FAQs

LP SmartSide siding is considered smart because it resists hail and impact damage better than fiber cement and vinyl siding. It also resists damage from fungal decay and termites. Long lengths mean fewer seams. Every piece is uniform, which reduces waste.

SmartSide siding and trim are considered green because they are made with wood strands rather than solid wood and are treated and finished for a long life.

SmartSide is a borate-treated, oriented strand board (OSB) with a resin-saturated overlay that resembles solid wood siding. It is engineered for easy installation, minimal waste, long life, and problem-free finishing.

SmartSide can be cut and nailed like wood siding. However cut edges must be sealed and minimum clearances must be maintained from roofs, drip flashing and grade.

SmartSide is treated with borate to resist insects. As an engineered product, each piece is of reliable, uniform, knot-free quality. The face is bonded with a water-resistant resin-saturated layer.

Tempered hardboard is made by steaming wood fibers, spraying the slurry into forms and pressing it into panels and boards. The natural lignum resin in the fibers is the only bonding agent. It is formaldehyde and borate free. SmartSide contains wax, borate features a bonded surface layer to resist moisture, insects and fungal decay.

SmartSide is available in cedar texture,  smooth and beaded lap siding and shakes. Vertical panels come in smooth cedar grain, stucco, smooth, and reverse board and batten profiles.

Proper installation is key to SmartSide performance. That includes sealing cut edges, maintaining required clearances from flashing and rooflines, and installing kick out flashing where gutters meet walls.

SmartSide is primed on all six sides.  LP recommends factory finishing where temperature and moisture can be controlled.  Use a certified LP Prefinishing to receive the best finish warranty.

SmartSide carries a limited, pro-rated 50-year warranty against fungal degradation and buckling. The overlay is warrantied against cracking, peeling, separating, chipping, flaking and rupturing. Damage due to hail hits must be from smaller than 1-3/4. -in.-dia. hailstones and exceed ⅜ -in. diameter in size.

When pre-finishing is performed by an LP-authorized pre-finisher, the SmartSide paint is warrantied five years for labor and 15 years for materials.

LP offers a full line of trim and soffit products to complement its siding.

Hoffman Weber installs James Hardie fiber cement siding.

James Hardie is the oldest and most respected manufacturer of fiber cement siding. We trust it will perform as advertised. It has been installed on more than 8 million homes.

James Hardie siding is available in lap, shingle and vertical panels. Lap siding comes in smooth or woodgrain (Cedarmill) and Beaded Cedarmill (woodgrain with a radiused detail along the lower edge of each plank). Shingles are available in staggered and straight edge panels.  Vertical panels come in Cedarmill (woodgrain), stucco, Sierra 8 (woodgrain with vertical grooves to resemble T1-11 plywood), and smooth.

The installed price for James Hardie siding typically is comparable to engineered wood siding, more expensive than vinyl siding and less expensive than brick or synthetic stucco.

James Hardie medium density fiberboard siding contains cement and wood fibers. Specifically, Crystalline Silica (Quartz), Calcium silicate (Hydrate, Calcium Carbonate, Calcium Aluminum Silicate (Hydrate), Cellulose and Carbon Black.

Hardie is a mixture of cement and cellulose wood fibers. It is made by pressing the mixture in forms.

James Hardie siding is made in Illinois, Texas, Florida, and New Mexico. Siding installed in Minnesota typically comes from the plant in Peru, IL.

Hardie siding is primed with a 100 percent acrylic primer at the factory. ColorPlus pre-finishing is said to last three to four times longer than on-site paint.

Hardie siding comes pre-primed or finished in any of 23 standard colors, including dark, neutral, warm, cool, light and fresh palettes.

Yes. All Hardie siding products are spray primed on all sides at the factory. Cut edges are sealed during installation.

Hardie siding is installed with corrosion-resistant galvanized nails.

Hardie siding may be nailed to plywood or OSB sheathing or to properly braced (single-wall-construction) wood or steel framing.

Hardie makes a full line of trim for use at soffits, corners, windows, and doors. It also is compatible with wood, engineered wood, coated aluminum, and vinyl trim products.

Siding will be cut outdoors using power tools equipped with dust collection.

James Hardie siding is durable and resists damage from insects, woodpeckers, and hail.

