Importance

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Abstract

A siding system including interlocking panels for installation on a support surface. Each panel has opposing top and bottom edges, and adjacent panels are interlocking at least one location between their top and bottom edges. The panels are supported by projections extending from their rear faces against movement toward the support surface when installed. The panels simulate an arranged plurality of individual building elements such as bricks or stones, and have a variegated appearance. A system for creating the panels is also provided that includes a conveyance by which a panel is conveyed through a plurality of coating stations at which a plurality of different coatings are applied. The plurality of applicators are configured to dispense at least two different coatings onto the panels as the panels move along the conveyor. The panels with patterns of different coatings applied is then conveyed to a wiping station at which the patterns of applied coating patterns are smeared to achieve a variegated appearance as a wiping or blending device spreads and mixes or blends the plurality different coatings onto the decorative face of the panels. The panels are then conducted through a curing station wherein the smeared coating is cured. A method for making the panels is also provided. The method includes dispensing at least two different coatings onto the panels and blending the coatings together on the panels to give the panels an variegated appearance simulating building elements such as brick or stone.

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First Claim