How Much Of A Gap Do You Need In Siding

When installing in freezing weather below 40.

How much of a gap do you need in siding.

Vinyl siding must be nailed so expansion and contraction are not restricted. Allow a 1 4 in. Siding must be cut in lengths to provide for expansion. On most new homes the trim goes up after the siding is installed which creates a large gap that should not be caulked.

Do not caulk between siding and any built in receiving channels located at or around windows. Lp requires a minimum 3 16 spacing at all butt joints. The eighth inch spacing provides for a safer surface for walking. Vertical trim gap caulking.

Always caulk between the siding and the trim. Cedar shake style products have a shiplap edge at their ends that automatically aligns adjacent pieces with the proper gap but it s still necessary to leave a 3 16 inch gap between the siding and trim pieces. Generally an acceptable gap between deck boards is between 1 8 inch and 1 4 inch. Do i have to caulk at butt joints.

It depends on the option you choose but if joint caulking option is selected seal all gaps at butt joints with a high quality exterior sealant meeting the astm c920 minimum class 25 sealant. Leave a 1 8 gap between the siding and the trim or other materials to allow for structural movement. We need air circulation behind these boards and the opening acts as a water exit should water ever go behind the boards. Install lap siding without shiplap edges to incorporate a 3 16 inch gap at the butt joints between adjacent pieces of siding.

Both sizes have their pros and cons. Many jurisdictions following the international building code which requires a minimum 1 8 inch spacing between boards. Correct methods and techniques.