Abstract: This invention is directed to a high pressure process for preparing a laminate structure comprised of a fiber cementboard core having laminated to at least one surface thereof at least one intermediate resin impregnated paper sheet or lamina and a decorative resin impregnated paper sheet or lamina. The process comprises forming an assembly comprised of a fiber cementboard core having superimposed on at least one surface thereof at least one intermediate resin impregnated paper sheet and a decorative resin impregnated paper sheet, and subjecting said assembly to a temperature of at least about 100.degree. C. and a pressure of at least about 500 psi for a time effective to laminate said assembly.

Abstract: A hardboard lapped siding panel of wet processed wood fibers with substantial variations in density to provide a desired combination of improved characteristics. The panel is molded from a mat of wet wood fibers between a pair of heated upper and lower contoured plates. The upper plate is contoured to form the desired configuration of the front surface of the siding panel. The lower plate is contoured to provide the desired variations in density other improved characteristics of the panel. Preferably, the mat is molded on an underlying wire screen with a contour which is essentially the same as the contour of the lower plate.