Am getting ready to install 3/8 inch thick OSB lap siding on my home. House has been newly sheathed, wrapped, etc. However, I am looking for more experienced information on nailing options and gapping info between siding boards.

Boards are 8 inches wide, 16 feet long, 3/8 inch thick. What are acceptable, or best, nailing options? Obviously hit a stud if you can : )... but what about nail size, length, etc. I would love to use my 15 Gauge finishing nailer if possible to speed up the work, but will these nails be heavy duty enough? Or will I have to do it the old fashioned way and buy a heavier nail and break out the old hammer? I did use it for the trim around windows and doors, and all seemed to hold up nicely, but the length of the siding and its weight concerns me.

Also, what are acceptable gappings between boards, or where the siding meets with the vertical trim? Or, should they be butted up snugly and then caulked?

Any info is greatly appreciated, and if you can help me hold out summer a little longer, well, that'd be great too!

Thanks,

Buckhowie

 

Use a 7d siding or shake nail. Hot-dipped galvanized ONLY! Finish nails for a 15ga nailer don't have the holding power and they will rust and bleed thru. A scarf joint (overlapping 25-45 degree cut) is nice but clean butt joints will work if you put a small piece of 15lb asphalt felt paper behind the joint and flush with the bottom. Check the manufacturer's specs re gapping ends.
Good luck.

 

Do not use your air nailer. Use a 7d or 8d galvanized nail. When nailing you do not want to break the surface of the wood. Only nail flush with siding. See nailing instructions with the siding.

 

Appreciate replies...thanks!

 

You can use an air nailer, just not the type you have. Occasionally you may have a nail break the surface - no big deal - just neatly smear some caulking over the nail head to seal the hole.