Nailer for Cedar Siding Installation: Essential Guide

Quick Summary:
The best nailer for cedar siding installation is typically a pneumatic siding nailer, specifically one designed for cedar. Look for adjustable depth control and consider a collated nailer (coil or stick) for efficiency. Always use the correct nail size and material.

Hey there, fellow DIYers! Jack Shaffer here, your guide from Nailerguy. Tackling cedar siding installation can feel like a big project, and choosing the right nailer is a crucial first step. It’s not as complicated as it might seem, and with the right tool, you’ll find it a surprisingly smooth process. This guide is all about making sure you pick the perfect nailer for your cedar siding project, saving you time, effort, and potential headaches. We’ll break down exactly what you need to know so you can get that beautiful cedar look on your home with confidence. Let’s dive in!

Choosing the Right Nailer for Cedar Siding: Your Expert Guide

Cedar siding is a fantastic choice for any home. It’s beautiful, natural, and adds incredible charm. But when it comes to putting it up, the tool you use really matters. If you’ve ever wondered, “What kind of nailer do I need for cedar siding?” you’ve come to the right place. As Nailerguy, I’ve spent a lot of time with all sorts of nailers, and cedar siding has its own specific needs. Let’s get you sorted with the best nailer for the job.

Understanding Cedar Siding and Its Nailing Needs

Cedar is a softwood, which is great because it’s easier to work with and lighter than many hardwoods. However, it can still mar or split if you use the wrong fasteners or drive them in with too much force. This means we need a nailer that offers control and is designed for this type of material. The goal is to secure the siding firmly without damaging its natural beauty.

When installing cedar siding, you’re looking for a nailer that can:

• Drive nails consistently and accurately.
• Prevent over-driving nails, which can damage the wood.
• Handle the specific nail sizes and types recommended for cedar.
• Be efficient enough for a large project.

The Top Nailer Types for Cedar Siding

For cedar siding, you’ll mostly be looking at pneumatic nailers. These use compressed air to drive nails, offering the power and control we need. Electric or battery-powered nailers exist, but for siding installation, especially on a larger scale, air-powered tools usually offer a better balance of power, weight, and continuous operation without worrying about battery life. Here are the main contenders:

1. Pneumatic Siding Nailers

This is the go-to choice for professional siding installation, and for good reason. Pneumatic siding nailers are designed specifically for the task. They are powerful, fast, and allow for precise control. They typically use either coil nails or stick nails.

• Coil Siding Nailers: These use nails held together by a wire or plastic collation. The coil holds a large number of nails (often 200-300), meaning fewer reloads. This makes them incredibly efficient for long runs of siding. They are generally lightweight and well-balanced for overhead work or repetitive nailing.
• Stick Siding Nailers: These use nails that are glued or plastic-collated and are often held at an angle. Stick nailers can sometimes be a bit more compact and might be preferred for tighter spaces or specific siding profiles. The magazines are usually smaller than coil nailers, requiring more frequent reloading.

Why they are great for cedar:

• Adjustable Depth Control: Most siding nailers come with an adjustable depth setting. This is VITAL for cedar. You can dial in exactly how deep the nail sinks, ensuring it’s flush or slightly countersunk without piercing or crushing the wood fibers.
• Power and Speed: They provide more than enough power to drive nails into wood studs through the siding, and their speed makes the installation process much faster.
• Durability: Built for job site conditions, they are robust tools.

2. Framing Nailers (With Caution)

While primarily designed for framing walls, some framing nailers can be used for siding installation, but with significant caveats. Framing nailers are powerful and fast. However, their depth control might be less refined, making it easier to over-drive nails into softer woods like cedar.

When you might consider a framing nailer:

• You already own one and are doing a very small, isolated siding project.
• You are extremely careful with depth control adjustments and practice on scrap wood.

The risks:

• Higher chance of damaging the cedar by driving nails too deep.
• Can be heavier and more cumbersome than dedicated siding nailers.
• May not be optimized for the specific nail lengths and gauges used in siding.

