Boral siding is a composite building material gaining popularity among U.S. builders and contractors for its durability, low maintenance requirements, and eco-friendly composition. Comprised of over 70% recycled materials, Boral is well-suited for sustainable construction projects such as net-zero homes. The product is versatile and can be used for both vertical and horizontal installations, as well as for trim work like fascia, soffits, and corner boards. Given its increasing use in residential and commercial projects, understanding the proper techniques for installing Boral siding is essential for ensuring long-term performance and aesthetic appeal.
This article explores the installation methods, key considerations, and best practices for Boral siding, drawing on insights from technical discussions, builder experiences, and manufacturer resources. The following sections will cover installation over various substrate types, trim work techniques, tooling and safety considerations, and insights from real-world applications.
Installation Over Different Substrates
One of the primary considerations when installing Boral siding is the type of substrate it is applied over. Traditional installation methods for vertical siding often recommend the use of horizontal drainable furring, such as CoraVent, to allow for air movement and moisture management. However, in some cases, direct installation over rigid foam insulation and house wrap is possible, depending on the product and environmental conditions.
In a case detailed in a builder’s inquiry, Boral Bevel siding was being installed vertically over a 1/2-inch plywood wall with Tyvek House Wrap and 1-inch XPS (extruded polystyrene) continuous insulation on the exterior. The Boral representative confirmed that direct installation without furring was acceptable in this case because the composite material does not swell or rot like traditional wood. This approach can save time and materials in construction, particularly in retrofit or addition projects where existing wall assemblies may not support additional furring.
However, this does not mean that all installations can omit furring. The decision to install Boral siding directly over a wall should be based on the specific product, local climate conditions, and the manufacturer's latest recommendations. Builders are encouraged to consult the latest Boral installation guidelines and work closely with the manufacturer’s representative to determine the most appropriate method for their project.
Trim Work with Boral TruExterior
Boral TruExterior is a composite trim product that is designed to complement Boral siding and is available in standard sizes commonly used in wood trim. This makes it a convenient option for fascia, soffits, corner boards, and window and door trim. Like the siding, TruExterior trim is composed of over 70% recycled materials, contributing to its sustainability profile and making it a suitable choice for eco-conscious building projects.
In a detailed account from a production builder, Boral TruExterior trim was used for fascia, soffits, and corner boards. For the fascia, a 1×8 and a 1×4 shadow board were used to add dimension and depth. The soffits were composed of 1×12 boards on the non-vented sides and a combination of two 1x5s with a vent strip in the middle for the eaves. These dimensions are consistent with traditional wood trim and provide a familiar aesthetic to homeowners and builders alike.
One of the key advantages of using Boral TruExterior trim is that it requires no special tooling for installation. Standard tools such as a chop saw, table saw, and air compressor can be used, although it is important to regularly clean the tools to prevent damage from the fine dust produced during cutting. This fine dust can accumulate in saw blades and other machinery, potentially reducing tool life and cutting accuracy.
The builder also noted that screwing and plugging the trim pieces added a polished look and was a time-efficient method compared to other trim installation techniques. Additionally, the cut ends of the trim did not require priming, according to the product literature, which can save time and labor during the finishing stages of the project.
Tooling and Safety Considerations
Working with Boral siding and trim requires attention to tool maintenance and safety practices. As noted in the builder’s experience, the fine dust generated during cutting can be particularly abrasive and damaging to cutting tools. This dust can embed itself in the blades and bearings of tools like chop saws and table saws, leading to premature wear and reduced cutting efficiency.
To mitigate this, it is recommended to have an air compressor on site for regular cleaning of tools and cutting surfaces. This helps to remove dust buildup and maintain tool performance. Additionally, using a dust collection system or wearing appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), such as respirators and eye protection, is essential to ensure the safety of workers during cutting and installation.
The use of a sharp, high-quality cutting blade is also important for achieving clean, precise cuts. Dull blades can cause splintering or chipping at the cut edges, which can affect the final appearance of the siding and trim. Builders are advised to inspect blades regularly and replace them as needed to maintain cutting quality.
Real-World Installation Insights
Real-world installation experiences provide valuable insights into the practical aspects of working with Boral siding and trim. According to one builder’s account, the process of installing Boral TruExterior trim was comparable in time and effort to traditional wood trim work. The trim was cut, screwed, and plugged with the same level of precision, and the final result was described as looking "very sharp," indicating a high-quality finish.
The builder also noted that the material’s consistency and ease of use made it a preferred choice for high-end contractors, who are often looking for materials that offer both performance and aesthetics. This suggests that Boral TruExterior is not only suitable for standard applications but can also be used in projects where a premium finish is desired.
In addition, the product’s ability to be installed without the need for priming the cut ends was a notable benefit, as it reduced the number of steps required in the finishing process. This can be particularly advantageous in large-scale projects where time and labor efficiency are critical.
Product Availability and Customization
Boral products are available through a network of distributors and suppliers across the United States, and availability can vary based on location. Some builders have noted that high-end contractors tend to use Boral products exclusively, which suggests that the product is gaining traction in the market and is becoming a standard option in certain regions.
For builders and architects looking to explore Boral’s product offerings, it is recommended to contact the manufacturer or a local distributor to obtain the most up-to-date information on product availability, technical specifications, and installation guidelines. Some manufacturers also offer location-specific customization options, such as color or finish variations, which can be tailored to the specific needs of a project.
Best Practices for Installation
Based on the insights provided, the following best practices can be recommended for the installation of Boral siding and trim:
Follow Manufacturer Guidelines: Always refer to the latest installation instructions provided by the manufacturer. These guidelines are updated to reflect new product developments, installation techniques, and best practices.
Use Proper Substrate: Determine whether furring is necessary based on the product, climate, and wall assembly. In some cases, direct installation over rigid foam and house wrap is acceptable, but this should be confirmed with the manufacturer.
Maintain Tools: Regularly clean cutting tools with an air compressor to prevent dust buildup. This helps maintain tool performance and ensures clean, accurate cuts.
Use Appropriate Safety Equipment: Wear a respirator, eye protection, and other PPE when cutting Boral products to protect against fine dust and flying debris.
Cut with Sharp Blades: Use high-quality, sharp blades to achieve clean, precise cuts. Dull blades can lead to splintering and affect the final appearance.
Avoid Priming Cut Ends: According to the product literature, cut ends do not require priming, which can save time during the finishing process.
Plan for Aesthetic Finish: Consider screwing and plugging trim pieces to achieve a polished look. This technique is both practical and visually appealing.
Coordinate with Suppliers: Work with local distributors to ensure product availability and to receive any location-specific recommendations or customizations.
Conclusion
Boral siding and trim offer a durable, sustainable, and aesthetically pleasing alternative to traditional wood products. The installation process is relatively straightforward, and with proper planning and technique, builders can achieve excellent results. While the material shares similarities with wood in terms of workability and appearance, it also offers distinct advantages such as resistance to rot, minimal maintenance requirements, and a high recycled content.
Whether installed vertically without furring or used for trim work such as fascia and soffits, Boral products provide a reliable and versatile option for a wide range of building applications. By following manufacturer guidelines, using appropriate tools and safety equipment, and adhering to best practices, builders can ensure a high-quality installation that meets both functional and aesthetic expectations.
For those considering Boral for their next project, the insights provided by real-world builders and the product’s technical specifications serve as a valuable resource for making informed decisions.