WOODPLANK Modern Exterior Wood Cladding Installation Guide
- May 15, 2024
- WOODPLANK
Table of Contents
WOODPLANK Modern Exterior Wood Cladding
MODERN WOOD Exterior Cladding Applications
WoodPlank Modern Exterior Wood Cladding can be used for any exterior,
interior, or commercial application. Choose from our thermally modified wood
species to get the perfect look for your project.
Prepare Exterior Surface for Installation
- Ensure the surface is clean, smooth, and free of debris. Use minimum 3/4” thick furring strips (spaced 16-24” apart on center) for proper ventilation. If the boards horizontally, the furring strips will be placed vertically. If the boards are installed vertically, a second layer of furring strips will be added horizontally to allow for proper drainage.
- Drainage Gap: It is recommended to leave a minimum 12” gap at the bottom between the ground and cladding. At the very least, the ventilation gap behind the cladding must stay open from below to ensure air circulation and avoid debris buildup.
Mark Your Starting Line
Use a level to mark a straight line along the wall so you can secure the starting board in the correct position. It is generally recommended to start from the lowest row and work your way up. For vertical installations, you can work left to right or right to left.
Secure the Boards to the Exterior Surface
Required: 2 inch stainless steel nails, nail gun.
Hold the first board along your starting line and secure it using a nail gun with 2 inch stainless steel nails. Nail along the tongue of the board to hide the nail. Repeat directly next to that board, forming a bottom row.
Finish the Row by Cutting the Last Panel to Size
- When you get to the end of your row, you will likely need to cut your last board to size. Sharper blades always make for a better, cleaner cut. For added protection, touch up the exposed cut with Thompson’s WaterSealer.
- Expansion Gap: It is recommended to leave a minimum 1/8”-1/4” gap around the edges of the installation area, and between butt joints to allow for natural expansion and contraction of authentic wood products.
Repeat the Process Above Along Each Row
Be sure to imagine how you want the planks to appear before installing. There is no need to line up the seams. It is recommended that you offset the seams for a better appearance.
Working Around Lights and Electrical Outlets
It is recommended that you safely install the boards just under the housing of your light switches or outlets and then tighten the housing onto the boards. This will allow for any covers to be installed flush on top of the housing and boards.
Complete the Last Row for Your Finished Look
If you decide to go to the top of your wall, you will likely need to make additional cuts along the length of the panels to get the desired width of the remaining row. Follow the recommended procedure in Step #4 to safely cut the boards.
Maintain Every Year for Best Results
Inspect seasonally and reseal as needed, generally every year. Can be
resealed using Thompson’s WaterSealer or an equivalent seal to protect against
UV and wet weather conditions.
Common Care and Maintenance for WoodPlank Exterior Cladding
Cupping & Crowning
Uneven relative humidity above and below the cladding can cause cupping
(boards curve to form a “smiley face”) or crowning (boards curve to form a
“frown face”). Maintaining balanced humidity levels is crucial to prevent
these issues.Following the recommended drainage and expansion gaps will help
prevent this from occurring.
Cracking
Cracking may occur when the wood surface is sealed with film-forming finishes,
trapping moisture within. To allow the wood to breathe and expel moisture,
avoid such finishes and optfor products like Thompson’s WaterSeal Clear, which
penetrates and protects the wood without forming a surface film.
Color Change
Wood naturally changes color over time, even when treated with UV protectants.
To minimize and manage color changes, use Thompson’s WaterSeal Clear for
enhanced protection against UV rays and weather conditions. Regular
maintenance can renew the appearance of your WoodPlank cladding.
Black Staining at Screw Holes
Always use stainless steel fasteners with WoodPlank cladding to prevent
corrosion and black staining. The higher acidity of thermally modified wood
can accelerate the corrosion of non-stainless materials.
Cladding Expansion/Buckling
Proper ventilation behind the cladding is essential to prevent expansion and
buckling due to humidity imbalances. Ensure clear ventilation from the bottom
to the top of the wall, and address any water ingress issues promptly to
maintain the cladding’s integrity.
Color Bleeding from Boards
While WoodPlank products do not contain chemicals that cause bleeding, natural
tannins in the wood may leach out, especially during rain. This is more
visible on lighter surfaces but is generally temporary and washes away
naturally. For persistent stains, use a cleaner approved by the surface
manufacturer.
Black/Green Surface Stain and Mold
Regular cleaning is recommended to prevent mold and stains caused by
environmental elements like dirt and pollen. Light pressure washing and a
renewing agent can effectively remove these stains, maintaining the beauty and
longevity of your WoodPlank cladding. Our goal is to ensure you’re satisfied
with your WoodPlank product and to assist with any concerns that may arise.