Cedar shake impression siding is a popular choice for homeowners seeking a rustic and natural look for their exteriors. When installing this type of siding, it’s crucial to understand the correct nailing techniques. This article will provide clear and concise guidance on how loose cedar shake impression siding should be nailed to ensure durability and an attractive finish.

1. Choosing the Right Nail Gun

Before diving into the nailing specifics, let’s briefly discuss the types of nail guns commonly used for cedar shake impression siding installation. Two primary nail guns work well for this purpose:

• Roofing Nail Gun: A roofing nail gun, equipped with coil nails, is ideal for fastening cedar shake impression siding. These guns are pneumatic and make the job quick and efficient.

• Siding Nail Gun: A siding nail gun, using plastic or wire-collated nails, offers precision and is well-suited for more intricate installations. It’s particularly useful when working near corners, windows, or doors.

2. Nail Spacing

Proper nail spacing is essential for the longevity of your cedar shake impression siding. For most applications, a spacing of 6 to 8 inches along the length of each shake is recommended. This ensures that the siding is secure without causing excessive stress on the wood, which can lead to splitting.

3. Nail Position

The position of the nails is equally important. When nailing cedar shake impression siding, aim for the thickest part of the wood, avoiding the thin edges. This not only provides better hold but also minimizes the risk of splitting. Place nails about 1 inch from the edge of the shake, ensuring they penetrate the underlying sheathing.

4. Angle and Depth

When using a nail gun, insert the nails at a slight downward angle. This helps prevent water from pooling on top of the shakes, reducing the risk of rot and moisture damage. For cedar shake impression siding, the nails should be driven to a depth where they are flush with the surface, neither too deep nor too proud.

5. Allow for Expansion and Contraction

Cedar shake impression siding is a natural material that expands and contracts with changes in temperature and humidity. To accommodate this movement, it’s crucial to allow some "looseness" in your nailing. Nails should be snug but not overly tight. This permits the wood to move without causing warping or splitting.

6. Nailing Patterns

The nailing pattern plays a significant role in maintaining the aesthetic appeal of cedar shake impression siding. While the exact pattern can vary, most professionals recommend the "Staggered" pattern. This involves overlapping each row of shakes with the one above it, with the nails hidden behind the upper row. This provides a clean and seamless appearance.

Conclusion

Installing cedar shake impression siding correctly is a combination of technique and attention to detail. Ensuring the siding is nailed with the right spacing, position, angle, and depth is essential for its longevity and performance. Remember to allow for natural expansion and contraction, and follow a staggered nailing pattern to maintain an attractive finish.

Whether you’re a seasoned contractor or a DIY enthusiast, understanding how loose cedar shake impression siding should be nailed is critical to the success of your project. With the right nailing techniques and a good nail gun, you can achieve a beautiful and durable exterior that will stand the test of time.