Selecting the right nails for cedar shake siding is crucial to ensure a secure and long-lasting installation. In this guide, we’ll dive into the technical details, helping both professionals and DIY enthusiasts choose the best nails for the job.

Understanding the Cedar Shake Siding

Cedar shake siding is a classic and durable choice for homes, known for its natural beauty and resilience. To maintain these qualities, it’s essential to choose nails that can withstand exposure to the elements.

Nail Material

The material of the nail is a key consideration. For cedar shake siding, stainless steel, hot-dipped galvanized steel, and aluminum nails are common choices:

• Stainless Steel Nails: Highly resistant to corrosion, making them ideal for coastal and high-humidity areas. They maintain their appearance over time and won’t stain the wood.

• Hot-Dipped Galvanized Steel Nails: These are economically viable and suitable for most environments. Be sure to use galvanized nails that meet ASTM A153 standards for better corrosion resistance.

• Aluminum Nails: Lightweight and corrosion-resistant, these are ideal if you want nails that blend seamlessly with the wood’s color.

Nail Size

The nail size should align with the thickness of your cedar shake siding. Common sizes range from 1.5 inches to 2.5 inches in length, with longer nails used for thicker shakes.

Nail Coating

Coated nails provide additional protection against corrosion. The main coating types are:

• Electro-galvanized Nails: Coated with a thin layer of zinc, they are suitable for interior applications.

• Hot-Dipped Galvanized Nails: These nails have a thicker zinc coating and are more suitable for exterior use.

• Mechanically Galvanized Nails: These are highly corrosion-resistant and are an excellent choice for coastal areas and high-humidity environments.

Nail Head Style

For cedar shake siding, use nails with smaller, flat heads. These heads ensure a clean, flush finish, preserving the wood’s natural appearance. Finish or siding nails typically have smaller heads compared to common framing nails.

Using the Right Nail Gun

If you’re using a nail gun for cedar shake siding, ensure it’s compatible with the nail size and type you’ve selected. Different nail guns are designed for specific applications, so choose one that accommodates your chosen nails.

Pre-Drilling

Cedar is a softwood, and it’s important to avoid splitting when nailing. In some cases, pre-drilling pilot holes for the nails may be necessary, especially when working near the edges of the wood or close to the ends of the shakes.

Conclusion

Selecting the best nails for cedar shake siding involves considering factors like material, size, coating, nail head style, and the compatibility with your nail gun. These technical details are essential to ensure a successful siding installation that not only looks beautiful but also stands the test of time. Whether you’re a professional or a DIY enthusiast, making the right nail choice is crucial for your cedar shake siding project’s success.