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Frequently Asked Questions
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Everything you want to know about Siding
- Can I install siding myself?
- Where can I find a competent siding installer?
- How long is the siding warranted for?
- Do I ever have to paint my siding again?
- Does it come with matching trim?
- Does CertainTeed siding have seams?
- How much does it cost to side a home?
Q. Can I install siding myself?
Installing siding is not a simple "do it yourself job" and is better left to siding installation professionals who have the necessary skills and equipment to do the job right the first time.
Q. Where can I find a competent siding installer?
Your first resource for a recommendation should be family, friends and neighbors who have had similar work done for them. A local CertainTeed siding distributor can also help you locate reputable siding contractors. Then, after a first meeting it's a good idea to ask the contractor for other references you can contact.
Q. How long is the siding warranted for?
CertainTeed vinyl sidings, with the exception of Southampton and ValueTech, are warranted for the lifetime of the original owner against manufacturing defects. Upon transfer of the property the siding is warranted from the date of installation for fifty years. Check the warranty section of this web page for complete details and limitations.
Q. Do I ever have to paint my siding again?
No! CertainTeed siding is virtually maintenance free. The most you ever have to do is give your home a washin with soap and water once or twice a year.
Q. Does it come with matching trim?
CertainTeed offers the widest variety of trim pieces in the industry. Everything from function utility trims to substantial wide trims resembling dimensional lumber, fluted cornerposts and decorative crown molding for window headers. Most items are available in all CertainTeed colors
Q. Does CertainTeed siding have seams?
CertainTeed siding is generally available in 12' to 12.5' lengths, so it needs to be overlapped at the ends to cover an entire wall. CertainTeed sidings are designed to provide a virtually seamless appearance and a good siding installer will lap you siding away from traffic to further minimize the laps.
Q. How much does it cost to side a home?
Because we offer sidings at a number of price points to fits any need and any budget, and because every home and siding job is unique, there is no way to answer this question. The best thing to do is invite a siding contractor to your home so he can measure it accurately and discuss other needs you may have.
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Q. How does the product handle in the field? How is the weight relative to other siding products?
WeatherBoards FiberCement siding is sufficiently flexible to allow easy handling during application. A single worker can carry 1 to 3 pieces. Two workers can carry 3 to 6 pieces with minimal effort. WeatherBoards FiberCement siding should always be carried "on edge." WeatherBoards FiberCement siding weighs approximately 2.5 lbs./ sq. ft.; it is therefore heavier than vinyl and aluminum siding. However, one 12’ piece of WeatherBoards FiberCement siding is equivalent in weight to a 16’ piece of hardboard siding.
Q. What is the most cost and time efficient method for cutting WeatherBoards FiberCement siding? What method will provide the smoothest cut?
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• Carbide tipped conventional power saw blade?
• Masonry abrasive blade?
• Diamond blade?
• Shear-type tool? |
Many installers prefer to use a 7-1/4" circular power saw, with a continuous-rim diamond blade (dry-cut). This combination delivers a high quality cut at a productive speed. Four to five pieces can be cut at once with this type of blade.
Circular saws can also be used with either conventional carbide tipped or abrasive type blades. Abrasive blades require more "elbow grease" and, as expected, "grind" through the board. The resulting cut is not as smooth as the carbide or diamond blades. These blades, although economical, deliver limited performance when cutting fibercement siding.
Be advised that fibercement will dull carbide blades in a shorter period than diamond blades. The installer can expect to use 5+ carbide blades per average residential installation. For speed of cut, smoothness of cut, and effort required, carbide blades outperform abrasive blades. Installers report diamond blades perform satisfactorily for 10 or more residential installations. Power miter saws can also be used with excellent results when equipped with diamond-type blades.
