Cedar Shake Siding Installation

Cedar shake siding, with its rustic charm and natural beauty, is a popular choice for homeowners looking to add character and curb appeal to their homes. However, installing cedar shake siding is a project that requires careful planning, attention to detail, and a good understanding of construction techniques. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the entire process, from preparing the wall surface to applying the finishing touches, ensuring a successful and long-lasting installation. Whether you’re a seasoned DIYer or a homeowner looking to understand the intricacies of this project, this article will provide you with the knowledge and confidence to tackle cedar shake siding installation.

Section 1: Understanding Cedar Shake Siding

Before diving into the installation process, it’s essential to understand the different types of cedar shake siding available and their characteristics. Cedar shakes are typically made from Western Red Cedar, known for its durability, natural resistance to decay and insects, and beautiful grain patterns. They are sawn or split from cedar logs and come in various thicknesses, lengths, and widths. The choice of cedar shake siding will depend on your aesthetic preferences, budget, and the specific requirements of your project.

Types of Cedar Shakes

There are primarily two types of cedar shakes: hand-split shakes and sawn shakes. Hand-split shakes, as the name suggests, are split from cedar logs using a froe and mallet. This process creates a more rustic and irregular appearance, with each shake having a unique texture and character. Sawn shakes, on the other hand, are sawn from cedar logs using a saw. This results in a smoother and more uniform appearance. Within these two categories, there are further variations in thickness and taper, which affect the overall look and performance of the siding.

Hand-Split Shakes

Hand-split shakes are the most rustic type of cedar shake siding. They have a rough, textured surface and a variable thickness, typically ranging from 1/2 inch to 3/4 inch. The irregular edges and natural variations in the wood grain create a distinctive and charming appearance. Hand-split shakes are often used in traditional or historical homes to maintain an authentic look. They are also a good choice for homeowners who prefer a more natural and less uniform aesthetic.

Sawn Shakes

Sawn shakes are produced by sawing cedar logs into individual shakes. This process results in a smoother and more uniform surface compared to hand-split shakes. Sawn shakes are typically available in a variety of thicknesses, ranging from 3/8 inch to 5/8 inch. They are a popular choice for modern and contemporary homes, as well as for homeowners who prefer a cleaner and more refined look. Sawn shakes are also generally easier to install than hand-split shakes, due to their consistent dimensions.

Grades of Cedar Shakes

Cedar shakes are also graded based on their quality and appearance. The most common grades are:

• Premium Grade: This is the highest grade of cedar shake, free from knots, defects, and imperfections. Premium grade shakes are ideal for projects where appearance is paramount.
• Number 1 Grade: This grade allows for a few minor knots and imperfections, but the shakes are still of high quality and suitable for most siding applications.
• Number 2 Grade: This grade allows for more knots and imperfections, but the shakes are still structurally sound and can be used in less visible areas or for accent applications.
• Number 3 Grade: This is the lowest grade of cedar shake, with the most knots and imperfections. These shakes are typically used for sheathing or other non-structural applications.

Choosing the right grade of cedar shake siding will depend on your budget and the desired appearance of your home. For most residential siding applications, Number 1 grade is a good balance between quality and cost.

Benefits of Cedar Shake Siding

Cedar shake siding offers numerous benefits that make it a desirable choice for homeowners:

• Natural Beauty: Cedar shake siding adds a unique and timeless aesthetic to any home. The natural grain patterns and variations in color create a warm and inviting appearance.
• Durability: Cedar is a naturally durable wood that is resistant to decay, insects, and moisture. With proper maintenance, cedar shake siding can last for decades.
• Weather Resistance: Cedar shake siding provides excellent protection against the elements, including wind, rain, snow, and sun. The overlapping layers of shakes create a barrier that helps to keep your home dry and comfortable.
• Insulation: Cedar shake siding offers some insulation value, helping to reduce energy costs and improve the comfort of your home.
• Sustainability: Cedar is a renewable resource that is harvested responsibly. Cedar shake siding is a sustainable building material that can help to reduce your environmental impact.

Consider these benefits when deciding if cedar shake siding is the right choice for your home. The natural beauty, durability, and weather resistance of cedar shake make it a valuable investment.

Section 2: Preparing for Installation

Proper preparation is crucial for a successful cedar shake siding installation. This includes assessing the existing wall surface, ensuring proper ventilation, and gathering the necessary tools and materials. Taking the time to prepare thoroughly will help to prevent problems down the road and ensure a long-lasting and aesthetically pleasing result.

Assessing the Existing Wall Surface

Before installing cedar shake siding, it’s important to inspect the existing wall surface for any signs of damage or deterioration. This includes checking for rot, insect infestations, and structural issues. Any necessary repairs should be made before proceeding with the installation. The wall surface should also be clean and free from any debris or obstructions. Remove any old siding, nails, or other materials that could interfere with the installation.

