Fiber cement is a great-looking siding that, when installed correctly, can last up to 50 years. But for trouble-free results, the accessories need to last as long as the siding itself. In the case of mounting blocks, that means choosing a high-quality manufactured product.
While more contractors than ever are choosing manufactured blocks, others still use pieces of leftover trim. They drill a hole in the center for the wire, pipe or vent, run caulking around the edges in the hope of keeping water out, and then make metal flashing over the top edge.
These installers no doubt think they're saving time and money, but they're not. After factoring in the time required to make the block, the installed costs are higher than for a manufactured one. The quality is also sub-par: the caulk only offers five-to-seven years of protection, which increases the chance of callbacks, and the flashing ends up as an aesthetic blemish on an otherwise beautiful-looking wall.
By contrast, manufactured blocks are readily available, easy to install, look great, and have features that guarantee quality. The benefits of manufactured blocks include:
More choices. Manufactured blocks come in sizes and configurations for pipes, wires, and vents. They're available in closed-cell foam and polystyrene versions, both of which will last the life of the siding. You can get them pre-primed or in finishes that match the most popular fiber cement colors.
Easier installation. With manufactured blocks, the utility holes come pre-drilled and perfectly centered. The better manufactured blocks allow siding to easily fit over a pre-punched mounting area at the top and sides of the block, ensuring a neat-looking installation.
Better water management. With high-quality mounting blocks, such as Tamlyn XtremeBlock, built-in drainage channels and raised water diverter eliminate the need for additional flashing. End dams at the top edge automatically create the required 1/4-inch gap between the block and the overlapping course. The top edge is also angled forward to ensure drainage and to prevent ice build-up in winter. Blocks for light fixtures have features that direct water away from the fixture, which is important if a leak develops in the gasket.
And while these benefits are crucial for a quality fiber-cement job, manufactured blocks are also the best choice for other siding types.
So why haven't all installers switched to manufactured blocks? One of the biggest reasons is vague job specs, which require only that some type of block be used. For lasting results, specify an exact choice, such as the Tamlyn XtremeBlock.
The bottom line is that whether you're a builder or a siding contractor, your name is on the job. You want satisfied customers that give enthusiastic referrals. Quality accessories are an important part of getting those results.
To learn more about using manufactured blocks, visit www.tamlyn.com.
