Horizontal Siding Seams

This type of wainscot is best combined with a warm material like a natural wood that contrasts well with the cool colors of natural steel.

Horizontal siding seams.

The joint covers protect the butt joint where two siding planks meet and provide an expansion joint to help prevent siding buckling. Since leaks can happen just as easily during the cleaning process as during a rainstorm horizontal siding requires a careful cleaning regimen so that you do not get water behind the siding. The seam allows the vinyl to expand and contract along with fluctuations in temperature. Think of a wood home as a living thing.

If you use a pressure washer start by ensuring that the stream is at eye level and pointed straight at the siding not at an angle. This prevents the siding panel from cracking in excessive heat or cold. Drill minimum 3 16 4 8mm diameter weep holes in the bottom of the j channel no more than 24 610mm apart. They function as a joint much the same ways joints in concrete function.

In my opinion caulking between the seams in any lapped siding either horizontal or vertical is not good practice but not just because of any potential vapor barrier effect. A seam is where two siding panels meet. If horizontal siding is used a j channel or starter strip must be used. The siding expands and contracts with temperature and humidity.

Use j channel to receive vertical siding. If starter strip is used it is necessary to provide at least 3 8 9 5mm clearance for proper engagement of the siding. A wraparound lower lip hooks the siding and requires one nail to hold it in place.