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BEST PRACTICES FOR CHAMCLAD® SOFFIT INSTALL

1. All trim bases must be installed on solid backing, fastened every 8-12″ – 8″ in high heat or with high U.V. exposure and firmly fasten trims against the backing to prevent movement in trims.
2. All 2pc trims must have equal length base and top to support the trim top and ensure full length engagement. Install all 2pc trims tops using a non marking rubber mallet or hand pressing.
3. VENTING: Both vented and solid panels MUST be used during installation of all exterior soffit applications. This includes underside of decks (with or without above living space), porch ceilings, or typical perimeter soffit for attic ventilation, as required by local building code. This prevents damages to Chamclad® panels and avoids wind washing to occur in attic spaces.
4. Cut panels with a carbide tip aluminum blade – or equivalent (cut panels slowly to avoid chipping). First panel must rip down nose to tuck inside the 2pc J-trim/finish trim and allow 1/4″ gap.
5. Ensure the panels are not forcefully pressed together during installation to avoid cupping, panels must be installed loosely to allow for movement.
6. All panels must be fastened 12-16″ O.C. starting within 4″ from both ends of panel. In areas of high heat, wind or U.V. exposure, fasten panels every 12″ and use aluminum trims.
7. Place fastener in middle of nail slot. If strapping/joists do not line up between two nail slots, rip the web between the nail slots to allow for proper fastening and movement of the panels.
8. Do not butt join panels. Use ChamClad® H-Trim to connect panels.
9. ChamClad® does not recommend installing products at -20°C (-4°F) or colder. For panels over 20′ or colder climate installs, use large face trims (3.5″ Finish Trim, 2.75″ H-Trim & 2.5″ Outside Corner). See chart below.
10. It is imperative that ChamClad® panels are cut to fit the coverage of trim pieces. The temperature the day of installation factors into the expansion and contraction gap you leave. If installing on a cooler day allow for more expansion and a larger gap; if installing on a warmer day allow for less expansion and a smaller gap. See chart below.
11. It is recommended to use ChamClad® universal screw available at ChamClad® and your local distributor.
12. Please refer to our install manual at https://chamclad.com/resources/installation/ bar code also below.

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