What Is Engineered Wood Siding: A Comprehensive Guide

Siding Pros
Aug 8
3 min read

Engineered wood siding is a popular building material made from wood strands mixed with resin for better performance. This guide explains what engineered wood siding is, how it's made, and why many homeowners choose it. We'll cover its benefits, how to install it, and its expected lifespan. You'll also learn simple maintenance tips to keep your siding looking great. Finding the best siding contractors can help you get quality installation and long-lasting results.

Composition of Engineered Wood Siding

Engineered wood siding is made from wood strands or fibers mixed with resin and pressed into panels. These wood pieces are arranged in different directions during making, which makes the final product stronger and more stable. The resin holds everything together and makes the panels fight off moisture better, so they won't warp or rot easily. Most engineered wood siding panels have a protective coating that adds extra strength and weather protection. This mix creates a siding material that looks like real wood but works much better, making it perfect for homes and businesses.

Benefits and Advantages

Engineered wood siding has many good points because of how it's made and how well it works. One big benefit is that it fights off moisture, decay, and bugs, making it last a long time on building exteriors. The siding is also very stable, meaning it won't warp, crack, or split like regular wood siding often does. This stability means you need less maintenance, and the siding lasts longer. You can also choose from many different styles and finishes, giving you lots of design options for your home. The mix of strength, performance, and looks makes engineered wood siding a great choice for any building project.

Installation Process Explained

Installing engineered wood siding involves several clear steps that most people can understand. First, make sure the wall is clean, dry, and strong. Start by putting starter strips at the bottom of the wall, then add corner trim pieces. Next, attach the siding panels going across, starting from one end and moving to the other. Leave small gaps between joints so the material can expand when temperatures change. Use nails to secure the panels, making sure they're straight and lined up properly. Finish by adding trim pieces around doors, windows, and corners. Finally, apply a weather-resistant coating to protect the siding and extend its lifespan.

Durability and Longevity

The strength and lifespan of engineered wood siding depend mainly on its ability to withstand moisture and weather. This siding can handle different weather conditions like high humidity, extreme temperatures, and heavy rain. The mix of wood fibers, resins, and glues makes it strong and protects it from rot, decay, and bug damage. The making process often includes treatments that help fight fungal growth and sun damage, making it last even longer. Good installation and regular care are important for making engineered wood siding last as long as possible, making it a reliable choice for covering building exteriors.

Maintenance Tips and Best Practices

Taking care of engineered wood siding is important for keeping it looking good and working well over time. Check the siding regularly for damage like cracks, rot, or peeling paint. Clean it once a year with mild soap and water to remove dirt, mold, and mildew. Don't use high-pressure washers because they can damage the wood fibers. Repaint or reseal the siding every 3-7 years, based on the manufacturer's recommendations and the amount of weather it faces. Cut back tree branches that hang over the siding to prevent damage from falling debris. Also, make sure water drains away from the foundation so it doesn't collect near the siding. Following these simple tips will help your engineered wood siding last longer.

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