Northwest Factory Finishes ColoRISE Board and Batten (4/4 x 3 x 13 ft. 4 in.) is synthetic fiber composite siding made from 94% recycled carpet materials that solves a specific contractor headache — seam management on tall walls. The extra-long 13’4” length minimizes seams and waste on tall walls, while matching standard 16-inch on-center stud spacing for efficient installation. For Montana contractors dealing with multi-story homes, pole barns, and modern mountain architecture, this product delivers real labor savings with 30-year substrate warranty backing its durability claims.
The standout feature isn’t just the recycled content — it’s the combination of that length advantage with resistance to rot, decay, and freeze-thaw damage plus incidental ground contact rating. Montana’s 100+ freeze-thaw cycles per year destroy lesser sidings, but this composite handles the abuse while offering a protective water barrier on all sides.
The 94% Recycled Content That Actually Performs
The synthetic fiber composite uses primarily recycled carpet fibers including polyester, nylon, and fiberglass compressed through a patented process into a dense, durable board. This isn’t greenwashing — the material delivers measurable performance advantages over traditional alternatives.
Wind load capacity reaches up to 29 psf when fastened per ESR-4731 specifications, handling Montana’s chinook winds and mountain gusts. The flame spread index of 200 or less (ASTM E84) typically achieves Class B or C fire rating, meeting wildfire zone requirements across the state.
| Specification | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Material Composition | 94% recycled materials (carpet fibers) | Manufacturer |
| Dimensions | 4/4 x 3 x 13 ft. 4 in. | Manufacturer |
| Wind Load Capacity | Up to 29 psf per ESR-4731 | Tested |
| Fire Performance | Flame spread ≤ 200 (ASTM E84) | Tested |
| Substrate Warranty | 30 years limited | Manufacturer |
| Finish Warranty | 15 years limited (ColoRISE factory finish) | Manufacturer |
The 140,000 sq. ft. facility in Bonner, MT processes nearly 10 million feet annually, making this a truly Montana-made product. The eco-friendly aspect diverts carpet waste from landfills while creating a siding that outlasts traditional wood alternatives.
Factory-Applied Finish That Saves Field Labor
The ColoRISE factory-applied finish uses PPG Duracolor technology for superior paint adhesion. This isn’t just primer — it’s a complete UV-protected finish that resists fading and chalking with 15-year limited warranty coverage for excessive fading, peeling, and flaking.
The factory finish eliminates weather delays waiting for painting conditions. No worrying about Montana’s short construction season or sudden temperature drops ruining fresh paint. The boards arrive ready to install with consistent color that field painting can’t match.
Standard woodworking tools (saws, nail guns) handle the material, meaning crews don’t need specialized equipment. Installation requires standard roofing nailers with 1/8-inch shank x 1/4-inch head roofing nails providing minimum 1.25-inch penetration into framing.
Installation and Compatibility Details
The board and batten system requires proper substrate preparation and fastening:
| Installation Requirement | Specification |
|---|---|
| Substrate | Wood structural panel sheathing (OSB or plywood) |
| Weather Barrier | Standard water-resistive barrier per local codes |
| Fastener Type | 1/8” shank x 1/4” head roofing nails, min. 1.25” penetration |
| Fastener Spacing | Maximum 16 inches on center |
| Joint Treatment | Joints should be flashed and sealed |
The system is compatible with RISE Lap Siding and RISE Panels for complete exterior solutions. Boards should be stored flat and kept dry prior to installation — standard practice that prevents warping or moisture damage before application.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes the 13’4” length particularly useful? The 13 feet 4 inches (160 inches) length minimizes seams and waste on tall walls. Most siding comes in 12-foot lengths, requiring seams on standard 8-16 foot walls. The extra 16 inches eliminates many horizontal seams entirely, saving labor and creating cleaner sight lines on multi-story buildings.
How does the ground contact rating benefit Montana installations? The material is rated for incidental ground contact and resists rot, decay, and freeze-thaw damage. This matters where siding meets grade at foundations, deck connections, or sloped sites — common situations in Montana’s mountain terrain where perfect clearances aren’t always achievable.
What certifications back up the performance claims? Multiple third-party certifications validate performance: ICC-ES ESR-4731 for code compliance (IBC, IRC, CBC, CRC, FBC), ASTM E84 for surface burning characteristics, CALGreen compliance, ICC 700 National Green Building Standard, and ASTM D1037 for physical property testing.
How does it compare to fiber cement siding? Compared to fiber cement, this product is significantly lighter and less prone to breakage, can be cut with standard wood saws without silica dust concerns, and comes in longer lengths (13’4” vs typical 12’). The lighter weight reduces installer fatigue and transportation costs.
Is the 30-year warranty legitimate given the recycled content? The 30-year limited warranty covers manufacturing defects in the substrate despite the high recycled content. The patented compression process creates a dense, durable board that testing validates for long-term performance. The separate 15-year finish warranty on the ColoRISE factory coating provides additional protection against appearance degradation.
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