When it comes to installing vertical cedar siding, choosing the right nailgun and mastering the correct nailing techniques are crucial to ensure a sturdy and aesthetically pleasing outcome. In this article, we’ll explore the technical details of nailguns and provide a step-by-step guide for nailing vertical cedar siding, catering to both technical experts and those new to the world of construction.
Understanding Nailguns
Before diving into the nailing techniques, let’s examine the key features and classifications of nailguns:
Types of Nailguns
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Pneumatic Nailguns: These are the most commonly used nailguns in construction. They rely on compressed air to drive nails into the wood. They come in various styles, including framing nailers, finish nailers, and brad nailers.
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Cordless Nailguns: Powered by rechargeable batteries, cordless nailguns offer greater mobility but may have slightly less power compared to pneumatic nailguns. They are often used for smaller projects.
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Gas-Powered Nailguns: These use a small internal combustion engine to drive nails, making them versatile and suitable for various applications.
Nailgun Nomenclature
It’s essential to understand the terminology associated with nailguns:
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Gauge: Refers to the thickness of the nail wire. For vertical cedar siding, 15 or 16-gauge nails are typically recommended.
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Angle: Nailguns are categorized by the angle at which they drive nails, with the most common angles being 21°, 28°, 30°, and 34°. For siding, a 15° wire-collated nailer is often preferred.
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Collation: Nails can be collated in various ways, including wire-collated or paper-collated. Choose wire-collated nails for vertical cedar siding.
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Magazine Type: Depending on the nail size and capacity, nailguns come with different magazine types, such as stick, coil, or strip.
Nailing Techniques for Vertical Cedar Siding
Now, let’s explore the nailing techniques to achieve a professional finish when installing vertical cedar siding:
1. Proper Nail Selection
Select stainless steel or hot-dipped galvanized nails to prevent rust and staining on the cedar siding. The nail length should be sufficient to penetrate the siding and the sheathing by at least 1 1/2 inches.
2. Nailing Pattern
- Place nails near the top edge of each siding board, approximately 1 inch below the overlap. This conceals the nails while ensuring a secure hold.
- Space nails about 16 inches apart vertically and aim for the center of the siding board’s width.
3. Angle and Depth
Set your nailgun to drive nails at a slight angle, typically around 10-15 degrees. This helps prevent splitting and provides a stronger hold. Adjust the depth setting to countersink the nails just below the surface of the siding.
4. Starting at the Bottom
Begin nailing at the bottom of the wall, ensuring that the first board is level and plumb. Use a level to maintain a straight and vertical alignment for each board as you work your way up.
5. Careful Placement
Avoid nailing too close to the edges of the siding, as this can lead to splitting. Stay at least 2 inches away from the ends and edges.
6. Maintain Consistency
Consistency is key. Keep an even spacing and angle throughout the entire installation to achieve a clean and professional look.
7. Finishing Touch
When you reach the top of the wall, measure and cut the final board to fit. Use a circular saw to make a clean, precise cut.
Conclusion
Nailing vertical cedar siding is a precise and technical task, but with the right nailgun and proper techniques, it becomes more manageable. Remember to select the appropriate nailgun, use the correct nails, and employ the recommended nailing techniques to achieve a beautiful, long-lasting finish on your vertical cedar siding project. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or a DIY enthusiast, these guidelines will help you master the art of nailing for vertical cedar siding.