Checking for Rot and Insect Infestations

Rot and insect infestations can compromise the structural integrity of the wall and lead to premature failure of the cedar shake siding. Carefully inspect the wood framing and sheathing for any signs of rot or insect damage. Probe the wood with a screwdriver or awl to check for soft spots or hollow areas. If you find any evidence of rot or insect damage, it’s essential to address the problem before installing the siding. This may involve replacing damaged wood or treating the area with a fungicide or insecticide.

Ensuring a Clean and Smooth Surface

The wall surface should be clean and smooth to ensure proper adhesion of the cedar shake siding. Remove any old siding, nails, or other materials that could interfere with the installation. Use a scraper or wire brush to remove any loose paint or debris. If the wall surface is uneven, you may need to apply a leveling compound to create a smooth and consistent surface. This will help to ensure that the cedar shake siding is properly aligned and secured.

Ensuring Proper Ventilation

Proper ventilation is essential for preventing moisture buildup behind the cedar shake siding. Moisture can lead to rot, mold, and other problems that can damage the siding and the underlying structure of the home. A well-ventilated wall assembly allows moisture to escape, keeping the siding dry and healthy. There are several ways to ensure proper ventilation, including installing a rain screen, using breathable sheathing, and providing adequate air gaps.

Installing a Rain Screen

A rain screen is a gap between the siding and the sheathing that allows air to circulate and dry out any moisture that may penetrate the siding. This is typically achieved by installing vertical furring strips on the sheathing before installing the siding. The furring strips create a space for air to flow, preventing moisture from becoming trapped behind the siding. A rain screen is particularly important in areas with high rainfall or humidity.

Using Breathable Sheathing

Breathable sheathing, such as oriented strand board (OSB) or plywood with a vapor-permeable membrane, allows moisture to escape from the wall assembly. This helps to prevent moisture buildup behind the siding and reduces the risk of rot and mold. Avoid using non-breathable sheathing, such as foil-faced insulation, as this can trap moisture and lead to problems.

Providing Adequate Air Gaps

Ensure that there are adequate air gaps at the top and bottom of the wall assembly to allow for proper ventilation. This can be achieved by installing vents or leaving a small gap between the siding and the soffit or foundation. The air gaps should be sized appropriately to allow for sufficient airflow.

Gathering Tools and Materials

Before starting the installation, gather all the necessary tools and materials. This will help to ensure that the project runs smoothly and efficiently. Here is a list of essential tools and materials for cedar shake siding installation:

Tools

• Measuring tape: For measuring and marking the siding.
• Level: For ensuring that the siding is installed straight and level.
• Saw: For cutting the siding to the correct length and shape. A circular saw or miter saw is recommended.
• Hammer: For driving nails into the siding.
• Nail gun: For faster and more efficient nail installation (optional).
• Utility knife: For cutting roofing felt or other materials.
• Chalk line: For marking straight lines on the wall.
• Caulking gun: For applying caulk around windows, doors, and other openings.
• Safety glasses: For protecting your eyes from debris.
• Gloves: For protecting your hands.
• Ladder or scaffolding: For reaching high areas of the wall.

Materials

• Cedar shake siding: Choose the type and grade of cedar shake that you prefer.
• Roofing felt or vapor barrier: To protect the wall from moisture.
• Nails: Use corrosion-resistant nails specifically designed for cedar siding.
• Furring strips: For creating a rain screen (optional).
• Caulk: Use a high-quality caulk to seal gaps around windows, doors, and other openings.
• Trim boards: For finishing the corners, windows, and doors.

Having all the necessary tools and materials on hand will save you time and frustration during the installation process.

Section 3: Installing Cedar Shake Siding

With the preparation complete, it’s time to begin installing the cedar shake siding. This involves several steps, including applying the roofing felt or vapor barrier, installing the starter course, and overlapping the subsequent courses of siding. It’s important to follow these steps carefully to ensure a proper and long-lasting installation.

Applying Roofing Felt or Vapor Barrier

The first step in installing cedar shake siding is to apply a layer of roofing felt or vapor barrier to the wall surface. This provides a barrier against moisture and helps to protect the wall from water damage. The roofing felt or vapor barrier should be applied horizontally, starting at the bottom of the wall and overlapping each course by at least 6 inches. Use staples or nails to secure the roofing felt or vapor barrier to the wall.

