My house is 70+ years old with original cedar shingle siding covered with 1970 era aluminum siding and located in central MA. The aluminum is dull, dented and is a nasty yellow color. I have removed the aluminum & discovered that the cedar is in need of replacement. I am tackling 1 side of the house at a time and have since removed the original cedar & felt from the first side. I have reinstalled new #15 felt to the existing sheathing and began residing with new cedar shingles (single courses with 7 1/2″ exposure). My problem is I have received condradictory information about leaving space between resawn + rebutted pre-primed red cedar shingles. I have been advised to leave 1/8″ – 1/4″ between shingles and have also been informed that R+R’s can be installed with no gap. I prefer the minimal gap look, but am I risking buckling? It is worth noting that the original 70 year old cedar was installed tight with minimal gaps. Any Advice????
Discussion Forum
Discussion Forum
Up Next
Video Shorts
Featured Story
The RealTruck AMP Research Bedsteps give you easy access to your truck-bed storage.
Featured Video
Highlights
"I have learned so much thanks to the searchable articles on the FHB website. I can confidently say that I expect to be a life-long subscriber." - M.K.
Replies
The gap is crucial in roofing applications to prevent buckling. It is much less so on sidewalls. It will depend on how dry your shingles are. If they are very dry, follow the instructions on the label, 1/8 to1/4. If they are wet, (In the winter we often get frozen blocks) you can install them tight and they will shrink to the recommended gap. Whatever you do, be consistent.
I've done zillions of miles of cedar siding and no matter it be white or red...they shrink..They never expand. OK?
Andy
It's not who's right, it's who's left ~ http://CLIFFORDRENOVATIONS.COM