Abstract: An exterior panel includes a plurality of slots extending across the width of the panel. A plurality of nailing holes resides above the slots into which nails are driven to secure the panel to the surface of a building structure. The slots permit expansion and contraction of the panel relative to the surface of the building structure.

Abstract: An apparatus and method is provided for sealing a package. The apparatus comprises a first rotating belt and a second rotating belt adjacent to the first rotating belt. The first and second rotating belt have a synchronized travel speed. The first rotating belt carries a sealing device for sealing a package, the package being located between said first and second belts.

Abstract: An exterior panel containing algaecidal properties is provided for inhibiting the growth of algae on roofing materials and exterior siding. Algaecide is applied to the exterior panel on the unexposed surface, i.e., the side of the panel, when installed, is not directly in contact with the effects of weather. Moisture such as rain, dew, melting frost or snow, contacts the exposed surface of the panel and water is transported to the bottom portion of the unexposed surface of the panel via capillary attraction. Water extracts the algaecide and distributes it to the exposed surfaces of the panels and all of the other descending panels.

Abstract: A method of molding roofing shingles includes the steps of providing a compression mold having two mold bodies, and installing a mold insert in each of the two mold bodies. The surfaces of the inserts are shaped to correspond with the desired shape of a roofing shingle. A multiplicity of roofing shingles are molded using the compression mold. Each molding step includes charging the mold with a moldable material containing resin in an amount within the range of from about 10 to about 40 percent, and filler material in an amount within the range of from about 60 to about 90 percent, wherein the filler material subjects the inserts to wear by abrasion. The inserts in the mold are replaced when they are worn out, but this is done without replacing the mold bodies.