Shiplap Siding - What You Need To Know
By Bryan Huffman

  What is Shiplap Siding
Shiplap siding is siding that is found on the outside walls of houses to give the appearance of a wood finish. The bottom edge of the siding will be thicker than the top of it. The difference is usually noted at about two inches. Since the top portion of the siding is thinner, the nails are usually able to be hidden inside where they won't be seen.

What Do You Need To Install Shiplap Siding?
The following equipment is required to install your shiplap siding:
. Saw horses
. Circular saw
. Saber saw
. Silicone caulk
. Caulk gun
. Galvanized siding nails
. I6-oz. claw hammer
. Carpenter's square
. Tape measure
. Chalk line

Preparation and Layout of the Shiplap Siding
Any siding that was previously placed on the walls needs to be removed before the new shiplap siding is installed - you won't be able to place it on any older siding. Before applying the new siding you will first need to layer the wall with paper. If the new area is dirty then you may need to sand it down. Application of a flashing is the next step. This is to ensure that no water will leak into the siding after a heavy rain or wall washing.

Determine how you want the boards to look when you reach the top and need to provide an edge. A trim piece can be installed in this case. You will also need to decide the size of the vertical width that will be exposed when you set the sidings. This is a fairly simple procedure where you can simply stack boards on top to get a constant width that you will have to check using a tape measure. This result is called the "reveal". The smaller it is t he classier the appearance of the siding.

Shiplap siding is made to go around an entire house and the boards are placed to meet at the same level in each corner. If they do not, you will be left with an uneven and poor appearance that will require modifications in order to repair the previous work. Level lines must be marked all around the house - preferably with either a spirit or water level. Also keep in mind that the shiplap siding will be differently sized in accordance to where you have doors and windows placed around your house.

Fastening the Shiplap Siding to the House
If the sheathing of the house is plywood, you will simply need to purchase the correct types of nails in order to set the siding properly. Make sure you read the manufacturer's guidelines when placing the shiplap siding or it might turn out incorrect and cost you more than you have already spent.. This is not an easy task, so if you are new it may help to seek assistance from someone with more experience.

Shiplap siding is a valuable resource for remodelling your home. Be sure you do your research when picking out the siding to meet your needs.
 
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