Fastening Cedar Siding

By Robert Robillard on Workshop tips

Choosing The Best Fastener For Exterior Wood

Stainless steel nails are the best choice when fastening Cedar siding, especially if the siding is to be finished with transparent or semitransparent stain.

Grades of Stainless Steel

Many people are not aware the stainless steel fasteners come in different grades.
  • No. 304 stainless for general siding applications
  • No. 316 for coastal exposures
Flashing cedar siding joints

Fastening Cedar Siding

Ring shank nails hold better:

For proper holding and nice looking results I suggest you use “split less” ring shank siding nails.
These stainless steel nails have thin shanks and blunt points to reduce splitting.
 
As with most applications hand nailing in framing always gives the installed the most control and is often preferable than using a pneumatic nailer.
 
Hand nailing is preferred:
 
When using a pneumatic nailer installers many time’s fail to install their nails into framing members which will often result in nails popping out over time.
 
Proper nail length:
 
Use nails long enough so that they penetrate solid wood sheathing and into framing a minimum of 1 ¼ inches.

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About the author

Robert Robillard

Carpenter / Remodeler / Editor

Rob Robillard is “The Concord Carpenter” Rob is a builder, general contractor, carpenter, woodworker, and editor of Concord Carpenter and ToolBoxBuzz As a General Contractor and carpenter, Rob owns and operates Concord Carpenter LLC. A full-service remodeling and construction company. Rob is a recognized leader in home building best practices and a source for how-to information for building professionals. On this website, Rob covers all aspects of home construction, building science, home improvement, woodworking, remodeling, and some of the best product and tool reviews. Rob is in charge of our Tool and Product Review series - Concord Carpenter Videos where we post all of our tool reviews and video tutorials. Rob approaches remodeling and building construction with a pragmatic and problem-solving approach. He enjoys using his knowledge and experience to help and educate building professionals as well as DIYers on best practices in the construction and remodeling industry. He's a strong advocate for "raising the bar" in the construction trades and promoting the trades to youth. #BeAMentor #Green2Great Craftsmanship, quality, and pride guide his journey on this channel The Concord Carpenter's motto: "Well done is better than well said!" : Read more about Rob

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