Nailing cedar clapboard siding is a common task in construction and home improvement projects. Using a nail gun for this purpose can significantly speed up the process and ensure a secure attachment. In this article, we’ll provide clear and concise instructions on how to properly nail cedar clapboard siding with a nail gun.

1. Choose the Right Nail Gun

Selecting the appropriate nail gun for nailing cedar clapboard siding is essential. A siding nailer, also known as a coil siding nail gun, is the ideal tool for this job. These nailers are specifically designed for siding applications and feature a magazine that holds plastic or wire-collated nails, typically 1-1/4 to 2-1/2 inches in length.

2. Prepare Your Work Surface

Before you begin nailing, make sure the cedar clapboard siding is properly installed over a sheathing or underlayment. The surface should be level and free of any debris or obstacles that could hinder your work.

3. Safety First

Wear appropriate safety gear, including safety glasses and hearing protection. Nail guns can be loud, and safety glasses protect your eyes from any potential debris.

4. Nail Placement

Position the nail gun so that the nails will penetrate the cedar clapboard and firmly attach it to the underlying sheathing. The nails should be spaced approximately 16 inches apart vertically, and 1 inch from the top edge of the clapboard. Keep them roughly 2 inches from the board’s bottom edge to prevent splitting.

5. Set the Nail Depth

Adjust the nail gun’s depth control to ensure that the nails are driven to the right depth. Ideally, the nails should be flush with the surface of the cedar clapboard. Proper depth control helps prevent over-penetration, which can damage the material, and under-penetration, which can result in loose or weak attachments.

6. Firing Mode

Most siding nailers have two firing modes: sequential and bump firing. For precision work like nailing cedar clapboard siding, use the sequential firing mode. This mode requires you to depress the safety tip and pull the trigger for each nail, ensuring precise placement.

7. Maintain a Consistent Angle

Hold the nail gun at a slight downward angle, typically around 10-15 degrees from the horizontal. This helps prevent water from pooling on the nail heads and potentially causing rust or other damage over time.

8. Keep Your Work Area Clean

Clear away any wood debris, sawdust, or nails that might obstruct your nailing path. This ensures that each nail is properly driven into the siding.

Conclusion

Nailing cedar clapboard siding with a nail gun is an efficient and effective way to secure this attractive and durable siding material. The key is to use the right nail gun, maintain proper safety precautions, and pay attention to nail placement, depth, angle, and spacing. By following these steps, you can achieve a professional finish and ensure the long-term durability of your cedar clapboard siding. Whether you’re a seasoned contractor or a DIY enthusiast, this method can save you time and effort on your siding projects.