Abstract: A method and apparatus (10) is provided for producing vinyl siding (76) having aesthetically pleasing, wood-like striations embedded therein. Apparatus (10) includes processing structure (12) for processing topcoat compound and substrate compound extruders (18, 20) respectively. Acrylic colorant is discharged from feeders (64, 66) into barrel (34) via adapter (72) and thereby mixed with the topcoat compound. The interval of discharge is four seconds every twenty seconds. Adapter (72) utilizes a water jacket to keep colorant cool prior to its introduction into barrel (34) where it experiences a temperature sufficient for melting, usually about 380.degree. F. Due to the interval of discharge and the twenty second period thereof, striations (82) are uniform and continuous in nature so as to simulate wood grain.

Abstract: A method and apparatus (10) is provided for producing vinyl siding (76) having aesthetically pleasing, wood-like striations embedded therein. Apparatus (10) includes processing structure (12) for processing topcoat compound and substrate compound at extruders (18, 20) respectively. Acrylic colorant is discharged from feeders (64, 66) into barrel (34) via adapter (72) and thereby mixed with the topcoat compound. The interval of discharge is four seconds every twenty seconds. Adapter (72) utilizes a water jacket to keep colorant cool prior to its introduction into barrel (34) where it experiences a temperature sufficient for melting, usually about 380.degree. F. Due to the interval of discharge and the twenty second period thereof, striations (82) are uniform and continuous in nature so as to simulate wood grain.