Expansion Gap For Siding

Choose the right nails.

Expansion gap for siding.

Always caulk between the siding and the trim. Create a proper 3 16 space at minimum between the two pieces of siding. Increase to 3 8 9 5mm when installing in temperatures below 40 f 4 4 c. Leave a 1 8 gap between the siding and the trim or other materials to allow for structural movement.

Allow a 1 8 inch expansion gap between pieces if the siding is air or kiln dried. Vinyl siding must be nailed so expansion and contraction are not restricted. An improper expansion gap may have similar consequences to the results shown above especially if the milling process is irregular. Gap for expansion wherever siding butts accessories.

Allow for expansion and contraction. Allow a 1 4 in. Allowance should be made for expansion and contraction by leaving a 1 4 6 4mm gap between the siding and all corner posts and channels. Use a keyhole or reciprocating saw with a fine tooth blade to remove enough material from one of the pieces of lap siding.

If the panels are 20 feet 6 1 meters or longer refer to the manufacturer s instructions for how to increase the gap. Siding must be cut in lengths to provide for expansion. Do not caulk between siding and any built in receiving channels located at or around windows. Face nail with two nails per piece for 8 inches patterns and wider keeping nails 2 1 2 to 3 inches apart to allow for dimensional movement without splitting.

As a result the expansion gap between the top of the tongue and bottom of the groove can range from o to 1 8. Remove any sawdust dirt or debris from the gap to prep it for finishing. When installing in freezing weather below 40.