LP Smart Siding is a popular engineered wood siding product designed to combine the natural aesthetic of wood with enhanced durability and low-maintenance properties. It is particularly favored for its SmartGuard treatment, which includes zinc borate, resins, waxes, and overlay layers to protect against moisture, pests, and weather extremes. For professional installers and advanced DIY users, understanding the proper installation techniques is essential to ensure the product performs optimally and remains under warranty.
This article provides a detailed overview of the installation process for LP Smart Siding, focusing on expert finish applications. The information is drawn exclusively from official installation documents, product manuals, and user reports, ensuring accuracy and adherence to manufacturer specifications.
Overview of LP Smart Siding
LP Smart Siding is composed of wood fibers bound together with resins and treated with zinc borate to resist insect infestation and fungal growth. It is available in various styles, including panel, vertical, lap, shingles, shakes, and trim components. The product is lightweight yet robust, making it suitable for both residential and commercial projects.
A key advantage of LP Smart Siding is its low maintenance requirements. Once installed, it only needs an occasional cleaning with a soft brush and mild detergent. Additionally, it comes with factory-applied finishes that resist fading, ensuring long-term visual appeal.
For users considering LP Smart Siding, it is important to note that proper installation is critical to maintaining the product's performance and warranty. According to the manufacturer, the siding must be installed using recommended fastening methods, furring strip configurations, and framing spacing to ensure structural integrity and compliance.
Installation Requirements and Framing Considerations
One of the primary factors influencing the installation method is the framing configuration. LP Smart Siding recommends a minimum of 16-inch on-center stud spacing for most applications. However, in certain cases—such as when using rigid foam insulation on the exterior of the sheathing—additional considerations must be made.
According to LP's official installation documents, when using rigid foam insulation greater than 1 inch in thickness, furring strips must be installed to provide proper support and ventilation. Specifically, 1.5-inch by 3.5-inch furring strips are recommended. This ensures that the siding is properly ventilated and that the structure remains within warranty compliance.
An example from a user report highlights this requirement: A homeowner in Southwest Virginia was planning to install 1.5 to 2 inches of EPS rigid foam on 2×6 studs spaced 24 inches apart. They intended to use 3/4-inch by 4-inch plywood furring strips before applying LP SmartSide lap siding. However, after consulting LP support, they were informed that the recommended furring strip for foam greater than 1 inch in thickness is 1.5-inch by 3.5-inch. This configuration would require a 2×4 stud for every 2×6 stud in the wall, increasing both material cost and wall thickness.
The user also noted that LP's installation instructions specify 16-inch on-center spacing for fastening when using furring strips over foam. This requirement is critical for maintaining the structural integrity of the siding and ensuring compliance with warranty terms.
Step-by-Step Installation Process for Expert Finish
LP Smart Siding is available in prefinished and unfinished varieties. For expert finish applications, the following steps should be followed to ensure a professional and durable installation.
1. Prepare the Substrate
Before installing LP Smart Siding, it is essential to prepare the underlying structure. This includes ensuring that the wall sheathing is clean, dry, and free of debris. The sheathing should also be in good condition, with any damaged or warped sections repaired or replaced.
For applications involving foam insulation, the insulation should be installed before the furring strips. This allows for proper ventilation and support for the siding.
2. Install Furring Strips
Furring strips are used to create a nailing surface for the siding and to allow for proper ventilation. The size and spacing of the furring strips depend on the thickness of the foam insulation and the type of siding being installed.
As previously discussed, when using foam insulation greater than 1 inch in thickness, 1.5-inch by 3.5-inch furring strips are recommended. These should be installed at 16-inch on-center spacing to provide adequate support.
For thinner foam applications or when installing directly over conventional sheathing, 3/4-inch by 4-inch furring strips may be used. These should also be installed at 16-inch on-center spacing.
It is important to note that furring strips must be installed with care to avoid warping or twisting. This can be achieved by using high-quality lumber and ensuring that the strips are properly dried before installation.
3. Install the Siding
Once the furring strips are in place, the siding can be installed. LP Smart Siding should be installed with the recommended fastening method, which typically involves using 8d nails or screws. The fasteners should be spaced according to the manufacturer’s specifications to ensure a secure and durable installation.
For lap siding, the overlap between boards should be maintained at the recommended width to ensure a uniform appearance and to prevent water infiltration. It is also important to stagger the joints between boards to enhance the visual appeal and structural integrity of the siding.
When installing prefinished siding, care should be taken to avoid damaging the factory-applied finish. This includes avoiding the use of excessive force during installation and ensuring that the fasteners are aligned properly.
4. Install Trim, Fascia, and Soffit
Trim, fascia, and soffit are essential components of any siding installation, as they provide a finished look and help to protect the structure from water damage. LP Smart Siding offers a range of trim options that are designed to complement the siding and provide a seamless appearance.
When installing trim, it is important to follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for fastening and spacing. This ensures that the trim remains secure and that it does not warp or sag over time.
Fascia is typically installed along the bottom of the roof overhang and should be aligned with the siding to create a clean and professional appearance. Soffit, which is installed beneath the fascia, should also be installed with care to ensure that it provides proper ventilation and does not trap moisture.
Warranty and Compliance Considerations
LP Smart Siding comes with a manufacturer’s warranty that covers both the product and, in some cases, the labor costs. To ensure that the warranty remains valid, it is essential to follow the manufacturer’s installation guidelines and to use certified contractors for the work.
According to the source material, LP Smart Siding offers an extended warranty option that provides additional protection for up to five years. This extended warranty covers 100% of labor and product costs and is available through LP Certified contractors.
To qualify for the warranty, the installation must be performed by a certified contractor who follows the manufacturer’s guidelines. This includes using the correct fastening methods, furring strip configurations, and framing spacing.
In addition to the warranty, it is important to ensure that the installation complies with local building codes and regulations. This may include requirements related to insulation, ventilation, and moisture management.
Maintenance and Longevity
One of the key benefits of LP Smart Siding is its low-maintenance requirements. Once installed, the siding requires only occasional cleaning to maintain its appearance. This includes using a soft brush and mild detergent to remove dirt and debris.
The factory-applied finish on the siding is designed to resist fading and chalking, ensuring that the siding retains its color and appearance over time. However, it is important to avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, as these can damage the finish and reduce the lifespan of the siding.
In addition to regular cleaning, it is important to inspect the siding periodically for signs of damage or wear. This includes checking for loose fasteners, warped boards, or areas where water may be accumulating. Any issues should be addressed promptly to prevent further damage and to ensure the longevity of the siding.
Conclusion
LP Smart Siding is a durable and low-maintenance siding option that is well-suited for a wide range of applications. However, to ensure optimal performance and compliance with warranty terms, it is essential to follow the manufacturer’s installation guidelines.
The installation process involves preparing the substrate, installing furring strips, and fastening the siding according to the recommended methods. Additional considerations, such as framing spacing and insulation thickness, must also be taken into account to ensure structural integrity and compliance.
By following the manufacturer’s recommendations and using certified contractors, homeowners and installers can ensure a high-quality installation that provides long-term protection and aesthetic appeal.