Recommended Fastener for James Hardie Shake

Recommended Fasteners

• James Hardie shake requires fasteners made of corrosion resistant materials such as galvanized steel or stainless steel. Fasteners made of electro-galvanized steel are less expensive than galvanized or stainless steel and are acceptable for fastening siding, but are prone to premature corrosion. James Hardie recommends the use of hot-galvanized fasteners for most scenarios. However, the company recommends stainless steel fasteners for homes located close to a large body of water, such as a lake or ocean, or in environments with frequent high humidity levels.

Pneumatic Fastening

• Fasteners for James Hardie shake can either be hand nailed or nailed using a pneumatic tool. Fastening shake with a pneumatic tool is highly recommended for many reasons. Using a pneumatic tool makes it easier to ensure each fastener is driven in the same depth. More importantly, using a pneumatic tool makes it simpler to set the fastener flush with the board without over driving. Over driving a fastener reduces its strength and creates a dent in the siding which looks unprofessional.

Fastener Requirements

• Fasteners for shake siding should be 1 1/2 or 1 1/4 inches long depending on the thickness of the shake shingles. Drive a fastener perpendicular to the siding. Consult the applicable code compliance report for your home to find the correct fastener spacing in relation to wind loads. This report is readily available from the contractor responsible for building your home. The report will also recommend the specific fastener type required for your climate if your uncertain about humidity levels and other environmental factors that contribute to corroding fasteners.

Fasteners Types

• Avoid fasteners made of aluminum, staples or clipped head nails. Aluminum fasteners are prone to rapid corrosion which significantly weaken the hold. Staples and clipped head nails aren't sufficient fastener types to hold shake siding securely. It is best to use either straight siding nails or spiral siding nails. Straight siding nails will provide a decent hold, and are quick to install. Spiral siding nails will provide the strongest hold, but are slower to install.