Caulking Cedar Siding Seams

Think of a wood home as a living thing.

Caulking cedar siding seams.

Generally we do not recommend caulking butt joints on cedar siding. Don t use a filler like wood filler as it will not move with the cedar siding. If i am installing a prefinished product which i do mostly i use a color osi match caulk. 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.

Because the staing will tint the caulk slightly. Siding caulk can be used on several different areas of your exterior siding to help prevent water damage and moisture buildup. Nichiha panels bring the look of wood stone brick metal more to your commercial or residential projects with high performance fiber cement. The siding expands and contracts with temperature and humidity.

Natural siding boards are designed to expand and contract with the elements and we do not want any adhesive to prevent their natural movement. Me i would powerwash the house let dry overnight caulk the seams and around the edges with cedar colored caulk then stain. If i install a non finished product i usually go with a 3m paintable caulk. Slabs path steps to siding figure 7 deck to wall figure 8 ground to siding figure 9 gutter to siding figure 12 drip edge figure 13 block penetration figure 14 valley shingle extension min.

I m not a painter but i do install cedar siding and i always caulk all the joints. James hardie recommends the use of caulks and sealants that remain permanently flexible. Do not caulk extend shingles at least 1 in. Out from the fascia.

Grumpy chicago gutters. It needs to move and breathe.