My advice: For cedar siding, it’s almost always better to opt for a dedicated siding nailer. The investment in the right tool pays off in a cleaner, more professional finish and less risk of damaging your materials.

Key Features to Look For in a Cedar Siding Nailer

When you’re browsing for your nailer, keep these features in mind. They’ll make a big difference in your project’s success.

• Adjustable Depth Setting: As I’ve mentioned, this is paramount. Look for an easy-to-use dial or lever that clearly indicates depth.
• Nail Collation Type (Coil vs. Stick): Coil nailers are generally more efficient for large siding jobs due to fewer reloads. Stick nailers can be good for smaller areas or specific siding types.
• Magazine Capacity: More nails per load means less stopping to refill.
• Lightweight and Well-Balanced: You’ll be holding this tool for extended periods, possibly overhead. A lighter tool that feels good in your hand will reduce fatigue.
• Sequential Trip vs. Contact Trip:
  • Sequential Trip: You must sequentially press the safety contact nose onto the surface and then pull the trigger to fire a nail. This offers the most control and safety, preventing accidental firing.
  • Contact Trip (Bump Feed): You can keep the trigger pulled and bump the nose of the nailer against the siding to fire nails. This is faster but requires more practice to avoid accidental nail placement. For beginners, sequential trip is usually recommended.
• Nail Size and Gauge Compatibility: Make sure the nailer accepts the nail size and gauge specified for cedar siding installation. Common gauges for siding are 15-gauge (finish nails) or 16-gauge (brad nails), but check your siding manufacturer’s recommendations.
• Air Pressure Requirements: This is important when selecting an air compressor. Most siding nailers operate between 70-120 PSI (pounds per square inch). Ensure your compressor can meet these requirements. For more on air compressors, you can check out resources like Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) guidelines on pneumatic tools which cover safe operation and maintenance, even though they don’t specify nailer types.

Nail Specifications for Cedar Siding

The nail itself is just as important as the nailer. Using the wrong nails can lead to rust, staining, or poor holding power.

• Material: For cedar siding, especially if it will be exposed to the elements or if you’re using a clear finish, stainless steel or hot-dipped galvanized nails are highly recommended. These resist corrosion and prevent unsightly rust streaks that can stain the wood over time. Aluminum nails are also a good rust-resistant option. Avoid electro-galvanized nails for exterior applications as they offer less protection.
• Length: The general rule of thumb is that the nail should penetrate the siding and go at least 1 inch into the solid wood of the wall sheathing or framing. For typical cedar siding thicknesses (e.g., 1/2″ to 3/4″), this often means using nails between 1-1/2 inches and 2-1/2 inches long. Always consult your siding manufacturer’s installation guide for the precise recommendations.
• Gauge: The gauge refers to the wire thickness of the nail. For most wood siding, including cedar, either 15-gauge (finish nails) or 16-gauge (brad nails) are commonly used. A 15-gauge nail will provide a bit more holding power than a 16-gauge nail.
• Head Type: You’ll typically want nails with a medium-sized head, often called “casing” or “finish” nails, or specifically “siding nails.” The head needs to be large enough to hold the siding securely without excessive pull-through, but not so large that it’s difficult to conceal or that it mars the wood surface.

Here’s a quick table summarizing common choices:

Setting Up Your Pneumatic Nailer for Cedar

Once you’ve got your nailer and compressor, setting it up correctly is key to a smooth installation. Don’t skip these steps!

1. Connect the Air Hose: Ensure the air hose is securely attached to both the nailer and the air compressor. Check for any leaks at the fittings.
2. Set Air Pressure: Refer to your nailer’s manual for the recommended operating pressure. A good starting point for most siding nailers is around 90-100 PSI. You’ll adjust this based on testing.
3. Load Nails: Open the magazine and load the correct type and size of nails for your cedar siding. Make sure they are seated properly.
4. Practice on Scrap Wood: This is the most important step! Get some scrap pieces of cedar siding (or similar softwood) and practice firing nails. Your goal is to find the perfect depth setting.
5. Adjust Depth Control:
   • Start with a moderate depth setting.
   • Fire a nail into your scrap siding. Check how deep it went.
   • If the nail head is sticking out, you need to drive it deeper. Adjust the depth control to a deeper setting.
   • If the nail head is sinking too far, crushing the cedar, you need to drive it shallower. Adjust the depth control to a shallower setting.
   • You’re looking for a nail that is flush with the surface of the siding, or very slightly countersunk, without crushing the wood fibers around it.
6. Test in Multiple Positions: Try firing nails when holding the nailer perpendicular to the wood, and slightly angled, to ensure consistent results.

