Foundry Staggered Shake

Preparation: apply a flat, level wall surface and a weather-resistant barrier (house wrap) over all sheathing prior to installation — consult local building code. Install window flashing per ASTM E2112: underside first, then sides, then top, extending past nail flanges of accessories. Sheathing must be minimum 7/16" (11 mm) OSB or 15/32" plywood. Inspect framing to ensure structural soundness.

Fastener requirements: use corrosion-resistant nails with minimum 3/8" (9.5 mm) head diameter and 0.120" (3 mm) shank, long enough to penetrate minimum 3/4" (19 mm) beyond the solid substrate. Nail panels every 10" (254 mm) in the centre of nailing slots. Drive fasteners straight and level — never tightly against the nail hem; allow approx. 1/32" clearance so panels can move freely. Do not face-nail.

Expansion clearances: leave minimum 1/8" clearance at all openings and terminations for thermal expansion/contraction. In temperatures below 40°F (4.4°C), increase minimum clearance to 1/4" (6.35 mm). When lapping panels, leave 1/4" gap at the nailing hem. Space each starter strip at least 1/4" from the next. Trimmed pieces must be at least 6" long and nailed every 10".

Shake installation — first course: install on the lower left side of the wall, locked securely into the starter strip. Fasten every 10" in the centre of nailing slots. Succeeding courses: insert the butt edge into the top lock of the previously installed course; lock must be fully engaged and panels must not be under tension or compression. Keyways between individual shakes must NOT align with the panel below. Recommended stagger pattern: 1st course = full panel; 2nd = remove 1.5 shakes from left; 3rd = remove 3 shakes; 4th = remove 4.5 shakes; check horizontal alignment every 5th course.

Cutting and trimming: cut panels with snips or a circular saw with a vinyl-grade fine-tooth blade installed in the reverse direction. Trimmed pieces must be at least 6" long and secured with minimum 2 nails at every 10". Use a snap lock punch to create locking tabs on cut panels when installing utility trim under windows or soffits. For turret or curved applications: cut v-notches in the return leg at the butt hem; warm panels to 75°F or higher (use a heat gun in cold weather) to aid flexibility.

Care & maintenance: Foundry Staggered Shake is a vinyl product requiring no painting, caulking, or staining. Clean periodically with mild soap and water and a soft cloth or low-pressure wash. Avoid abrasive cleaners, steel wool, or high-pressure washing. Do not expose to direct heat sources such as barbecue grills.