Abstract: A component capable of receiving and/or supporting a utility-related structure for intended use as part of a siding system and a related method are disclosed. In one embodiment, the component includes a body for positioning adjacent to an external wall of a building or dwelling covered by at least one siding strip. The body includes an opening for receiving a first portion of the utility related-structure. The opening has a predetermined size and shape, and is surrounded by a surface for engaging a second portion of the utility-related structure. Fastener-receiving apertures may be provided in the body as necessary for receiving fasteners that assist in either securing the component to the wall or for securing the second portion of the utility-related structure to the component. The component may also form an interlock with the adjacent siding strip.

Abstract: A component for a siding system is disclosed. In one embodiment, the component includes an elongated body for positioning against the wall of a building or dwelling in a vertical orientation. The body may include an outwardly bowed portion that simulates the appearance of a log or timber. The component also includes first and second receivers projecting in opposite directions. When the component is vertically oriented against the wall, each receiver is adapted for receiving and at least partially covering a portion of a plurality of horizontally extending siding strips.

Abstract: A corner unit for a siding system is disclosed. In one embodiment, the unit has a plurality of pairs of integral receivers for receiving and covering the ends of adjacent first and second siding strips terminating adjacent to the corner of a dwelling or other stable support structure. The unit also includes a plurality of pairs of outwardly projecting portions that simulate the appearance of overlapping structural members at the corners. Each adjacent receiver and outwardly projecting portion in a different horizontal plane may also have an integral connector portion that simulates the appearance of grout or chinking. When used with siding strips having a similar portion simulating grout or chinking, the realism of the overall simulation at the corner of the dwelling and along the adjacent walls is enhanced. The unit may also be formed of a single piece of material, such as injection molded plastic, to facilitate installation.

Abstract: A trim component or strip for a siding system is disclosed. In one embodiment, the component includes an elongated body having an outwardly bowed portion that simulates the appearance of a log or timber. The trim component also includes an integral receiver for receiving a portion of one or more siding strips, such as either a side edge of a single siding strip or an end of a plurality of siding strips, depending on the relative orientation of the component and the strip(s). A pair of trim components may also be provided for trimming adjacent sides of the wall opening, in which case at least one end of one of the components may be miter cut and overlap with the corresponding end of the adjacent trim component. Alternatively, the corresponding ends of at least one pair of adjacent trim components may be miter cut and fit in an abutting relationship to form a miter joint.

Abstract: A siding system including an improved siding strip and a starter strip for assisting in attaching a first siding strip to a side of a dwelling or other stable mounting structure is provided. The siding strip includes at least one integral portion having the simulated appearance of grout or chinking. When two or more siding strips are placed adjacent to each other, this integral portion remains exposed such that the appearance of grout or chinking between the siding strips is simulated. The starter strip is provided with a C-shaped channel that receives a fastener portion or other part of a first siding strip in snap-fit engagement. As a result of this engagement, the starter strip may be inverted to begin installation of the siding strips at the top of a wall or other stable mounting structure while fully retaining its functionality.