The wood fibers reinforce the panels and make them lighter and less brittle. The cement provides resistance to impact, insects, woodpeckers, and fire. It is Class-A fire rated. Early fiber cement products contained asbestos fibers. Cellulose fibers are used now. 

No. Hardie siding is impervious to insect damage.

James Hardie siding is impact resistant.

Hardie siding is warrantied against deteriorating when properly installed, primed, finished and maintained. This includes sealing ends cut on the job site and maintaining proper clearances above the landscape, paving, and decking.

James Hardie siding has a 30-year limited lifetime warranty. Prefinished siding carries a 15-year warranty.

You should have no trouble matching the color, texture or profile of your James Hardie product.

James Hardie siding may be installed at any temperature but it should be stored in a warm, protected area so it does not become overly brittle.

In construction, windows are installed before the siding. While replacement windows can be installed after construction, it is preferable to replace windows before installing the new siding for maximum sealing.

James Hardie recommends a mild soap solution and a soft brush to clean siding. It recommends against power washing.

Traditional 3-tab shingles typically are rated to withstand  60-70 MPH wind. Four-tab architectural shingles usually are rated for 110 MPH wind. High-Wind shingles can withstand 130 MPH winds.

Inadequate attic ventilation or excess moisture can deteriorate roof sheathing and shingles from below. Overhanging trees that drop debris and slow drying can lead to moss and mold that can deteriorate roofing. Walking on a roof in extremely hot or cold weather can damage shingles.

For maximum lifespan of an asphalt roof, keep the attic cool. Avoid walking on the roof on extremely hot days to avoid scuffing the surface. Remove debris and treat to aid drying and discourage mold growth.

It is best to remove old shingles before installing new ones. This enables inspection of the roof deck for rot, replacement of the ice and water membrane at the eaves and valleys, reduces weight on the roof structure, and ensures the new shingles lay flat.

Skylights, especially those made with plastic, fail and leak over time. Skylights should be carefully inspected for failed seals, cracks, wood rot and faulting flashing before re-roofing and replaced if they are to last as long as the new roof.

Roofing felt is required under asphalt shingle roofs.

Ice and water membrane should be installed at valleys eaves and along gently sloped roofs. At eaves, it should be installed from the edge of the roof to 2-feet beyond the interior wall

Drip edge flashing helps to move water away from the roof and the trim boards below.

Either valley method is code approved. Because of the volume of water that flows down valleys from the opposite planes, a smooth metal valley flashing with a centerline ridge is most efficiency is durable. Water and ice membrane is installed so it extends 24-in. to both sides of the valley.

Either type of vent is acceptable as long as they are paired with balanced soffit vents.

Depending on how existing gutters are installed, they may need to be removed before re-roofing. New gutters are best installed after a new roof is installed. This prevents the gutters from becoming damaged while removing the old roof and installing the new one. Depending on the condition of the fascia board behind the gutters, the fascia may need to be replaced to ensure a solid mounting surface and effective weatherproofing.

Hoffman Weber installs EDCO, Boral and DECRA brands of steel roofing.  These products resemble architectural shingles, shakes, clay tile, and slate and are available in many colors.

Steel roofing panels are formed from galvanized steel and then coated with PVDF resin and stone granules.

Steel roofing has high (Class 4) hail impact resistance, higher wind resistance (120 mph), longer color and finish retention and warranty.  Steel roofing also transmits less heat and is lighter than slate and tile.

A durable PVDF (Polyvinylidene fluoride) coating is applied to the galvanized steel to prevent rust.

Steel roofs last two to three times as long as other types of roofing. Transferable warranties can be 50 years to life and are not prorated. 

Steel roofing is more expensive than asphalt shingles but less expensive than slate or tile.

Steel roofing noise transmission in rain is comparable to other types of roofs. It can be even quieter when it is installed over solid roof decking.

Steel roofing performs best in high winds when directly fastened to solid decking.  However, installation to battens over solid decking can enhance ventilation and keep attics cooler. Battens enhance ventilation and keep attics cooler.

Energy Star-certified steel roofing that reflects heat is eligible for a 10 percent federal tax credit up to $500.

Stone-coated steel roofing is considered a green building material because it uses 50 percent recycled steel and has an extremely long lifespan.

