As you consider replacing your home’s siding and research different options, you might come across the family of composite siding products. So, what exactly is engineered wood siding, and is it a good choice for your Nebraska home?
Below, our team from Nelson Contracting, your go-to siding experts with over 20 years of experience serving Lincoln and Omaha, NE, discusses everything you need to know about engineered lumber siding. When you’re ready to upgrade your siding to an engineered option, call us at (402) 464-2418 to schedule your free quote.
Engineered Wood Siding: What Is It?
You may have heard of engineered wood siding manufacturers like James Hardie or LP Smartside. Engineered wood siding is an alternative to traditional timber products. The manufacturing process combines strands of wood fibers with resin composite through extreme pressure and heat to create a fully bound product that resembles wood while offering far more durability, longevity, and convenience for homeowners. Manufactured wood siding features a water-resistant wax finish and a zinc borate treatment to prevent water absorption, rot, mold growth, fungal decay, and other problems that can occur with traditional wood siding.
You may hear engineered wood siding referred to by numerous names in the industry, including the following:
- Composite wood siding
- Synthetic wood siding
- Engineered wood cladding
The Solution to the Pitfalls of Traditional Wood Siding
As mentioned previously, traditional wood siding has its downfalls. While traditional wood may be one of the most attractive, classic building materials, it requires heavy maintenance, costs, and risks. In a climate like Nebraska, you may frequently face issues like rot, wood decay, pest infestations, fungal growth, board damage from storms, and more.
Why Choose Engineered Wood Siding?
Engineered timber siding solves many of the problems that arise when using traditional wood, allowing you to enjoy the following benefits:
Easier Upkeep
While traditional wood siding requires frequent maintenance, painting, re-sealing, re-caulking, and damage repairs, engineered solutions rarely require such upkeep. You may need to refresh the paint every 10 years or so if your home sits in direct sunlight, but that’s typically all.
Excellent Durability
Engineered wood siding contains a highly advanced blend of materials built to withstand practically all types of weather. You can enjoy resistance against:
- Water and rain
- Hail
- Snow and ice
- Wind
- Pests
- Mold and mildew
- Fungus
Because engineered wood siding does not absorb water, you don’t need to worry about warping over time or the health risks of mold growth. You can also rest easy knowing that the chances of an interior leak are minimal, assuming your contractors install the siding correctly.
Cost Effectiveness
Real timber comes at an excessively high cost, especially when choosing higher-quality grades for better longevity. For the same average lifespan (or better), you can select engineered wood siding, providing far better durability at a lower cost. Over time, you’ll save money by reducing maintenance and repair expenses.
Versatility
Manufacturers design engineered wood siding to look like real wood, but you can select from numerous colors, grains, textures, and patterns to achieve just about any look you desire. When choosing real wood, your options will be a bit more limited. You can bring your coastal cabin to life or create a modern oasis with engineered materials.
Eco-Friendliness
Engineered wood comes from recycled materials, offering a sustainable solution that can lower your carbon footprint. Since the manufacturers source responsible products, you won’t have to worry about negatively impacting the environment.
Are You Ready To Install Engineered Wood Siding?
Now that you know about engineered wood siding, you can upgrade your home to this modern, durable solution with one of our great brands, including Ply Gem, Norandex, or CertainTeed. Call Nelson Contracting in Lincoln and Omaha, NE, today at (402) 464-2418 for your free quote.
