Do you want to build a new modern home with contemporary architecture by using longboard sidings but don’t know how to install them? Don’t worry; we are here to help you with the best guide for installing longboard siding.
What are Longboard Sidings?
As you know, longboard siding is a modern construction material made from various materials, including ACM panels and Wood. These functional and beautiful materials are excellent for residential and commercial facilities.
The primary application of these metal materials is creating durable, beautiful, and functional building cladding. What is cladding? The building cladding is a protective layer of any home that protects the structure from harsh weather conditions. In this case, longboards are one of the best choices.
Longboard siding that is made from the aluminum composite panel is available in two finishes which are:
- Wood Pattern
- Solid Colors
Advantages of Installing Longboard Siding
Installing longboard siding will bring you a lot of benefits. Some of the primary advantages of longboards are:
- Installing longboard siding will increase the value of your home.
- Longboards offer a stable and durable facade.
- There are various finishes available for longboard sidings.
- Architects can create unique designs with longboards.
- Metal longboards are immune to warping, fading, and even rotting.
- ACM longboards do not require much maintenance.
- Installing longboard siding will increase the energy efficiency of your home.
Now let us help you install them properly to create the house of your dreams.
How is Installing Longboard Siding Done?
Although longboards are similar to aluminum siding cladding systems, installing longboard siding is not easy.
Tools Needed for Installing Longboard Siding
Before installing longboard siding, you should get protective equipment and panels. Cutting metal can cause eye injuries, so you should use goggles to protect your eyes.
You will need a compound miter saw, and a regular table saw since you will have to cut the panels during the longboard siding installation process. Additionally, the installation process will require creating holes with a hole saw or a jigsaw.
Considering Expansion and Contraction
When installing longboards, you should consider the panel’s contraction and expansion that can occur due to temperature changes in weather. However, since these panels have quick screen clip ability, they have better contraction and expansion tolerance.
The clips of longboards should be connected to the top section of the panels at a certain distance from the edges. These clips will create the rear ventilation plane and allow the panels to have the freedom for required movement due to contraction and expansion.
How to Fasten the Longboard Panels Firmly?
When installing longboard sidings, it is crucial to install all the components and the strips at first. You can fasten the starter clips with quick clips. But, the primary part should be attached with solid screws without quick fasteners.
Most metal longboard suppliers provide the panels with A and B pieces packaging, and you should install them in the exact way you bring them out of the boxes. The pieces should allow you to create a repeating pattern while creating a particular feel to offer a modern and aesthetic appearance.
For exterior cladding installation, you should fix the starter strip with the clips to maintain a distance between the panels and the main wall. Then install a second screw to fasten the strips to the walls firmly. This you do to increase the weight supporting property of the cladding system.
Finish Installing Longboards
After you install the primary longboard, you should install the finishing caps. However, it is crucial to use touch-up pens on the panel’s edge before installing them to conceal any visible areas. Then insert j-tracks into the course of the longboard that runs beside the windows of a wall. After inserting j-tracks, align the panel with the finishing county right below the window.
The panel alignment will conceal the cut edge of the cap and provide a clean look for your home’s facade. You can install the boards between two pieces of j-tracks to provide minimum space for expansion. However, if you want to install your longboard with the best results, you should insert the board into the J trim thoroughly on one side, and then the other side of the trim should be cleared. Then center the panel for efficient placement.
Once you install longboard sidings completely, you should install the mill finishes to the base. Then apply the final chemical with a mallet or a tool that will not damage the surface of your panels. Apply them gently but drive the trim firmly into the finishing base.