Cedar shingles are sawn smooth on both faces, tapered to be thinner at the butt and squared off on all four edges (rejoined and rebutted). Roof shakes are split along the woodgrain and are thicker. Some shakes are sawn on one face and split on the other. Shakes come in two standard thicknesses. Medium shakes are ½-in.-thick (nominal) at the butt. Heavy shakes are ¾-in. (nominal) at the butt.

Depending on the thickness and quality of the product, climate and maintenance, a cedar shake roof should last up to 30 years. Thicker, premium shakes tend to last the longest. Keep in mind that the primary waterproofing is from the strips of roofing felt that alternate between each course of shakes or shingles. Assume that water, especially wind-driven rain and snow, will get between and under the shakes. Their primary job is to protect the felt from wind, impact and the sun damaging UV rays. If felt “keyways” are left exposed between the shakes, they will deteriorate and leak.

No. 1 grade heartwood cedar shakes may have up to 20 percent flat grain per bundle. Premium grade shakes are 100 percent vertical grain hardwood. The flat grain is weaker and more likely to split or cup.

Cedar roofing products may be pressure treated with a fire retardant or a mold/mildewcide but not both. Cedar is naturally resistant to insects. To reduce mold and mildew, keep trees trimmed away from the roof to reduce shade and debris and encourage drying airflow.

The Cedar Shake & Shingle Bureau does not recommend or endorse aftermarket fire-retardant applications as an alternative to pressure treating because they do not penetrate as deeply.

Because they are formed from natural wood blocks and lack adhesive tabs, cedar shakes and shingles are not as weathertight as other forms of roofing. While they are in overlapping courses with staggered seams to shed water, their primary purpose is to protect the felt and bituminous membrane underlayment.

Cedar roof shingles and shakes may be installed over spaced or solid decking. Solid decking is preferred in dry climates or where wind driving snow is common. Spaced decking is preferred in high humidity regions because of its enhanced ventilation.

Cedar roofs require more maintenance than other roofs. They should be inspected annually. Mold and mildew can be removed with an oxygen bleach solution.

Cedar is lightweight and naturally resistant to insects.

Cedar is a natural, renewable resource. Red Cedar roof shingles are durable and can be recycled as garden mulch at the end of their life cycle. While labor-intensive to manufacture and install, cedar shingles and shakes require less energy than other roofing materials to produce.

Valleys and ridges are sealed with ice and water membrane and metal flashing.

The National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC) is an independent non-profit organization that sponsors window certification ratings. U-factor is the measure of a window’s ability to resist heat transfer. All-Energy Star-rated windows must display their U-factor rating. According to the EPA, windows range from a low of U .25 to a high of U 1.25. Unlike R-factor, the lower the number the greater the performance. Windows also may be rated for solar heat gain coefficient, air leakage, visible light transmission, and condensation resistance. It’s important to understand that window performance is a measure of the entire window unit, including the frame, sash, and glass -- not just the glass.

If new construction windows are installed, trim will need to be removed. It may or may not be possible to reuse it. If replacement window inserts or sash are installed, interior trim can be retained.

Fiberglass is rigid and resists expansion and contraction, cold and heat conduction, insects and moisture.

We do our best to be present and answer questions during the insurance adjuster’s inspection, but there are times when our schedules do not align.

Actually, it is against the law in most states for a contractor to negotiate with an insurance company on behalf of a policyholder. However, we will make sure that all necessary repairs are considered.

Hoffman Weber’s storm specialists are trained to identify surface damage from severe weather that may not be apparent initially but will continue to deteriorate over time.  These telltale signs of storm damage may not be visible from the ground. Homeowners expose themselves to unnecessary risks when they climb onto their roofs and attempt to photograph storm damage.

Contact Hoffman Weber for a free inspection.

If possible, Hoffman Weber should inspect for storm damage before the insurance inspector so you can share the findings and nothing is missed in his or her settlement offer.

Hoffman Weber will mark and photograph the damage and itemize materials and work needed to restore your home.

We will ask you to sign an agreement that commits you to use Hoffman Weber if we reach an agreement with the insurance company on scope and price.

Supplemental is a settlement for additional work that is identified as required after the initial settlement agreement.