Choosing the Right Material

The choice between roofing felt and a vapor barrier depends on the climate and the specific requirements of your project. Roofing felt is a traditional material that provides good water resistance and breathability. A vapor barrier, on the other hand, is designed to prevent moisture from passing through the wall. In cold climates, a vapor barrier is typically installed on the warm side of the wall to prevent moisture from condensing within the wall assembly. In hot and humid climates, a vapor barrier may not be necessary, and roofing felt may be a better choice.

Overlapping and Securing the Material

When applying the roofing felt or vapor barrier, it’s important to overlap each course by at least 6 inches to ensure a continuous barrier against moisture. Use staples or nails to secure the material to the wall, spacing the fasteners every 12 inches or so. Make sure to overlap the roofing felt or vapor barrier around windows, doors, and other openings to prevent water from entering the wall assembly.

Installing the Starter Course

The starter course is the first row of cedar shake siding that is installed at the bottom of the wall. This course is typically installed with the bottom edge of the shakes aligned with the bottom of the wall. The starter course provides a base for the subsequent courses of siding and helps to ensure that the siding is installed straight and level. It is often doubled for extra protection and a better aesthetic.

Cutting and Installing the Starter Shakes

The starter shakes should be cut to the correct length and shape to fit along the bottom of the wall. Use a saw to cut the shakes to the desired length. The starter shakes may need to be tapered or trimmed to fit around corners or other obstructions. Once the shakes are cut, they can be installed using nails. Use corrosion-resistant nails specifically designed for cedar siding. Drive the nails into the shakes at a slight angle, ensuring that they penetrate the sheathing behind the roofing felt or vapor barrier. Double the starter course for added protection and visual appeal. This often means using a thinner shake or a ripped shake to create the correct reveal.

Ensuring Proper Alignment

It’s important to ensure that the starter course is installed straight and level. Use a level to check the alignment of the shakes as you install them. If necessary, shim the shakes to ensure that they are level. A straight and level starter course is essential for a successful and aesthetically pleasing siding installation.

Overlapping Subsequent Courses

Once the starter course is installed, you can begin installing the subsequent courses of cedar shake siding. Each course of siding should overlap the course below it by a certain amount, known as the “exposure.” The exposure is typically determined by the length of the shakes and the desired aesthetic. A common exposure is 5 to 7 inches.

Determining the Exposure

The exposure is the amount of the cedar shake that is visible after the next course of siding is installed. A smaller exposure will result in a more textured and rustic appearance, while a larger exposure will result in a smoother and more uniform appearance. The exposure should be consistent throughout the entire wall to maintain a uniform look. Consult the manufacturer’s recommendations for the appropriate exposure for your specific type of cedar shake siding.

Nailing the Shakes

When nailing the shakes, use corrosion-resistant nails specifically designed for cedar siding. Drive the nails into the shakes at a slight angle, ensuring that they penetrate the sheathing behind the roofing felt or vapor barrier. Do not drive the nails too deep, as this can damage the shakes. The nails should be flush with the surface of the shakes. Use two nails per shake, placing them about 1 inch from each edge and 1 inch above the exposure line. Proper nailing is crucial for a secure and long-lasting siding installation.

Maintaining Consistent Overlap

It’s important to maintain a consistent overlap between the courses of siding. Use a measuring tape or gauge to ensure that each course overlaps the course below it by the correct amount. A consistent overlap will help to ensure that the siding is properly aligned and that it provides adequate protection against the elements.

Section 4: Finishing Touches

Once the cedar shake siding is installed, there are a few finishing touches that need to be completed. This includes installing trim boards around windows, doors, and corners, caulking any gaps or cracks, and applying a sealant or stain to protect the siding from the elements. These finishing touches will enhance the appearance of the siding and help to ensure its longevity.

Installing Trim Boards

Trim boards are used to finish the edges of the siding around windows, doors, and corners. They provide a clean and professional look and help to protect the siding from damage. The trim boards should be made from a durable and weather-resistant material, such as cedar or PVC. The trim boards should be cut to the correct length and shape and then nailed to the wall using corrosion-resistant nails.

Choosing the Right Trim Material

Cedar is a popular choice for trim boards because it is naturally resistant to decay and insects. PVC trim boards are also a good option because they are durable, weather-resistant, and require little maintenance. Choose a trim material that complements the cedar shake siding and provides the desired aesthetic.

Cutting and Installing the Trim

The trim boards should be cut to the correct length and shape to fit around windows, doors, and corners. Use a saw to cut the trim boards to the desired length. The trim boards may need to be mitered or coped to fit together properly at the corners. Once the trim boards are cut, they can be installed using nails. Use corrosion-resistant nails specifically designed for exterior trim. Drive the nails into the trim boards at a slight angle, ensuring that they penetrate the sheathing behind the siding.

