Structural siding composition

Abstract

A structural siding composition for use in the building industry comprising (a) siding layer prepared from an impregnated cellulosic material with an amount of essentially uncatalyzed polyisocyanate from about 8 to 20 percent by weight of polyisocyanate to cellulosic material, which has been heated at a temperature from about 105.degree. to about 245.degree. C. (221.degree. to 473.degree. F.) for a time not exceeding about 5 minutes and at a pressure from about 2700 to about 8300 kPa (390 to 1200 psi) sufficiently to cure the polyisocyanate, and (b) an insulating layer. In one embodiment, the composition further comprises an inner sheathing layer. A method of preparing the composition is also described. The composition provides a relatively high strength pre-fabricated exterior siding panel that can be attached to a frame building construction, contributing structural integrity and saving time and risks associated with traditional building methods requiring more steps. The siding layer can be formed or molded to simulate the appearance of conventional siding construction with reduced maintenance needs.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.