Now that I have decided to go with 1×8 Cypress shiplap (thanks to many who helped) I have couple more detailed question. The Cypress will be stained all 4 sides and has a 1/2″ shiplap. I can increase the shiplap to 5/8″ or 3/4″ if the added protection (water intrusion) justifies the added cost. What do you think. BTW, I checked and Cypress will be KD to under 20% MC.

It appears that I should plan for some water getting behind the siding. Since I am doing the work myself I am not sure if I can build a proper rain screen wall as was recommended in earlier discussions. But to add protection against effects of moisture siding will be applied on horizontal nailing strips to provide proper ventillation. I will also apply siding so that the lap is opposite to the prevailing wind direction. This will minimize driven rain most of the times.

To add protection for wall sheathing (and some additional insulation value to the 2×4 wall) I would like to install 1/4 fan-fold type insulation. Now the main question. I am wondering if I can fully cover the wall with insulation and apply nailing strips on top of the insulation. The potential problem being the deterioration on insulation (do not think they do but have no experience) causing the nailing strips to become loose.

What is recommended, size wise, for nailing strips. 1/4″ gap should be good for ventillation but that thick a strip does not seem strong enough. I would like it to be wide enough so that in cases where 2 siding pieces have to butt (45 deg. bevelled overlapping joint) I have enough width to prevent splitting of siding due to nailing close to the ends. This is where I think that applying 1/2″ thick the strips directly on to the wall will allow me to go with stronger wood and the gap will be reduced to 1/4″ by the insulation.

Thanks,

Imran