma, Wa. 9841l-0700 will help you instruct your sales staff in panel handling basics. It is also good to give to customers.