Understanding NewTechWood as a Composite System
NewTechWood products are engineered composite materials designed for exterior facades, accent walls, and coordinated outdoor surfaces. They offer a wood-look aesthetic with the benefit of being a low-maintenance composite system. This means that while they mimic the appearance of wood, their installation and support requirements are specific to composite materials, often differing from traditional lumber.
The system approach for NewTechWood includes not only the visible cladding but also the necessary components for a complete wall assembly. This encompasses everything from the wall sheathing to the furring strips and fasteners, all working together to create a durable and effective exterior surface.
The Role of Furring Strips in NewTechWood Installation
Furring strips are a key component of many NewTechWood cladding substructures, particularly for rainscreen assemblies. These strips create a ventilation gap between the wall sheathing and the back of the cladding, allowing moisture to drain and air to circulate. This air gap is vital for managing moisture, which can help protect the underlying wall structure.
The type, material, and spacing of furring strips will depend on the specific NewTechWood profile chosen, the desired aesthetic (e.g., horizontal or vertical layout), and local building requirements. Typically, furring strips are securely fastened to the structural elements of the wall, such as studs, providing a consistent and level surface for attaching the NewTechWood planks.
Fastening Methods and Substrate Compatibility
NewTechWood products are secured using specific fastening methods designed for composite materials. These methods ensure that the cladding is held firmly in place while allowing for the natural expansion and contraction of the material due to temperature changes. It is important to use the recommended fasteners and follow the manufacturer's guidelines for attachment.
The substrate to which the furring strips (and subsequently the cladding) are attached must be sound and capable of holding fasteners securely. Common substrates include structural sheathing over studs. The integrity of this substrate is paramount for the overall stability of the installed NewTechWood surface. Always confirm the compatibility of your existing or planned substrate with the NewTechWood system before proceeding.
Planning for Different Layouts: Horizontal vs. Vertical
The orientation of your NewTechWood cladding – whether horizontal or vertical – directly influences the substructure layout. For horizontal cladding, vertical furring strips are typically used to create the necessary air gap and provide attachment points. Conversely, for vertical cladding, horizontal furring strips are often employed, sometimes with an additional layer of vertical furring to maintain the air gap.
Consider how the chosen layout will interact with windows, doors, and other architectural features. Proper planning ensures that furring strips provide continuous support and that fasteners can be installed at appropriate intervals without compromising the aesthetic or structural integrity around openings.
Worked Example: Substructure for a Horizontal Cladding Project
Let's consider a hypothetical wall section, 10 feet wide by 8 feet high, intended for horizontal NewTechWood cladding. The wall is framed with studs spaced 16 inches on center.
For horizontal cladding, we will install vertical furring strips. Assuming a standard furring strip width (e.g., 1.5 inches nominal) and a recommendation for support at every stud, you would need a furring strip aligned with each stud. For a 10-foot wide wall, with studs at 16 inches on center, you would typically have 8 studs (one at each end and then every 16 inches across). Therefore, you would need 8 vertical furring strips, each 8 feet long. This translates to 64 linear feet of furring. This setup provides continuous vertical support for the horizontal NewTechWood planks and maintains the necessary air gap.
This example is simplified; actual projects require detailed measurements, consideration of window/door openings, and adherence to specific NewTechWood installation instructions regarding furring material, spacing, and fastening to the primary structure. Always consult the full product documentation for precise substructure requirements.
Before you order
- Confirm the specific NewTechWood profile and its installation guidelines.
- Determine the desired cladding orientation (horizontal or vertical).
- Assess the existing wall structure and substrate (e.g., studs, sheathing).
- Plan the furring strip layout to support the cladding and create a ventilation gap.
- Select appropriate furring strip material and dimensions.
- Choose fasteners compatible with both the NewTechWood product and the substructure materials.
- Detail how furring and fastening will be handled around windows, doors, and corners.
- Verify local building codes and rainscreen requirements for exterior wall assemblies.
Confirm installation details, approved uses and warranty terms in the current instructions for the exact product and profile. Your installer should verify the substrate, structure and applicable project requirements.
Questions to help you decide
Do NewTechWood Outdoor Surfaces always require furring strips?
For most NewTechWood cladding applications, especially those intended for exterior walls, furring strips are a recommended component of the substructure. They are crucial for creating a ventilation gap, which helps manage moisture and promote air circulation behind the cladding. Always refer to the specific installation instructions for your chosen NewTechWood profile to confirm requirements, as some applications or profiles may have different guidelines.
What kind of material should I use for furring strips?
The material for furring strips can vary. Common choices include treated lumber or composite furring specifically designed for exterior use. The material should be durable, dimensionally stable, and resistant to moisture and decay. It's important to select a material that is compatible with the NewTechWood system and local building codes. Consult the NewTechWood installation guide for any specific material recommendations or restrictions.
How do I calculate the quantity of furring strips needed?
To calculate the quantity of furring strips, first determine their orientation (vertical for horizontal cladding, horizontal for vertical cladding). For example, if you need vertical furring every 16 inches on a 20-foot (240-inch) wide wall, you would do 240 / 16 = 15 sections, meaning 16 furring strips. Multiply this by the height of the wall to get the total linear footage. Always factor in waste and cuts around openings. This is an area-equivalent calculation; confirm actual product lengths and order full modules.
Ready to plan your NewTechWood Outdoor Surfaces project?
Request a material quote with your project dimensions, exact NewTechWood profile, and ZIP code. We can help confirm current availability and service options for your substructure and cladding needs.
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