Cedar shake siding is a popular choice for homeowners and builders due to its natural beauty, durability, and eco-friendly characteristics. When installing cedar shake siding, using the correct nails is essential to ensure the longevity and stability of your project. In this article, we’ll explore the technical details surrounding nailguns and discuss the best practices for choosing and using the right nails for cedar shake siding.

Understanding Cedar Shake Siding

Before delving into the specifics of nails, let’s briefly discuss cedar shake siding. Cedar shakes are thin, tapered wooden shingles that are applied horizontally to the exterior of a building. They create a charming, rustic appearance and can last for decades with proper maintenance. However, using the right nails is critical to prevent issues like premature corrosion, damage, or even siding failure.

The Role of Nailguns

Nailguns, also known as pneumatic nailers, are indispensable tools for securing cedar shake siding. These tools expedite the installation process and provide a consistent, reliable attachment of shakes to the building’s structure. There are various types of nailguns available, such as framing nailers, roofing nailers, and siding nailers. When working with cedar shakes, it’s essential to choose the right nailgun for the job.

Choosing the Right Nails

Selecting the correct nails is crucial for a successful cedar shake siding project. Here are some factors to consider:

1. Material: Opt for nails made of stainless steel, hot-dipped galvanized steel, or aluminum. These materials offer excellent corrosion resistance, which is vital when working with cedar shakes that are exposed to the elements.

2. Length and Diameter: The ideal nail length will depend on the thickness of your cedar shakes and the underlying substrate. In most cases, nails should be at least 1.5 times the thickness of the shakes. For cedar shakes that are 1/2-inch thick, a 1.25-inch to 1.5-inch nail is appropriate.

3. Head Type: Cedar shake siding requires nails with a smaller, thin head to prevent splitting the wood. Look for nails with a shingle or siding nail head design.

4. Ring Shank: Consider nails with a ring or spiral shank. These provide a superior grip, reducing the chances of shakes loosening over time.

5. Coating: Nails with a special coating, like resin or lubrication, can ease installation and enhance the nail’s ability to resist rust and corrosion.

Nailgun Operation Tips

When using a nailgun for cedar shake siding, follow these guidelines:

1. Adjust the Air Pressure: Different nailguns may require varying air pressure levels. Refer to the manufacturer’s guidelines and adjust the pressure accordingly.

2. Angle and Depth: Hold the nailgun perpendicular to the cedar shakes and ensure that the nails penetrate the shakes and substrate without overdriving or underdriving them.

3. Spacing: Properly space nails, typically about 1.5 to 2 inches from the edge of the shakes and 3 to 4 inches apart vertically.

4. Safety: Always wear appropriate safety gear, including eye protection and ear protection, when operating a nailgun.

Conclusion

Selecting the right nails and using the appropriate nailgun for cedar shake siding is crucial for achieving a beautiful and long-lasting finish. Understanding the technical details of nailguns, nail materials, and installation practices is essential to ensure the success of your cedar shake siding project. By following these guidelines, both professional contractors and DIY enthusiasts can achieve a sturdy and aesthetically pleasing result that will stand the test of time.