More than 20 years ago I sided my new workshop with 1×6 VG Redwood over Tyvex. The Tyvex was a big mistake as it has completely deteriorated. Rain is getting behind the siding, likely at the beveled joints because of seasonal contraction /expansion along its length. (Yes it does shrink lengthwise, about 1/8″ in 16′.) The water is running down the studs and along the 1×4 diagonal bracing to the PT sill plate. The interior of the shop is unfinished so the moisture dries in the summer (California) and so far there seems to be no damage. However, It’s not right and I’d like to remove the siding, apply 15 lb. felt and fasten the siding over a 3/8″ rain screen.
What is the cleanest way to remove the siding so it can be re-installed? The siding is fastened with 7d ring shank stainless nails, 2 per stud set flush to the surface Should I pull the heads through? Grind the heads off then pull through? Hole saw and plug each? If I can’t use the same nail holes they’ll have to be filled or plugged otherwise carpenter bees will have a field day.
I’m thinking grinding off the heads would be best, but what sort of tool would you use? At this point I intend to repair the weather side only. This amounts to an area of 12′ x 50′.
Any useful ideas would be appreciated.
Replies
Since the inside is open................
can you slip a long metal blade on a sawzall behind there?
or pry it out enough to do it?
Ring shanks do hold real good.
You could try a shingle thief to cut the nails.
Try using a long, thin nail punch to punch the nails through the board. It's fairly quick and minimally invasive. You can sometimes reuse the same holes with this method (try using a larger nail), but you may find you get a stronger bond by nailing into fresh wood. Good luck.