Caulking Cedar Siding Seams

Out from the fascia.

Caulking cedar siding seams.

Don t use a filler like wood filler as it will not move with the cedar siding. 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. Z flashing z flashing z flashing min. Some of the most commonly caulked areas of siding include both corners and crevices as well as some butt joints and window and door trim boards.

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. It needs to move and breathe. The siding expands and contracts with temperature and humidity. Think of a wood home as a living thing.

If i am installing a prefinished product which i do mostly i use a color osi match caulk. If i install a non finished product i usually go with a 3m paintable caulk. Siding caulk can be used on several different areas of your exterior siding to help prevent water damage and moisture buildup. James hardie recommends the use of caulks and sealants that remain permanently flexible.

Because the staing will tint the caulk slightly. Do not caulk extend shingles at least 1 in. I m not a painter but i do install cedar siding and i always caulk all the joints. Natural siding boards are designed to expand and contract with the elements and we do not want any adhesive to prevent their natural movement.

Generally we do not recommend caulking butt joints on cedar siding. Nichiha panels bring the look of wood stone brick metal more to your commercial or residential projects with high performance fiber cement.