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How to Install a Pattern 105 Drop Siding

Tara Lightfoot

Many options are available to address the look of the outside of a house. Wood siding is a great way to spruce up any home's exterior. This technique has been used for centuries and has been proven to be a long-lasting finishing method.

Wood siding can be used with other finishes to create a custom look.

Wood siding can be installed quickly, can be finished in many ways and is a great insulator, making it a good choice for remodeling and new construction alike.

Installation

  1. Remove old siding and install new felt as per manufacturer's instructions. If new construction, then install felt over framed walls. The siding is protection for the felt, which keeps out moisture, so it's imperative to have a solid felt layer.

  2. Install one-inch square lumber in any inside corner to make a solid butt joint with the siding.

  3. Install the first course of siding at the bottom of the wall to be covered, making sure to level the boards. Nail the siding to the wall using the nail pattern recommended by the manufacturer.

  4. Continue up the wall, overlapping the top and bottom edges of the siding and mitering any outside corners for a watertight fit. Cut around any windows or doors, butting the siding to the casing. When a wall is wider than one length of siding, be sure to fit the siding together as tightly as possible to avoid vertical gaps.

  5. Trim out windows and doors by mitering trim boards and nailing them to the window or door casing and the newly installed siding. This will cover the gap between the siding and casing for a more finished appeal.

  6. Choose the desired finish and follow the manufacturer's instructions for finishing. This can be wood stain, varnish or paint. There are many varieties in these categories to suit any design preference.

  7. Tip

    Joints can be mitered by hand as well. A compressed air nail gun can be used, but hand nailing is recommended.

    Warning

    Always wear safety glasses when cutting wood.