Caulking Cedar Shake Siding

For curb appeal that will make your house stand out in the neighborhood consider installing shingle siding.

Caulking cedar shake siding.

Recommendations for caulks are located on page 10. Butyl rubber is sometimes recommended for exterior siding since it s a specialty outdoor caulk that can withstand changes in temperature and repeated exposure to the elements but you can choose any exterior caulk that will bond to your siding just make sure to read the labels and spot check on an unseen portion of your siding to make sure. The siding expands and contracts with temperature and humidity. The best caulk for cedar siding has unique properties that keep it looking great and structurally intact for a long time.

The answer depends on the manufacturer and installation method used when the siding was first installed. While cedar stands up to the elements fairly well on its own putting a seal or a coat of paint on it can enhance the color and protect the wood from inclement weather. The corner boards and the ends of the siding are nailed to the corner studs which anchors the wood for a maintenance free joint. It performs excellently for shutting out the moisture during heavy rains and bars pests and mold from gaining a stronghold.

Natural siding boards are designed to expand and contract with the elements and we do not want any adhesive to prevent their natural movement. If i am installing a prefinished product which i do mostly i use a color osi match caulk. If i install a non finished product i usually go with a 3m paintable caulk. Left unstained cedar s red hue will fade to gray within about a year.

When you try to restrict either it is at your peril. I m not a painter but i do install cedar siding and i always caulk all the joints. Generally we do not recommend caulking butt joints on cedar siding. The wood s structural integrity will remain unless the wood is exposed to excessive moisture which can cause curling cracking and wood rot.

Also it is versatile so that you can use it for windows sinks and other areas in and around the. Other technical resources can be found elsewhere on their website. If you re thinking of installing shingle siding it s important to note that this option can be used only if the sheathing is boards plywood or osb. Caulk by its adhesive nature will try to limit this movement leading to widespread failure and cracking in the caulk over time.

Width is a matter of taste and proper proportion. Corner boards are applied to the sheathing with siding fitting tightly against the narrow edge of the boards allowing for expansion and an adequate caulking bead. It needs to move and breathe. Below is a link to their installation guide.