The insurance company will pay you directly and in stages and you will be responsible for paying Hoffman Weber the deductible and balance.

That depends. If you have full replacement value insurance the age of your materials will not matter. Your policy will cover labor and comparable new materials. Without it, the adjuster will depreciate the value based on the age and condition of the materials.

A contractor cannot negotiate with an insurance company on the policyholder’s behalf. However, Hoffman Weber will document all of the work that is required to restore the damage to ensure you receive the best possible settlement.

It is illegal for a contractor to reimburse a homeowner to offset the deductible on an insurance claim.

Most insurance policies stipulate that materials should reasonably match. If the existing product is no longer available or it is too worn to match new materials, you should push for total replacement.

Insurance companies understand that some conditions cannot be assessed until demolition.  If additional damage is discovered, you can submit a claim for supplemental repairs.

Every home and project is different. We can’t recommend the best design and construction solutions until we truly understand your goals, budget, and timetable. Besides, purchasing remodeling and replacement services aren’t like buying a commodity product.  We both want to make sure we are a good fit.

We have found that it is most efficient for all stakeholders and decision-makers to engage in the consultation to everyone’s ideas and concerns regarding style, scope, budget, and calendar can be considered. We value our customers’ time as dearly as our own.

An in-home consultation usually takes an hour or less.

If your project is subject to an insurance claim, we will ask for a commitment to use Hoffman Weber if we can reach an agreement with your insurance carrier. However, if you sign an agreement to pay for a remodeling design, it is your property and you are not obliged to use Hoffman Weber for construction.

Photographs are an excellent tool to document current conditions for use when preparing estimates, submitting insurance claims and developing designs. We manage multiple jobs. Photos help us keep them straight.

We will discuss and agree on a work schedule at contract signing.

We will pick up the job site at the end of each day and do a thorough cleaning when the work is done.

We will discuss placement options for the dumpster with you when preparing our quote. Some communities do not allow dumpsters to be placed on the street or charge a fee. If your driveway is in good condition and we can place the dumpster close to the job site, that is our preference because it reduces time and controls costs. If we must place the dumpster on your lawn there could be a charge to restore the landscaping.  Be sure to let us know if you need access to park in your garage.

Hoffman Weber treats its employees, trade partners and subcontractors with respect and expects high productivity from every member of the crew. As such, restroom facilities must be provided. If a bathroom is not available in the home or business, the cost of a portable toilet will be included in the bill.

Dumpsters are sized for the job and clean construction debris often is recycled. So avoid placing other materials in the dumpster without permission.

Yes. Everyone on your project should be covered by  Worker’s Compensation and liability insurance.

Typically the day your project is completed, our project manager will perform a quality check of the work, and at that time will request the dumpster pickup.

Hoffman Weber or its supplier will return to retrieve extra materials within 1 to 3 weeks, depending on the type of materials.

We routinely order up to 10 percent extra and return unused materials for credits so we don’t run out during the job.  If the leftover material is damaged or removed the cost will be added to the bill.

Upon completion of the project and final payment, Hoffman Weber will mail you a close-out packet with your warranty.

You will be responsible for paying Hoffman Weber directly.

Hoffman Weber will provide you with a signed lien waiver that certifies all suppliers and trade partners have been paid.

Cost-sharing varies by community. Typically, individual owners share the cost of siding common areas and pay for their unit’s percentage of the whole or the overall cost is shared equally among owners. The association may fund the project with an insurance settlement, existing dues revenue, a special assessment or a combination of things.

Hoffman Weber attempts to identify all needed repairs and replacements during the planning phase. If additional damage is discovered during demolition, it will be documented and the expanded project scope will be addressed through change orders.

Faulty siding can cause water infiltration that leads to structural wood rot, carpenter ant infestation, unhealthy mold and water stains on interior surfaces.

Siding work can cause vibrations that dislodge wall hangings and items on shelves against exterior walls. Remove hanging art and mirrors from exterior walls. And make sure bookshelves and furnishings do not touch the exterior walls.

Hoffman Weber may offer a variety of compatible siding colors, profiles, and materials that individual homeowners can choose from for their units. This includes upgrading the quality of the materials used on their property, such a substituting superior James Hardie fiber cement siding for fiberboard products.