How To Install Redwood Siding

Measure the height and width of the exterior wall where you want to install redwood clapboard siding. Multiply the height by the width to calculate the area, or square footage, of the space. Determine the area of the doors and windows, and deduct it from the total area. Have the lumber yard help you determine the number of planks you need for the exterior surface. Most clapboard planks are 8 inches wide and overlap the previous layer by 1 to 1 1/2 inches.

Hold a chalk line against the base of the wall you want to cover. Extend the line so it snaps, forming a straight guideline for the starter course.

Measure the length of the chalk line and cut a strip of lath to the exact size. Hold the lath horizontally along the lower edge of the sheathing and nail it into place.

Overlap the starter lath with the first redwood clapboard. Set this redwood plank against the wall, with its narrow edge on top and the wider edge covering the lath, to enable rain water to run off the siding, not inside. Drive a row of nails every 14 to 16 inches along the upper edge of the redwood clapboard, where they are easily covered by the next clapboard.

Measure and mark 1 1/2 inches from the upper edge of the redwood clapboard nailed to the exterior wall. Extend the mark to form a straight line along the width of the board. This line forms the guideline for the second course.

Set the board for the second course against the wall, with its lower, thicker edge resting over the pencil line on the previous course. Hammer a nail just above the overlap, not through the overlap, of two pieces. Repeat the process of nailing the course in place. Stagger the joints in this course by at least 16 inches. Continue to install clapboard siding planks over the exterior surface.

Cut the clapboards around obstructions, such as windows, doors or light fixtures, as you go. Measure and cut the clapboards to size and install these around the fixtures on the wall you are covering.