How to Install Shiplap Siding Part 2

Shiplap siding has become more popular in recent years due to its natural wood look, ease of installation, and weatherproof design. Many people are forgoing the look of vinyl siding for something that gives their home a little more character and definition. In the first part of this series on installing shiplap siding, you were presented with the preliminary steps that you should take. In this second part, you will not begin to install the siding around your home.

Step 1 - Mark Studs

Before you start cutting into your shiplap siding you must know where they are going to be nailed. This is important if you want to make sure that the siding is secure and stable. Use a stud finder and go over the surface of the wall. Mark off all of the stud locations with a marker. Use a chalk line and run a line vertically along each stud so you will know each location as you work your way up the surface of the home.

Step 2 - Caulk Outside Edge

Using a caulking gun, load a tube of silicone caulk into it. Place a bead of silicone along the outside edge of the surface area. This will also be needed along with any door frames, window installations, overhangs, or any other obstruction. This will keep the shiplap siding watertight along its edges.

Step 3 - Pre-Drill Siding

One of the biggest mistakes that people make when they are installing shiplap siding is that they nail the siding without any type of pre-drilling. Taking the time to pre-drill each piece of siding will keep the siding from cracking or splitting. Once a split happens you will have to use a new piece. The integrity of the wood will be broken and it will eventually leak. Set the piece of siding on the wall and mark where the studs are located. Use a drill bit that is slightly smaller than the diameter of the galvanized nail and drill into the siding where you marked the studs. Each stud location will need to have at least three nail holes. Line up each hole in a uniform manner for aesthetics.

Step 4 - Lay First Plank

Now you are ready for the tricky part of the entire installation. For each of the walls that you install the shiplap siding on, you will need to go through the same meticulous procedure to ensure correct installation. The first plank of siding is going to be the most important. Start at the bottom corner of your surface area. Get as close to the foundation as you can without letting the siding overhang. Place a level on the first board and maneuver it until it is perfectly level. Do not let the bottom overhang, rather use the corner as a pivot and move the board until it is level. If there is a small overhang, use the jigsaw to cut it off after you have secured it with the nails. Press the board into the caulking and nail with ribbed galvanized nails. Keep the heads flush with the board and be careful not to strike the siding with the hammerhead.