Caulking Cedar Shake Siding

If i am installing a prefinished product which i do mostly i use a color osi match caulk.

Caulking cedar shake siding.

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. When you try to restrict either it is at your peril. 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.

The siding expands and contracts with temperature and humidity. Recommendations for caulks are located on page 10. Natural siding boards are designed to expand and contract with the elements and we do not want any adhesive to prevent their natural movement. Left unstained cedar s red hue will fade to gray within about a year.

It needs to move and breathe. 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. Width is a matter of taste and proper proportion. It performs excellently for shutting out the moisture during heavy rains and bars pests and mold from gaining a stronghold.

The corner boards and the ends of the siding are nailed to the corner studs which anchors the wood for a maintenance free joint. For curb appeal that will make your house stand out in the neighborhood consider installing shingle siding. Other technical resources can be found elsewhere on their website. The answer depends on the manufacturer and installation method used when the siding was first installed.

I m not a painter but i do install cedar siding and i always caulk all the joints. Caulk by its adhesive nature will try to limit this movement leading to widespread failure and cracking in the caulk over time. The western red cedar lumber association publishes a number of downloadable booklets concerning the design installation and finishing of cedar siding. Below is a link to their installation guide.

The best caulk for cedar siding has unique properties that keep it looking great and structurally intact for a long time. Although cedar shingles take more time to install than most other types of siding they lend a rich textured look to your exterior. 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. 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.