Process for producing smooth strand-based siding or structural panels

A manufacturing process for producing a smooth-sided strand-based product, comprising the steps of:

• blending cellulosic strands with one or more additives or chemicals;
• forming a mat with a first surface and a second surface from said cellulosic strands;
• applying heat and pressure to the mat in a primary pressing process to form a board;
• during the primary pressing process, pressing a texture in the second surface of the mat;
• trimming the board to form a master blank;
• while the master blank is still heated from the primary pressing process, and prior to application of one or more overlays to a surface of the master blank, pre-telegraphing the cellulosic strands in the first surface of the master blank by causing said cellulosic strands to swell, wherein the step of pre-telegraphing comprises
• causing the cellulosic strands in the first surface to swell by applying a water-based spray to said surface sufficient to elevate the moisture content of the master blank to approximately 3% moisture content, wherein the water-based spray comprises water and one or more chemicals or hydrophobic agents;
• and
• storing the master blank for a settling period of approximately 14 days to allow said cellulosic strands to swell;
• and
• after the settling period, and prior to application of one or more overlays to the pre-telegraphed surface of the master blank, removing imperfections in the pre-telegraphed surface by sanding the pre-telegraphed surface.