Tongue and groove siding can be installed horizontally or vertically.
In horizontal application, start at the bottom and work up with the grove edges facing downwards to assure a weather-tight wall. Siding up to 6 in. wide can be blind nailed with one casing nail per bearing toe-nailed through the base of each tongue.
Wider siding should be face nailed using two nails per bearing. Nails must penetrate 1-1/2 in. into solid wood (see Figure 5).
In vertical application, start at one corner with grooved edge toward the adjacent wall.
Use a level or plumbline to ensure that the first board is installed vertically. The grooved edge of the first board may have to be trimmed to ensure a flush fit. Siding is nailed to horizontal blocking lines installed between studs or to furring strips (see Wall Construction).
As with horizontal installation, pieces up to 6 in. can be blind nailed and wider pieces should be face nailed.
Table 8. Tongue and Groove Siding Dimensions
| Thickness (in.) | Nominal Width (in.) | Finished Width (in.) |
|---|---|---|
| 11/16 | 4, 6, 8 | 3-3/8, 5-3/8, 7-1/8 |
| 23/32 | 4, 6, 8 | 3-3/8, 5-3/8, 7-1/8 |
Tongue and Groove Siding Coverage Table
| Nominal Width (inches) | Dressed Width (inches) | Exposed Face Width (inches) | Lineal Feet Factor | Board Feet Factor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | 3-3/8 | 3 | 4.0 | 1.33 |
| 6 | 5-3/8 | 5 | 2.4 | 1.2 |
| 8 | 7-1/8 | 6-3/4 | 1.77 | 1.19 |