Caulking Gaps and Cracks

Caulking is used to seal any gaps or cracks around windows, doors, and trim boards. This helps to prevent water from entering the wall assembly and protects the siding from damage. Use a high-quality caulk that is specifically designed for exterior use. The caulk should be applied smoothly and evenly, filling any gaps or cracks completely.

Choosing the Right Caulk

Choose a caulk that is compatible with cedar siding and that is resistant to weathering, UV degradation, and mold growth. Acrylic latex caulk is a good option for cedar siding because it is paintable and easy to apply. Silicone caulk is also a good choice because it is highly durable and water-resistant.

Applying the Caulk

Before applying the caulk, clean the surface to remove any dirt, debris, or loose paint. Use a caulk gun to apply the caulk smoothly and evenly, filling any gaps or cracks completely. Smooth the caulk with a wet finger or a caulk smoothing tool to create a neat and professional finish. Allow the caulk to dry completely before painting or staining.

Applying Sealant or Stain

Applying a sealant or stain to the cedar shake siding will help to protect it from the elements and enhance its appearance. A sealant will create a barrier against moisture and UV radiation, while a stain will add color and depth to the wood grain. The choice between a sealant and a stain depends on the desired aesthetic and the level of protection required.

Choosing a Sealant or Stain

Choose a sealant or stain that is specifically designed for cedar siding and that is resistant to weathering, UV degradation, and mold growth. A clear sealant will protect the siding without changing its natural color. A stain will add color and depth to the wood grain, enhancing its natural beauty. Consider the overall aesthetic of your home when choosing a sealant or stain.

Applying the Sealant or Stain

Before applying the sealant or stain, clean the siding to remove any dirt, debris, or loose paint. Use a brush, roller, or sprayer to apply the sealant or stain evenly to the siding. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for application and drying times. Apply multiple coats of sealant or stain for added protection and durability.

Section 5: Maintenance and Care

Proper maintenance and care are essential for ensuring the longevity and beauty of your cedar shake siding. This includes regular cleaning, inspecting for damage, and reapplying sealant or stain as needed. By following these simple maintenance tips, you can keep your cedar shake siding looking its best for years to come.

Regular Cleaning

Regular cleaning will help to remove dirt, debris, and mildew from the cedar shake siding. This will prevent the siding from becoming stained or discolored and will help to extend its lifespan. The siding should be cleaned at least once a year, or more often in areas with high levels of pollution or humidity.

Using a Gentle Cleaning Solution

Use a gentle cleaning solution to avoid damaging the cedar siding. A mixture of mild soap and water is usually sufficient for cleaning cedar shake siding. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, as these can damage the wood. Test the cleaning solution on a small, inconspicuous area of the siding before applying it to the entire surface.

Washing the Siding

Use a soft-bristled brush or sponge to wash the siding. Gently scrub the surface to remove dirt, debris, and mildew. Rinse the siding thoroughly with clean water to remove any soap residue. Avoid using a pressure washer, as this can damage the siding. If you must use a pressure washer, use a low setting and keep the nozzle at least 12 inches away from the siding.

Inspecting for Damage

Regularly inspect the cedar shake siding for any signs of damage, such as cracks, splits, or rot. Early detection of damage can help to prevent more serious problems down the road. Inspect the siding at least twice a year, or more often in areas with harsh weather conditions.

Checking for Cracks and Splits

Carefully inspect the siding for any cracks or splits. These can be caused by weathering, impact damage, or improper installation. Small cracks and splits can be repaired with wood filler or caulk. Larger cracks and splits may require replacing the damaged shakes.

Looking for Signs of Rot

Probe the siding with a screwdriver or awl to check for soft spots or hollow areas. These are signs of rot, which can weaken the siding and lead to structural problems. Rot should be addressed promptly to prevent it from spreading. This may involve removing the rotted wood and replacing it with new cedar shakes.

Reapplying Sealant or Stain

The sealant or stain on the cedar shake siding will eventually wear off over time, leaving the siding vulnerable to the elements. Reapply sealant or stain as needed to protect the siding and maintain its appearance. The frequency of reapplying sealant or stain will depend on the climate, the type of sealant or stain used, and the level of exposure to the sun and weather.

Preparing the Siding

Before reapplying sealant or stain, clean the siding to remove any dirt, debris, or loose paint. Use a scraper or wire brush to remove any peeling or flaking sealant or stain. Sand the siding lightly to create a smooth surface for the new sealant or stain.

Applying the Sealant or Stain

Use a brush, roller, or sprayer to apply the sealant or stain evenly to the siding. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for application and drying times. Apply multiple coats of sealant or stain for added protection and durability. Proper maintenance will ensure your cedar shake siding remains beautiful and functional for years to come.