Cedar Siding Nailing Pattern

There are some misconceptions about hidden fastening methods that pose more risk than benefit.

Cedar siding nailing pattern.

For siding up to 6 inches wide use one nail one inch up from the lap. Renail the siding keeping the new nail in the center of the nailing slot and leaving it about 1 16 in. Some patterns require a face nail while on others we can hide the nail. Western red cedar exterior siding or cladding comes in a spectrum of patterns including the one that is just right for your home s style and your budget.

Siding patterns wood siding pattern diagrams and pictures multiple patterns including t g lap bevel ship lap channel lap dutch lap log cabin and more. Lift the siding up and look for nails that have been hammered in too tightly. For best results with rigid foam and other sheathing products follow the nailing recommen. Loosen the tight nail or cut it with a hacksaw.

Up off the siding. Allow a 1 8 inch expansion gap between pieces if the siding is air or kiln dried. Face nail with two nails per piece for 8 inches patterns and wider keeping nails 2 1 2 to 3 inches apart to allow for dimensional movement without splitting. For specific western red cedar siding grades please visit the siding grading page.

Tongue and groove siding can be installed horizontally or vertically. Nail placement depends on the siding pattern and width the key is to fasten the siding securely without preventing it from moving in response to the moisture. Do not nail through overlaps. In horizontal application start at the bottom and work up with the groove edges facing downwards.

Siding up to 6 inches wide can be blind nailed with one siding nail per bearing toe nailed through the base of each tongue. Rabbeted patterns are self spacing but leave 1 8 inch expansion clearance. When nailing the bottoms of clapboards make sure to keep the nail high enough from the bottom to clear the top of the previous siding course. Where possible the bottom of the board that is placed across the top of the windows should coincide with the window cap.

Rigid foam sheathing as a nailing base for cedar siding is not recommended. Nailing both top and bottom is unnecessary and in fact may cause splitting as you point out.