Application

PREVENT MOISTURE PROBLEMS BEFORE YOU START
Most siding "problems" and finish "problems" are caused by moisture. All woods shrink as they dry and swell when they absorb moisture. Problems such as checking, buckling, splitting, and nail popping are the result of this dimensional change. As with any wood, some dimensional changes can be expected.

After installation, Certified Kiln-Dried siding will shrink less than air-dried or seasoned sidings.

The good news is that most moisture related-problems are preventable through proper construction techniques. By anticipating some shrinkage and swelling, builders can reduce splitting and buckling. By limiting moisture's access to siding, builders can minimize the amount of shrinking and swelling that will take place.

 Proper wall construction includes a vapor barrier , with a rating of 1 perm, on the warm side of the wall to prevent interior moisture access to the wall cavity. Water resistant building paper with a rating of at least 5 perms should be applied over sheathing or studs to prevent exterior moisture from entering the wall.  For sheathing, use fiberboard, plywood or lumber. Finish or primer should be applied to all faces, ends and edges of siding after it has reached a balance with the moisture in the air and before it is nailed in place.

Adequate ventilation area equal to at least 1/300th of the total sq. ft. of living space is a must.
STORE IT RIGHT
Until wood siding is nailed in place, it needs protection from the sun, moisture, dirt and any other elements which might discolor or disfigure the wood. If wood is exposed to excessive moisture, it will swell. If it is exposed to excess sun or heat, it will shrink unevenly, causing cupping, checking or splitting. For best results, let wood siding reach an equilibrium with the moisture in the atmosphere by storing them for at least fifteen days in a well ventilated shelter. This will significantly improve product performance.		 DO
Do store siding in a garage or shed with adequate air circulation for best protection from the elements.

Do keep siding dry. If it can't be kept under a roof, protect it with a waterproof cover. Make sure the cover is secure, but loose enough to permit air circulation.

Do store siding off ground and protected from dirt, moisture, direct sunlight and extreme heat.

 DO NOT
Do not keep siding wrapped tightly in plastic covers. Loosen wrappers at job site to permit air circulation.

Do not leave siding in the sun or covered with dark plastic. The dark cover will attract heat and cause excessive drying.

Do not let siding get wet or dirty.When storing lumber on the ground, place a plastic cover over soil to minimize moisture absorption from the earth.
Wood to be used inside must be allowed to acclimate to drier moisture conditions 1-2 weeks. Stack it in the area where it will be used in such a way that air can circulate around each piece.