Depending on how the pieces fit together, some jointed sidings can be fully attached by blind-nailing through a tongue or underlap that will be covered by the course above. Other types require face-nailing as well. The area where you will blind-drive the fasteners is thin, so there is a danger of cracking the wood when you drive a nail. Preempt any splits by drilling pilot holes. The extra step is worth the effort: A cracked board is seriously compromised and may allow water to seep behind. Some installers choose to drive small-head stainless-steel screws instead of nails. Or you can use a power stapler, which is less likely than a nailer to split boards. When working with a helper, you’ll need a day to install 600 square feet of siding. Before you begin, cover the sheathing with building wrap, and install trim boards and flashings as needed. Editor’s tip: You may choose to install corner trim first and butt the siding up to it as shown. If you want the trim to be more pronounced, install the siding first and then apply the trim over the siding. For a less pronounced reveal, attach strips of 3/8-inch pressure-treated plywood to the insides of the corner trims and install the corners before you install the siding.
