LP SmartSide Siding Replacement Project in River Falls, WI A retired couple in River Falls wanted to upgrade their late-1970s rambler home's original wood siding. Water was wicking up from the lower deck, rotting the bottom siding courses and trim. Blackwolf Exteriors executed a full siding replacement using LP SmartSide engineered wood siding in a rich dark green shade. The crew installed weather-resistant house wrap, metal window flashing, and aluminum soffit and fascia in River Falls, WI. Key Takeaways THE CHALLENGEOriginal 1970s wood siding with bottom-edge rot caused by water wicking off the deck without flashing. THE SYSTEMRemoval of old wood, installation of house wrap and metal drip flashing, and LP SmartSide siding in dark green. THE RESULTA clean, modern rambler exterior completed in four days with durable, low-maintenance engineered wood. Older homes built without house wrap or flashing suffer from hidden moisture damage over time. By installing LP SmartSide engineered wood over new weather barriers, Blackwolf Exteriors provided a durable, beautiful finish built to handle severe weather. Project Summary Client Profile: Retired Homeowners Project Location: River Falls, WI Primary Objective: Replace aging 1970s wood siding using professional siding installation practices. System Installed: LP SmartSide engineered wood siding paired with a complete siding replacement setup. Key Outcome: Eliminated water wicking issues with custom metal flashing, aluminum window wraps, and a 4-day completion time. Moisture Decay & Flashing Inspection The rambler-style home retained its original 1978 wood siding, soffit, and fascia. Decades of rain runoff and melting snow on the back deck caused water to wick up into the lower siding boards, leading to rot and paint failure. Tear-down revealed that the original construction lacked house wrap and protective metal flashing above windows and door frames. Without these barriers, air drafts and moisture penetrated the wall sheathing, risking structural damage. LP SmartSide & Aluminum Wrap Installation The crew removed the aged wood siding and applied high-grade house wrap across all exterior sheathing to satisfy modern building codes. To eliminate future rot along the deck line, workers installed custom metal Z-flashing to redirect water runoff safely away from the wall. "The homeowners love the color! They wanted to stay in the greens, but a little bit darker, and the finished product exceeded their expectations." - (Joe, Blackwolf Exteriors) The homeowners selected LP SmartSide engineered wood over vinyl or steel to maintain a classic wood-grain aesthetic in a rich green tone. The team replaced original wood soffits with aluminum, wrapped burgundy window frames in clean white aluminum, and built a crisp trim surround around the front door. The entire project was completed in only four days. Long-Term Durability & Weather Resistance The LP SmartSide upgrade restored the home's structural integrity while updating its exterior appearance. The treated engineered wood offers exceptional impact resistance against hail and requires minimal upkeep beyond occasional hosing. With proper house wrap, metal flashing, and aluminum soffits installed, the home is sealed against air leaks and moisture intrusion. The retired homeowners gained a comfortable, energy-efficient exterior designed to last for decades. Upgrade Your Home Siding in River Falls We provide honest guidance, quality engineered wood and vinyl products, and hands-on owner management on every job site. Planning a siding replacement or exterior update in River Falls? Contact our team today for your free, no-hassle estimate. Blackwolf Exteriors2039 Michael Ln, River Falls, WI 54022Call 715-426-4008 or Schedule Online Frequently Asked Questions What are the benefits of LP SmartSide siding in River Falls, WI? LP SmartSide is an engineered treated wood product that combines the authentic texture of real wood with superior resistance to fungal decay, termites, and hail impacts. How does deck flashing prevent siding rot? Metal flashing installed along the base of siding directs water runoff away from the wall sheathing and onto the deck surface, stopping water and ice from wicking upward into the siding material. How much maintenance does LP SmartSide siding require? LP SmartSide requires minimal maintenance. Rinsing the exterior with a hose periodically removes dirt, and factory-finished coatings typically only need repainting every 20 to 25 years.