Saw blade manufacturers are developing tools especially for use with fibercement siding. Prototype blades have been tested in the field with outstanding results. The unique blade designs and tooth combinations have substantially improved the performance of these experimental blades. The ease and speed of cut is much improved with these blades when compared to conventional carbide or diamond rimmed blades. According to manufacturers, these tools should be available in the near future at affordable prices.
Mechanical shear tools are also available for cutting fibercement siding. These tools cut with relatively little effort, less noise, and essentially no dust. The smoothness of the cut is not comparable to the cut of a diamond blade, yet the cut is in the acceptable range. On smooth beaded and textured beaded products, best results are achieved with circular saws. If shear-type tools are used on beaded siding, the siding should be cut face down with the bead toward you.
Q. How do I rip or cut the WeatherBoards FiberCement siding lengthwise to accommodate areas over doors and windows?
A. WeatherBoards FiberCement siding can be ripped lengthwise both partially or at its full length with no adverse effects. A 1-1/2" wide starter strip can be ripped and installed with no problems. Note that lap siding and cut strips must be adequately supported by saw bucks or with a similar support device. The cutting area should be a minimum of 8’ to 10’, preferably 12’, on which to satisfactorily cut the siding. This is generally good field practice when installing any type of lap siding. Notched and/or narrow pieces can be handled and installed if reasonable care is taken.
Q. How bad is the dust problem when cutting fibercement siding? Will breathing the dust cause health problems? What is in the dust?
The use of dust masks and eye protection is highly recommended. As discussed, the shear-type tools emit virtually no dust. Diamond rim and carbide tipped blades will create a noticeable amount of dust, although not as much as abrasive-type blades. In the outdoors, the dust that is created is not overbearing, but quite evident. The prototype blades discussed earlier create the least amount of dust among the circular tools due to their innovative design. Some installers accustomed to working with fibercement siding will set up a small fan near the cutting area to dissipate the dust.
Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) are available upon request. When fibercement siding is cut, drilled, or sanded, silica dust will be generated. Sustained inhalation of silica and silica quartz dust can pose health risks. Cutting of fibercement should be performed outdoors. If cutting is done indoors, a dust collection system and adequate ventilation are imperative. Workers should always wear dust masks when working with this product.
Q. Is this dust and grit going to cause premature wear on power saws?
It is uncertain, but dust is inevitably going to enter the intake of compressors and electric motors on saws. Dust will also accumulate on saws and nail guns. Avoid problems by thoroughly cleaning nail guns and saws with compressed air at the end of the workday.
Wall preparation and sheathings
WeatherBoards FiberCement siding may be installed in a conventional face nail application with framing spaced up to 24" oc, or in a hidden nail fashion with framing spaced a maximum of 16" oc.
When installing fibercement, consideration must be given to the type of sheathing used. When hand nailing or pneumatic nailing, best results are achieved when the fibercement is applied over plywood or OSB sheathings. Builder board-type sheathings are also acceptable. Caution should be used when installing over foam-type sheathings. Pneumatic nailing is highly recommended when installing over foam. Due to the compression and general "soft" nature of the foam sheathing, distortion of the siding and excessive penetration of the nails may occur. A weather-resistive barrier such as a "house-wrap" or 15 lbs. felt paper is required between the siding and the studs or wood sheathing.
Fastening; Hand nailing; Pneumatic nailing
When hand nailing, the installer should avoid overdriving the nail and seat the bottom of the nail head flush with the surface of the siding. This will allow the nail to retain its maximum holding power and avoid distortion or cracking. When installing rake angle cuts, pre-drilling may be necessary in some cases such as in a hand nailing, face nail application. There must be a solid framing member behind the siding or sheathing material in all applications.
When pneumatic nailing to a solid backing such as plywood, OSB, or directly to studs (where code permits), best results are achieved with the air pressure set at approx. 80 to 85 pounds or to job site conditions Higher pressures usually result in unacceptable countersunk nail heads. Again, pneumatic nailing is strongly recommended and may be the only successful method for fastening the siding over foam sheathing.
