We’re about to put up the siding on a 100 year old house resto. The hardiplank will be nailed over builder’s felt to the original clapboards with a 6″ overlap.
I was thinking about the method for caulking the vertical joints (mid-run, against the trim and for inside and outside corners) and I couldn’t remember how I’ve done it in the past.
The question I have is whether to go around and caulk everything after all the siding is on (the obvious choice) or to caulk each end as it is installed and before the next course.
I was thinking that the latter might last longer or seal better because the entire edge of each board would be sealed against the trim instead of just the bottom two thirds.
I’m aware that this would result in a “shingled” effect rather than one continuous bead, but I’m not sure if this is better or worse.
I should mention that we’ll be using the pre finished siding with caulking colored to match. Trim will be painted in advance, too.
I’m not considering the ease of the method(S) to be a factor here unless there is no measurable difference in the results.
What do you think?
Replies
I did it both ways recently. Post-caulking was more messy and not as effective. Precaulking provided better coverage on the ends of the plank, and ooked better as well.
If there is any significant difference of one over the other, I couldn't say.
"I am the master of my fate, I am the captain of my soul." Invictus, by Henley.
Now that's the kind of answer I was looking for. Thanks.
I personally like to bed my siding into the caulk against the vertical trim. Of course, that needs to be done as you are installing it. I've had opportunity to go back years later and remove it, and the caulk sticks like crazy. Some people need to see a big bead in the corners or they think it's going to leak. I don't. As far as between the pieces, I would caulk that as I work too.
Don K.
EJG Homes Renovations - New construction - Rentals