Ways to nail down cedar sales

F EOnn siding has the reputation of being easy to \, work with and highly resistant to splitting, but a retailer should be sure to specify the nails needed to achieve the best results.

Stainless steel, high tensile strength aluminum and high quality hot dipped galvanized are the recommended types of nails, since they do not cause discoloration. In addition to being rust resistant, preferably rust proof, nails used with cedar should not cause splitting even when driven near the end or edge of siding.

They should have adequate strength to avoid the need for pre-drilling and be able to be driven easily and rapidly. A nail should not emerge or "pop" at any time after being driven flush with siding. The nail head should not cause an unsightly, visible pattern on the sidewall.

The Western Red Cedar Lumber Association also recommends using a ring threaded or spiral threaded nail shank for increased holding power. Blunt, diamond or needle nail points are most commonly used. The blunt reduces splitting while the needle holds well although it tends to increase splitting. Diamond point nails are most commonly used. A blunt or medium diamond and a blunt or medium needle point with a ring threaded shank are recommended for the best possible holding power with the least splitting.

Although stainless steel nails are the number I recommendation, high tensile strength aluminum nails because they are corrosive resistant will not discolor or deteriorate wood siding.

Hot dipped galvanized nails, although they usually do not cause discoloration, often vary in coating protection, thus presenting a potential problem.

Installation recommendations call for 10d (3") siding nails on the outer boards or battens of a board and batten, board on board or clapboard pattern with 8d (2-1/2") nails used on inner boards. Channel rustic patterns require 8d siding nails for 6" widths. Bevel patterns use 6d (2") siding nails. Tongue & groove patterns use 6d finish nails for 6" widths or less. Wider widths require 8d siding nails.

Story at a Glance

Nails recommended for best results with cedar . Types, sizes, shank and points suitable for various iobs suggestions for helping customers understand the importance of proper selection.