Storage:

• Materials should be covered until ready to install to ensure a clean surface
• All products shall be stored flat and supported above the ground at 500mm intervals starting at the ends
• Battens used to separate and support the cladding material should be spaced no greater than 500mm
• Supporting battens used in storage should align through the stack to equally transfer the load to the ground
• Where pallets are delivered these should not be stacked more than four pallets (or 3m) high

Handling:

• Cladding materials should be placed and not dumped when unloading
• Lift and set boards down rather than sliding the boards to avoid damage
• Carry the cladding boards on their edge for better support
• During installation, do not slide or drag any equipment across the boards
• The surface of the cladding boards should be kept free of construction debris and material to prevent damage to the boards.

Prior to installing any composite cladding system it is recommended that you check with local building codes for any special requirements or restrictions. The diagrams and instructions outlined in this guide are for illustration purposes and are not meant or implied to replace a licensed professional.

Safety:
• Always wear safety glasses and relevant Personal Protection Equipment (PPE)
• When cutting and installing boards it is advised to wear gloves, a respiratory mask, long sleeves and trousers
• Static build- up is a natural occuring phenomenon that can occur with many composite products. Dry and windy environments may make this more apparent. The levels of static build up will not cause personsal injury
• The composite boards CANNOT be installed directly onto a flat surface. They must be installed onto a substructure to allow adequate and unobstructed air fow under the cladding to prevent excessive water absorption. A minimum of 25mm clearance beneath the cladding should be provided to promote drainage and drying
• Excessive heat on the surface of the composite cladding products from external sources such as (but not limited to) fire or refection of sunlight from energy efficient window products such as Low-E glass can cause an unusual heat build-up on exterior surfaces. The rise in surface temperature from Low-E glass to adverse levels is deemed extremely rare due to the prevailling climate. Excessive heat exposure can cause the boards to sag, warp, discolour, increase expansion/ contraction, accelerate weathering, and in extreme circumstances, melting of the board

Use:
• Standard woodworking tools may be used. It is recommended that all blades have a carbide tip. Stainless steel or acceptable coated screws are recommended
• Plan a layout for your cladding before starting to ensure the best look is achieved. Pay particular attention to interfaces with doors, windows and soffits in order to determine the optimal starting position for the first boards
• Composite cladding boards are not intended for use as columns, support posts, beams, joist stringers or other primary load-bearing members
• Boards must be supported by a compliant substructure and CANNOT be installed onto existing cladding boards
• All fixings should be fastened at a 90 degree angle to the cladding system
• Use white chalk, straight boards or string lines as templates. NEVER use coloured chalk on the boards as this can cause permanent staining
• All recommended fixings are available from us. Please visit www.fhbrundle.co.uk for more information.