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.
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 · 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.