Cedar siding is a timeless and elegant choice for cladding, known for its natural beauty and durability. When installing cedar siding, selecting the right nails is crucial to ensure longevity and a secure installation. In this guide, we’ll provide clear and concise information about the technical details of nails suitable for cedar siding.

1. Material Matters

Cedar Siding: Cedar is a softwood with natural oils that resist decay and insect damage. Nails chosen for cedar siding should complement these properties.

2. Nail Types for Cedar Siding

When it comes to cedar siding, there are two primary nail options to consider:

• Stainless Steel Nails: Stainless steel nails are highly corrosion-resistant and ideal for use with cedar siding, as they won’t react with the wood’s natural oils and tannins.

• Hot-Dipped Galvanized Nails: Hot-dipped galvanized nails are another suitable option. They undergo a galvanizing process that provides corrosion resistance, making them an affordable alternative.

3. Nail Length and Diameter

Choosing the right nail length and diameter is essential for a secure attachment to cedar siding:

• Length: Nails should be long enough to penetrate through the siding and into the underlying structure. Typical nail lengths range from 1.25 to 2.5 inches for cedar siding.

• Diameter: A nail diameter of around 0.113 inches (11-gauge) is commonly used for cedar siding. Thicker nails can provide better holding power.

4. Nail Head Types

Select nails with the appropriate head style, which can affect the aesthetics of your cedar siding:

• Flat Head Nails: Flat head nails are ideal for a clean and inconspicuous finish, leaving a smooth surface on the cedar siding.

• Ring Shank Nails: Ring shank nails have ridges along their shank, providing enhanced grip and resistance to withdrawal. They are recommended for areas prone to high winds.

5. Installation Tips

Here are some crucial tips for installing nails in cedar siding:

• Spacing: Space nails at even intervals, typically around 6 to 8 inches apart along the horizontal edges of the siding and 12 to 16 inches apart along the vertical studs. This ensures even support and minimizes the risk of warping.

• Pre-Drilling: For thicker cedar siding or near edges to prevent splitting, consider pre-drilling pilot holes using a drill bit slightly smaller in diameter than the nails.

• Angle of Insertion: Drive nails into the cedar siding at a slight angle to prevent splitting and to provide a better grip.

Conclusion

Choosing the right nails for cedar siding is pivotal for a successful and long-lasting installation. Stainless steel or hot-dipped galvanized nails, of the appropriate length and diameter, with flat or ring shanks, are the best choices. Follow recommended installation practices to ensure your cedar siding project is both beautiful and enduring.