A pneumatic nail gun designed for siding applications that accepts a collated, hot dipped galvanized full round head nail (1/4" dia.) is highly recommended. Framing nail guns are not recommended for use with fibercement siding.
Avoid using half-moon type fasteners, as they are subject to over-penetration. Also, the ideal pneumatic nail gun should include a flush mount attachment that will aid in avoiding overdriving nails. Please refer to the applicable WeatherBoards FiberCement application instructions for further information.
Q. What happens if I try to use staples to apply fibercement siding?
Do not use staples to apply fibercement siding! Pneumatic staplers do not deliver sufficient fastening power to hold the fibercement siding. Staples will fail to completely penetrate the siding and usually "brad," or "kink," on the face of the board. Damage to the siding may also occur. The twin points of the staple, the violent bradding and kinking of the staple itself, and the wide, flat plunger of the gun are simply not compatible with fibercement sidings and must not be used.
Q. How does the speed of installation compare to hardboard or other wood sidings?
From field reports and installer feedback, an application of fibercement siding to a structure should be similar to a conventional siding installation. Most installers report a fibercement installation takes only slightly more time than wood or hardboard sidings. Reasonable care must be taken in handling, cutting, and nailing fibercement siding to avoid breakage or marring.
Caulking
Where fibercement siding butts against window and door trim, as well as at inside and outside corners, leave a 1/8" gap, then caulk the gap. If the siding was cut with an abrasive, dry diamond, or carbide tool, remove any dust from the edge, then apply caulk. Caulk should be of high quality and designed for use with wood, metal, and masonry.
Painting/Staining
CertainTeed WeatherBoards is shipped sealed with Certainteed's exclusive FiberTect™ Sealing System, so once installation is complete, the siding is ready for paint or stain. CertainTeed WeatherBoards Siding with the FiberTect Sealing System must be painted within 24 months of installation. Before you paint, wipe the boards clean of residual dust or dirt. Then apply a high quality 100-percent-acrylic paint or stain. Remember ordering siding through CertainTeed's prefinish service is an alternative to field painting.
IMPORTANT: Oil based paints must never be used on FiberCement siding. The high inherent pH of cement retards the curing that makes oil-based paint durable.
Q. Can battens be applied over lap or panel siding?
A. Installing battens over panel siding is a common installation; however, proper application of the caulk is imperative. We do not recommend installing battens over lap siding as this would require a nail 3"- 4" inches length in order to sufficiently penetrate the framing.
Q. Can joint covers be used with WeatherBoards FiberCement if desired by property owner/builder?
We do not require the use of joint covers with WeatherBoards FiberCement siding.
Q. If siding gets wet prior to installation, should the installer proceed with the installation?
When wet, fibercement siding will experience a temporary loss of strength. If saturated, it may become considerably flexible, making installation difficult. Ample drying time should be allowed before attempting installation of the siding. Drying times will vary due to climatic conditions. If the siding is left uncovered and exposed to light rain or moisture from dew, the siding will naturally absorb some moisture. Slight discoloration from exposure to moisture is normal and will quickly disappear.
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Q. I want to re-side my house with vinyl, but I'm confused by all the different brands. What makes Wolverine vinyl siding different?
Some people think all vinyl siding is the same, but it's simply not true! Wolverine is known throughout the siding industry as an innovator. Many examples are shown on these pages. Also, Wolverine offers the broadest selection of siding profiles, finishes, colors, trim and accessories available.
Moreover, Wolverine® is the only brand that offers you:
- First In Product Innovation:
Wolverine Siding Systems leads the industry in innovation with 70% of the industry’s design patents, all conceived to enhance profitability through improved product performance, appearance, or productivity. Wolverine created the first historically accurate Triple 3" clapboard, dutchlap and beaded sidings, the original Restoration® Smooth finish and Restoration Shapes™ rough-hewn cedar shakes panels. Trim products such as corner blocks and rosettes, stepped design cornerposts, coved trim pieces and beaded soffit also demonstrate Wolverine’s innovative replication of historically inspired architectural details.