Safety First! Working with Nailers

Nailers are powerful tools, and safety should always be your top priority. Here are some essential safety tips:

• Read the Manual: Get familiar with your specific nailer and compressor.
• Wear Safety Glasses: Always wear ANSI-approved safety glasses or goggles. Flying debris or recoil can cause serious eye injury.
• Keep Fingers Away from the Trigger and Nose: Never point the nailer at yourself or others. Be mindful of where the nose is placed.
• Use Sequential Trip (Beginners): If your nailer has a sequential trip mode, use it, especially when you’re starting out.
• Disconnect Air When Not in Use: When changing nails, performing maintenance, or leaving the tool unattended, disconnect the air hose.
• Secure the Workpiece: Make sure the siding is properly supported and won’t shift unexpectedly while you’re nailing.
• Proper Hose Management: Keep air hoses tidy to avoid tripping hazards.
• Work in a Well-Ventilated Area: Ensure good airflow, especially if using an air compressor indoors.
• Hearing Protection: Consider earplugs or earmuffs, as pneumatic tools can be loud.

For more detailed safety information, always refer to resources like the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) guidelines for power tools. While the CPSC covers a broad range of tools, their advice on safe operation and hazard awareness is universally applicable.

Best Practices for Nailing Cedar Siding

Beyond choosing the right nailer, a few best practices will ensure your cedar siding installation looks fantastic and lasts for years to come.

• Follow Manufacturer Guidelines: This cannot be stressed enough! Every siding product, wood type, and manufacturer has specific recommendations for nail size, type, placement, and spacing. Always defer to their instructions, which are often found on their website or included with the product.
• Nail into Studs: Cedar siding needs to be fastened into the solid wood framing (studs) behind the sheathing. Hitting studs ensures a secure attachment and prevents sagging. You can use a stud finder to locate them accurately.
• Spacing and Overlap: Ensure proper spacing between nails (typically 6-16 inches on center, but check instructions) and the correct overlap for tongue-and-groove or clapboard styles.
• Nail Placement: Drive nails through the face of the siding, typically near the top edge of the board to be covered by the next board (for clapboard) or according to the manufacturer’s pattern. This concealed nailing helps protect the nail head from the elements.
• Avoid Over-Nailing: As we’ve discussed, over-driving nails crushes the cedar. Set your nailer depth correctly and avoid redundant nailing.
• Don’t Nail Too Close to Edges: Nailing too close to the ends or edges of boards can cause them to split. Maintain a safe distance, usually at least 1 inch from the edge.
• Check for Straightness: As you go, periodically step back and check your lines of nails to ensure they are straight and consistent.

Recommended Nailer Models (Examples)

While I can’t recommend one specific model as brand availability and specific needs vary, here are types of nailers from reputable brands that are generally well-regarded for siding work. When looking for a cedar siding nailer, search for models specifically listed as “siding nailers” from these makers:

• Paslode: Known for their durable pneumatic tools. Look for their cordless or pneumatic siding nailer series.
• DEWALT: Offers a range of reliable siding nailers, both pneumatic and cordless.
• Metabo HPT (formerly Hitachi): Their pneumatic siding nailers are popular for their performance and durability.
• BOSTITCH: A long-standing name in nailers, they have robust options for siding.

When selecting a model, always check reviews stating performance specifically on wood siding and note any comments about its effectiveness on softer woods like cedar. Pay attention to the nail collation type (coil or stick) and magazine capacity that best suits your project size and workflow.

Pneumatic vs. Cordless Nailers for Siding

This is a question I get a lot! Both have their place, but for large siding projects, pneumatic often wins out.