How to Replace Cedar Shake Siding

Cedar shake siding can add character and charm to the exterior of your home. They are also a good choice for homeowners that prefer to have a lower maintenance home exterior. On occasion, cedar shakes may need to be replaced in different areas due to damage or age. It is a good idea to have a few extra pieces of the cedar siding around for smaller repair jobs. Following these steps will help make your cedar shake siding replacement easier.

Things You'll Need

• Cedar shakes
• Nails
• Heavy-duty pallet knife
• Hammer
• Ladder

Instructions

1. Use a heavy-duty pallet knife to pry the damaged shingle from the surrounding shingles. It is okay to split the shingle and sometimes is necessary. Continue the process with all the damaged shingles in the surrounding area.

2. Remove any nails using the pallet knife or the back of a hammer.

3. Install your replacement shakes by aligning each of the new ones with the ones above them.

4. Secure each of the replacement cedar shakes with a nail. The nails should be hammered in at an angle, with the nail facing in a downward direction instead of being driven straight in.

5. Continue the process on different areas of the exterior where replacement is necessary.

Tips & Warnings

• Before purchasing new cedar shakes for your project, check your storage area for extras that may have been left over from the original installation.

• Be careful when using a ladder. Ask a friend to help hold the ladder as you ascend.