Siding & Trim · June 13, 2024
Low-Maintenance Siding Options: TruExterior and LP SmartSide
Define low maintenance for the project
The phrase can mean fewer repainting cycles, simpler washing, or resistance to moisture and everyday impacts. Vinyl, metal, fiber cement, and engineered siding each make different tradeoffs. Ask how the owner expects to care for the exterior and what installers already know how to handle.
Two distinct alternatives
TruExterior uses a composite formulation made with fly ash and polymers. LP SmartSide is an engineered wood siding treated for resistance to moisture, decay, and insects. Both are offered in exterior profiles, but the installation requirements, finish options, and product approvals are specific to each line.
Make an informed comparison
Compare the installed cost, desired wood appearance, length and profile availability, fastening and finishing steps, exposure conditions, and written warranty. Product instructions should govern details near grade, at cut edges, and around openings. Talk with an SBP branch about the lines available locally before specifying a finish.
Siding & Trim · June 13, 2024
LP ExpertFinish: A Great Alternative to Prefinished Fiber Cement Siding
Why prefinished siding deserves a look
The exterior finish is a consequential part of a building schedule. A factory-finished option can eliminate a separate painting step, give buyers a consistent color, and simplify planning when labor and weather windows are tight. LP ExpertFinish is one such option for projects that would otherwise consider painted fiber cement.
How the materials differ
Fiber cement combines cement, sand, and cellulose fiber. LP SmartSide uses engineered wood strands with protective treatments; ExpertFinish adds a factory-applied finish to that siding system. Appearance, handling weight, installation details, available profiles, and local supply all matter more than any single headline comparison.
Questions to settle before ordering
Confirm the profile and color, the manufacturer's fastening and clearance instructions, how cut ends and joints are handled, and the current finish and substrate warranties. Review the complete product documentation for the selected SKU. SBP's siding and trim teams can help identify options available in your market.
Decking & Railing · May 8, 2024
Sleek Wild Hog Deck Railing for Modern Decks
A more open deck edge
A railing has to contribute to the deck's safety while shaping how the space feels. Welded wire panels offer a finer visual pattern than conventional wood pickets, helping maintain views across a yard or landscape. Wild Hog panels bring that modern look to compatible railing assemblies.
Where the panels work
The panels can be paired with a suitable post and rail system for decks and stairs. Similar metal mesh can also serve in selected garden or screening applications, subject to the intended product use. A dark finish can recede visually against a planted background or complement composite decking.
Check the complete assembly
Railing compliance depends on the full installed system, not just the infill. Verify local code requirements, span limits, post spacing, fastening, corrosion exposure, and the manufacturer's instructions before specifying a layout. Your SBP branch can help you review available railing and decking products.
Siding & Trim · May 8, 2024
Royal PVC 101: Siding, Boards and Trim with a Modern Material Marvel
What cellular PVC can do
PVC is used in exterior siding, boards, sheets, and trim where a consistent manufactured profile and low routine maintenance are priorities. It offers an alternative to wood for details that are exposed to weather and need a crisp, repeatable finish.
Think beyond one trim board
Projects may call for window casing, corner trim, fascia, soffits, moulding, or larger sheets for custom details. Profile, width, thickness, texture, and color should be selected as a system so adjoining pieces look intentional. Royal's product families include siding and trim choices for several architectural styles.
Plan the installation
Thermal movement, fastening, adhesives, and any paint choice deserve attention. Use the current product instructions for spacing and attachment rather than assuming PVC behaves exactly like lumber. Review available profiles and lead times with an SBP branch before finalizing a material schedule.
Specialty Lumber · May 8, 2024
Everything to Know About Cedar Lumber and Its Various Building Applications
Where cedar fits
Western Red Cedar brings natural grain and color to a wide range of residential and light commercial work. It is commonly selected for siding, decking, exterior trim, soffits, interior paneling, and exposed architectural details. Its natural resistance to decay and insects makes it attractive for outdoor applications, though design and care still matter.
Choose the right form
Boards can provide window and door trim, fascia, and other finish details. Decking boards support outdoor living areas. Pattern stock such as tongue and groove can create wall or ceiling surfaces. Bevel and channel profiles offer different siding expressions, while larger timbers can become visible beams or other substantial accents.
Specify for the application
Appearance grade, dimensions, profile, finish, and local climate should be considered together. Plan for the manufacturer's installation guidance and an appropriate maintenance schedule to preserve the desired look. Availability varies by branch; an SBP team can help match cedar products to the project.
Decking & Railing · December 16, 2023
The Ultimate Guide To Trex Composite Decking
Why builders consider composite
Composite decking offers an alternative to pressure-treated wood when homeowners prioritize color consistency and less routine upkeep. Many boards combine reclaimed wood fiber and plastic with a protective outer layer. Compare total installed cost and expected maintenance over time, not board price alone.
Build the whole deck system
A finished design includes board profile and color, edge details, fasteners, stairs, and railing. Grooved boards can support compatible hidden fasteners; solid boards may be used where a finished edge or stair detail is required. Trex also offers related railing and under-deck water-management products for certain designs.
Care and selection
Cleaning remains part of ownership, even for low-maintenance boards. Follow the current care guide for the exact Trex line, including any pressure-washer limits. Check color and stock samples in the intended light, review installation and warranty documents, and ask a local SBP branch which lines are available.