How To Install TandoStone Siding [Step By Step Guide]

TandoStone is an inexpensive composite siding that looks like natural stone. Installing the siding is not complicated compared to natural stone siding. TandoStone works well by itself or with other exterior materials. Based on our research, this post will guide you on how to install TandoStone siding.

With your materials and tools ready, below are the steps to install TandoStone siding:

Install the starter strips at the bottom.
Attach fasteners on the nailing slots of the siding.
Hook the next sections on the starter strip.
For the next rows, hook the cut section over the previous row.
When you reach the last row, add some shims to adjust the angle.

When installing the siding, you need to observe the proper spacing for each section. You must follow the instructions of the product and abide by the necessary building codes. Read on to learn about the installation process, tips, and best practices.

Installing TandoStone Siding

TandoStone offers two siding styles: Stacked Stone and Creek Ledgestone. The installation for both types is the same. The only difference is the final appearance of the two sidings when installed.

Most siding panels are 3/32 inches thick, so working with the siding should be easy because it is thin and lightweight. You should follow the product instructions so that siding is flush with the wall.

You need to prepare the following materials before installation:

Circular saw with thin kerchief blade
Finish trims (J-channel or an outside corner post)
Non-corrosive roofing or siding nails/screws (7/16 or 1 1/4-inch)
Starter strips

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Installation Steps

After gathering the required materials, follow this step-by-step guide to install your TandoStone siding:

Install the starter strips on the bottom of the siding. Ensure that the horizontal line is level and square with the wall.
Leave a 3 1/2 inch space at the ends for corners, corner posts, and J channels.
Fasten the starter strips with a maximum space of 8 inches. When you install the next strip, fasten it to the previous strip.
Measure the number of sections to cover. To compute, deduct the width of the strips installed from the length of the wall. Then divide the amount by 39 1/2 inches.
Once done, cut the siding starting from the left side.
Slide the first cut piece of the siding on the left side of the starter strip. Leave a 2 1/2 inch space from the wall corner.
For each section installed, fasten nails or screws on the central hole. Also, fasten the three installation holes on each side. The last fastener will be on the lateral hole. There will be a total of eight fasteners in one section.
Afterward, install the next section on the starter strip and slide it to the left. You will insert the side locks in the previous section. Leave a 1/16-inch space between the sections.
Fasten the sections and repeat adding until you complete the row. The direction should be from left to right.
On the second row, cut 8 inches from the left side of the first piece.
Hook the piece on top of the previous row. When placing the sections, make sure that the side locks engage. Follow the illustration in the product manual to help you position the sidings.
For the last row, cut a 1-inch slot that's wider than the fastener.
Add shims on the last row. In this way, you can adjust the angle of the section.

You can refer to the detailed steps in the product manual. If you want quality installation, you can hire a professional installer for this project.

Tips On Installation

You should remember these tips when installing TandoStone siding:

Work on a smooth, flat wall surface that takes nails. You can work on OSB or plywood with a minimum of 7/16-inch thickness.
Do not use a nail gun when fastening the siding. The installation is effective when you add nails or screws by hand.
Keep the product at waist level so you can see the back.
Install furring strips when installing on a furring wall.
Do not hammer or screw the fasteners in all the way. You must leave a 1/16-inch gap between the fastener head and the nailing channel.
Follow local building codes.

Installation Issues

Below are some problems you might encounter during installation and ways to address them:

When the sections don't lock, you should make sure that the wall is level and flat. You can add shims to level the wall. Also, check how you installed the previous sections and see if the fingers interlock.
If the sections are buckling or not lying flat against the wall, check to see if the fastening is too tight to restrict movement. There should also be proper spacing between sections, and all fingers should be interlocking.

Other Factors To Consider

TandoStone siding can be used with natural wood, cement, fiber, or stucco. Note that it is not a weather-resistant barrier, although the product uses innovative technology to keep moisture out.

TandoStone siding will expand and contract when the temperature changes. Note that you can only install the siding vertically. You cannot use it on roofs or floors. One exception is a mansard roof with a 45/12 slope.

TandoStone Siding Styles

As we mentioned, Tando offers two different siding styles. You can learn about them from the descriptions below.

Stacked Stone

The stacked stone style has a dry stack profile with no grout lines between the stone. This style has a classic, intricate elegance because it looks like the small stones have been hand-laid with precision.

The style has a contemporary finish. It is available in the following colors:

Lewiston Crest
Santa Fe
Sedona Bluff
Glacier Bay
Chestnut Hills

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Creek Ledgestone

The creek ledgestone style features stones of various sizes with grout lines in between them. You can choose this style if you want a rugged look for your home.

The siding's horizontal ledge is more pronounced than the vertical joints, and the rough edges create a dimensional look. This style also has five color variants:

Appalachian Ash
Bucks County Gray
Nordic Mist
Rocky Mountain Clay
Arizona Sandstone

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In the end, you should choose the style and color that will match your preferences and needs.

Do You Need A House Wrap With TandoStone Siding?

You will need to install a house wrap underneath your TandoStone siding. The siding is mainly ornamental, so the wrap will act as a water barrier. Tando suggests choosing a trusted house wrap product from a reliable brand.

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Adding a house wrap can prevent air infiltration and help you save on energy costs. Once you find a suitable house wrap, make sure you install it properly. Improper installation can increase moisture that allows the growth of mold.

If you install the wrap yourself, you should hang the strips horizontally and close off the seams to prevent leaks. If you do not have the expertise to install a house wrap, seek professional assistance.

Will TandoStone Siding Fade?

TandoStone has UV protection that helps preserve its color. The products have a matte finish that will not fade. So you can get a low-maintenance product with long-lasting colors.

Advantages Of TandoStone Siding

If you're trying to decide if TandoStone is right for your home, here are some of the advantages of this type of siding:

Cheaper than natural stone
Fast, easy installation
Impervious to moisture
Lightweight
Long-lasting and durable
Low-gloss look
Low-maintenance
You can install it in any weather

The siding's susceptibility to moisture is one disadvantage. But if you use a house wrap as a barrier, that won't be a problem.

In Summary

TandoStone sidings are easy to install. The process involves fastening sections of cut sidings. You start from the bottom by adding sections on the starter strips and completing a row.

When you add the next row, you hook the new piece over the previous one. You add sections until you fill the wall. You should install a house wrap prior to adding the siding. The house wrap will act as a water barrier.

Tando products have UV protection to keep the color from fading. You can create an appealing home with the proper installation of TandoStone siding.

Learn more about siding from these posts:

Gap Between Siding And Foundation – What To Do?

What Color Siding Goes With Black Windows?