Expansion Gap For Siding

An improper expansion gap may have similar consequences to the results shown above especially if the milling process is irregular.

Expansion gap for siding.

Choose the right nails. Vertical trim gap caulking. Allow for expansion and contraction. Vinyl siding must be nailed so expansion and contraction are not restricted.

Do not caulk between siding and any built in receiving channels located at or around windows. When installing in freezing weather below 40. Allow a 1 8 inch expansion gap between pieces if the siding is air or kiln dried. Gap for expansion wherever siding butts accessories.

For siding up to 6 inches wide use one nail one inch up from the lap. Siding must be cut in lengths to provide for expansion. Do not nail through overlaps. Allow a 1 4 in.

Use a keyhole or reciprocating saw with a fine tooth blade to remove enough material from one of the pieces of lap siding. As a result the expansion gap between the top of the tongue and bottom of the groove can range from o to 1 8. Create a proper 3 16 space at minimum between the two pieces of siding. 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.

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. Always caulk between the siding and the trim. Leave a 1 8 gap between the siding and the trim or other materials to allow for structural movement.