BarkClad introduces SmartBark

BarkClad introduces SmartBark engineered bark siding

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: May 5, 2014

CONTACT: Lydia Carrington, (828) 231-1793 or [email protected]

Trusted industry leader develops sustainable alternative to natural bark

CANTON, NC – BarkClad, a leader in the bark siding industry, introduces SmartBark, the world’s first engineered bark siding.

Designed to mimic the rich beauty of traditional poplar bark siding, SmartBark provides the distinct look of the natural product with the added benefit of being maintenance free. With a 30-year limited warranty, it is a smart and affordable solution for homeowners who want the rustic look of natural bark.

“We’ve been working for the past several years to perfect a sustainable alternative to natural bark siding, and SmartBark is the exciting result,” said Danny Heatherly, Owner of BarkClad. “We’re thrilled to be able to bring to the marketplace this ingenious new product that builds on our company’s long tradition of excellence.”

Manufactured of a polymer blend in an innovative patented process, SmartBark has the texture and look of natural siding, but is resistant to weather and rot, and does not require the maintenance for pests and moisture like natural bark.

Versatile and easy to install, SmartBark panels are 16-by-18-inches and can be used on exterior and interior surfaces, as full or partial house siding, on porches, decks and facades, or as accents inside the home. The siding is available in three natural colors – Weathered Brown, Medium Brown and Silverback Gray – or can be painted using any latex finish.

The cost of installed SmartBark is approximately 20 percent less than natural bark. And with an R-value of 4.7 per inch, the engineered siding contributes to homeowners’ annual energy savings.

“SmartBark is authentic and affordable. It’s easy to install and virtually maintenance free,” Summers said. “For builders, developers or homeowners who like the look of natural bark siding, but would prefer to use a sustainable product, there’s no other choice.”

SmartBark is the newest product for BarkClad, a bark and building supply company founded in 1999 in the western North Carolina mountains by second-generation timber farmer Danny Heatherly. For more than 19 years, BarkClad has been providing the highest-quality natural bark products in the U.S. and Canada and exceptional customer service. BarkClad is an FSC-certified company.

For more information on SmartBark and the other BarkClad products, visit barkclad.com.

SmartBark benefits over natural bark

• 25-year warranty
• Easier to install
• Lower installation cost
• R-value of 4.7 per inch
• Fire resistant
• Does not rot, mold, crack or curl
• Does not darken, bleach, shrink or expand
• Does not require bug treatment or attract woodpeckers
• Paintable and washable
• Low maintenance
• Patented VaporLock moisture barrier