This article details the installation requirements for LP® SmartSide® 38 Series Strand Substrate Vertical Siding when used in a Board & Batten application. The information provided is based on technical documentation from LP Corporation and outlines specific guidelines for substrate, siding application, fastener types, and finishing procedures. This guidance is intended for professional installers and experienced DIY users.
Substrate Requirements
LP SmartSide vertical siding requires installation over a minimum 7/16 inch Category wood structural panel possessing an APA Trademark and adhering to either the DOC PS 1 or PS 2 consensus standard. An exception to this requirement is the use of LP® FlameBlock® Fire-Rated OSB Sheathing. Proper substrate preparation is crucial for a successful and warranted installation.
Siding and Batten Span Limitations
Vertical siding and battens are limited to spanning a single plate-to-plate distance. This restriction is due to potential plate shrinkage. Each vertical application should not exceed the distance between one floor to the ceiling, or from the floor to the top of a gable. Figures 5a and 5b (referenced in the documentation) provide visual representations of these limitations. Vertical siding must not be installed horizontally.
Batten Specifications
Battens used in conjunction with LP SmartSide vertical siding must have a minimum width of 0.5 x 1.5 inches (13 x 38 mm) actual dimensions. Caution is advised when selecting battens less than 2.5 inches (64 mm) wide, as they may not adequately conceal nail heads on the vertical siding. Visible nail heads not covered by battens are considered an aesthetic issue and are not covered under the LP SmartSide Limited Warranty.
Drainage and Housewrap
Installation must occur over a non-compressible, drainable housewrap. This is essential to provide proper drainage behind the siding, preventing moisture buildup and potential damage. The documentation emphasizes the importance of this drainage layer.
Finishing and Painting
All field cuts and exposed ends of the LP SmartSide vertical siding must be primed and painted following the paint manufacturer’s instructions. This protects the cut edges from moisture intrusion and ensures a consistent finish.
Siding Spacing
A minimum spacing of 3/16 inch (5 mm) must be maintained between vertical siding boards. This spacing allows for expansion and contraction due to temperature and humidity changes, preventing buckling or warping of the siding.
Fastener Specifications
Specific fastener requirements must be followed to ensure proper adhesion and maintain the warranty. The minimum fastener type is corrosion-resistant, such as hot-dip galvanized (ASTM A153) or an equivalent. Ring shank nails with a shank diameter of 0.092 inch are required. The fastener length must be sufficient to fully penetrate the wood structural panel sheathing by at least 1/4 inch (6 mm), ensuring the ring shanks fully engage the sheathing. Caution is advised to select a fastener length that will not damage any wiring or utilities within the wall assembly.
Available Product Literature
LP Corporation provides a range of product literature, including safety data sheets, installation instructions, and warranty information. Available documents include the LP® SmartSide® Safety Data Sheet, LP® TopNotch® 350 Durable Sub-Flooring Installation Instructions, and ExpertFinish Care & Maintenance Instructions. Technical Notes (TN) and Technical Bulletins (TB) are also available, covering specific applications and residue removal guidelines.
Additional Considerations
The documentation references several other LP products, including LP NovaCore® Thermal Insulated Sheathing, LP WeatherLogic® Air & Water Barrier, and LP TechShield® Radiant Barrier Sheathing. Installation instructions and safety data sheets are available for these products as well. The documentation also lists PEFC Chain of Custody Certificates for North America. LP offers shed assembly instructions for both the Appleton 8'x10' Hip Roof Shed and the Loblolly Lane 10'x12' Hip Roof Shed. LP SmartSide Brushed Smooth Trim Sales Sheet and technical notes regarding siding installed with metal frame trim systems and HUD MR# 1318e are also available.
Tools and Materials
Installation of LP® SmartSide® requires specific tools and materials. Recommended tools include a circular saw, framing square, hammer, ladder or scaffolding, pencil, power miter saw, pneumatic nail gun, pry bar, and safety goggles. Necessary materials include caulking (exterior grade), exterior paint, siding nails, wood siding, and wood trim boards. Proper preparation with the correct tools and materials is essential for a successful installation.
Installation Steps Overview
The documentation highlights the importance of following a specific sequence of steps for proper installation. The initial step involves installing flashing and sealant around windows, doors, and other openings. Subsequent steps, not detailed in the provided documentation, would involve the actual siding and batten application, ensuring adherence to the spacing and fastener requirements outlined above.
Warranty Information
LP® SmartSide® products offer a 50-year limited warranty, which is longer than many other fiber cement product warranties. However, it is crucial to note that visible nail heads not concealed by battens are not covered under the warranty. Proper installation, following the guidelines provided in the technical documentation, is essential to maintain warranty coverage. The LP SmartSide ExpertFinish Limited Warranty is available through the Certified Installer Program.
Conclusion
The successful installation of LP® SmartSide® 38 Series Strand Substrate Vertical Siding in a Board & Batten application relies on strict adherence to the manufacturer’s guidelines. These guidelines cover substrate preparation, siding and batten span limitations, fastener specifications, finishing procedures, and drainage requirements. Proper installation not only ensures the aesthetic appeal and protective qualities of the siding but also maintains the validity of the product warranty.