Planks, board & batten, colors, accessories and selling ASCEND.
98 articles
ASCEND Composite Cladding has demonstrated complete resistance to termite attack when tested under ASTM D3345 conditions. Learn what that test result means, what it does not guarantee, and why the wall framing, sheathing, insulation, and other concealed materials still require proper termite protection.
Read More →ASCEND Composite Cladding helps reduce thermal bridging by placing graphite-infused polystyrene insulation across the exterior of the wall. This continuous layer adds profile-specific thermal resistance over framing members, where heat can otherwise bypass cavity insulation.
Read More →Improper installation is one of the most common reasons siding warranty claims are denied. Learn the ten most common ASCEND Composite Cladding installation mistakes that can affect warranty coverage and discover how contractors can avoid costly callbacks by following the current manufacturer installation instructions.
Read More →ASCEND panels can bow, lift, or “fish-mouth” when the plank is compressed, stretched during lock engagement, hard-nailed, cut without proper clearance, installed over an uneven wall, or overlapped incorrectly. Learn how to diagnose the cause and correct the installation before the problem spreads across the wall.
Read More →ASCEND Composite Cladding can be installed during an Iowa winter, but the manufacturer prohibits installation below -5°F. Cold-weather projects require careful storage, straight controlled cuts, correct expansion clearances, properly adjusted fasteners, dry wall conditions, and safe access around snow and ice.
Read More →ASCEND outside corner posts must be installed over properly flashed corners, positioned with the correct top and bottom clearances, and fastened so they can move with temperature changes. Learn how to install, overlap, fasten, and finish ASCEND outside corners without restricting expansion or damaging the accessory.
Read More →ASCEND Composite Cladding can often be installed over existing wood or vinyl siding when the existing wall is structurally sound and a smooth, flat substrate is created. Learn when an overlay is appropriate, when complete siding removal is the better choice, and how proper wall preparation affects long-term performance and warranty coverage.
Read More →Finishing ASCEND Composite Cladding at soffits and gable peaks requires properly sized receiving channels, accurate angle templates, profile-specific expansion clearances, and finish trim where horizontal cuts remove the plank’s nail hem. Learn the correct process for 7-inch Plank and 12-inch Board & Batten.
Read More →Installing ASCEND Composite Cladding around windows and doors requires a properly flashed opening, compatible receiving channels, drainage paths, profile-specific expansion clearances, accurate panel cuts, and finish trim where a plank or Board & Batten panel loses its locking or fastening edge.
Read More →The first course of ASCEND Composite Cladding establishes the alignment for the entire wall. Learn how to properly install the starter strip, level the first course, engage the first plank, maintain required clearances, and avoid installation mistakes that can affect appearance and warranty coverage.
Read More →Installing ASCEND 12-inch Board & Batten requires a balanced wall layout, code-compliant weather-resistant barrier, properly installed receiving channels, straight panel cuts, profile-specific clearances, and correct fastening. Learn the step-by-step process, including wall preparation, panel layout, finish trim, gables, openings, and common installation mistakes.
Read More →ASCEND fastener spacing depends on the profile, accessory, substrate, and required wind-load performance. Current installation guidance calls for 7-inch Plank fasteners at 16 inches on center, Board & Batten fasteners every 8 to 12 inches, staggered plank-overlap fasteners every 8 inches, and starter-strip fasteners every 8 inches.
Read More →ASCEND samples and demo kits are available at the counter, and most are free. Call to check which ASCEND colors are on hand.