- Nail-Tight Flex Hem Technology – For The Fastest Installation In The Industry:
Patented SMARTWALL TECHNOLOGY with the nail-tight flexible hem can speed installation by as much as 50%. In addition, the PermaFlex™ suspension cables allow the siding to “float” over imperfections in the wall for a flat, straight appearance. StudNailing™ Indicators help the installer locate studs in 16" OC construction with prominently displayed arrows positioned every 16" on the panel’s locking barrel. Wolverine offers this industry exclusive on Millennium® premium siding, a great product for remodeling, and Encore™ Flex, perfect for new construction projects.
- The Industry’s Strongest Warranty:
Wolverine is the only company with a “Won’t Blow-Off” Warranty, offered on Millennium. Made possible by the SMARTWALL patented nail-tight flexible hem, Millennium has the highest wind load rating in the industry at an incredible 270 mph! In addition, Encore™ Flex, also featuring SMARTWALL, and Restoration Classic with the StormRoll™ Hem and GripLock™ System, have both tested to withstand wind load pressures up to 180 mph.
- Historic & Architectural Integrity:
Because Wolverine’s profiles and finishes faithfully reproduce historic wood siding and trim, they are widely accepted by historic commissions. From Minnesota to Texas, from California to Massachusetts, these architecturally accurate products maintain the look oftraditional wood while offering the practical, low-maintenance qualities ofvinyl. This commitment to produce architectural integrity together with a concerted focus on the development o of programs and materials designed expressly for the architect have established Wolverine as the premier vinyl siding among the specification community.
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Q. Okay, I want Wolverine vinyl siding. What do I do now?
If you aren't already working with a Wolverine siding contractor, call Wolverine's Homeowner Hotline toll-free at 800-823-1488 between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. EST Monday through Friday and follow the directions on line for the name of your local Wolverine distributor. Your distributor will refer you to qualified Wolverine installers in your area.
Q.Do you have any suggestions for choosing a vinyl siding contractor?
The relationship you have with your contractor is an important one. You will want one who is qualified, capable and trustworthy. Here are a few suggestions:
- Just ask. Word-of-mouth is the best advertising. Ask friends, neighbors and relatives. If there's a home you like with vinyl siding in your neighborhood, ask the owners who did the work. Your local Wolverine distributor will also have suggestions. Follow up on the leads they give you.
- Take a look. Ask the installer or contractor for before and after photos of their vinyl siding jobs. Ask for addresses of projects they've done in your area. Take a drive and see their work for yourself.
- Get references. Before signing a contract, get the names of 3 or 4 of the contractor's customers. Call and get their input. Also ask the contractor about awards or endorsements they may have received.
- Check with the Better Business Bureau. If you have any concerns, call your local BBB. They'll be able to tell you if any consumer complaints are on record.
Q.I'm about to have my home re-sided with vinyl. What should I expect? How long does it usually take?
If you've ever painted, you know that the bulk of your time is spent preparing the surface and doing the trim. It's like that with vinyl siding installations, too.
Preparing the Surface. In most cases, your installer will put an insulating board over the existing siding. This substrate provides insulation and a smooth surface for installing your vinyl siding.
Installing the Trim. Next come the corner posts, window and door surrounds, crown molding and other trim elements. With these in place, your contractor will install a starter strip which serves as a "hook" for the siding.
Installing the Siding. At this point, they will begin to install the siding panels, working upwards from the bottom of each wall.
While most jobs take about a week to complete, you should check with your contractor for specifics. The time required will depend on the size and condition ofyour home, as well as the amount of detailing to be done.
Q.What if I don't find the answers I'm looking for on this website?
If you have more questions for our Expert, call the Wolverine Homeowner Hotline at 800-823-1488 between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. EST Monday through Friday.
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