Caulking Cedar Siding Seams

When deciding how to use caulk on your siding however it is generally more important to consider where you should not use it.

Caulking cedar siding seams.

Don t use a filler like wood filler as it will not move with the cedar siding. Because the staing will tint the caulk slightly. Grumpy chicago gutters. Use around sinks tubs and showers.

If i am installing a prefinished product which i do mostly i use a color osi match caulk. The answer depends on the manufacturer and installation method used when the siding was first installed. If overused or incorrectly placed siding caulk can cause more damage to your exterior than good. It is generally not a good idea to use caulking on wood siding.

Natural siding boards are designed to expand and contract with the elements and we do not want any adhesive to prevent their natural movement. In my opinion caulking between the seams in any lapped siding either horizontal or vertical is not good practice but not just because of any potential vapor barrier effect. The siding expands and contracts with temperature and humidity. Caulking around windows doors eaves and trim edges gives added insurance that leaks will not occur.

Think of a wood home as a living thing. Generally we do not recommend caulking butt joints on cedar siding. When james hardie siding products butt into wood based materials a 1 8 gap will allow for expansion and contraction of the wood based product. Paintable silicone caulk can be used around the outside of window units to properly seal the window and the siding edge or around the entire door unit.

It needs to move and breathe. If i install a non finished product i usually go with a 3m paintable caulk. Use when installing bath fixtures to seal gaps between shower tiles between sinks and counters and around the base of the toilet.