NovikShake HS Hand-Split Shake

Always begin installation at the lowest point of the structure and work upward, left to right. Install a Universal Starter Strip on the first row, ensuring the horizontal starting line is perfectly level and square with the wall. Leave a 2½" (6.35 cm) gap at each end of the wall when using decorative corners.

Use non-corrosive (aluminum or galvanized) roofing nails or screws: minimum 1¼" (3.18 cm) penetration into solid substrate. Head diameter: minimum 0.4" (1 cm). Nail at maximum 16" (40.64 cm) o.c. intervals through the center of each nailing slot. Each full-length panel requires a minimum of 6 nails — nail the center hole first, then both end holes, the lateral hole, and 2 additional nails in the nailing channel. Never hammer nails flush — leave a 1/16" (0.16 cm) gap to allow for thermal movement.

Temperature adjustment is required: above 40°F (5°C) — slide panel to the right stopper; below 40°F (5°C) — adjust panel to the temperature line indicated. Never force panels tight — polypropylene expands and contracts seasonally. Polymer undergoes expansion/contraction due to temperature variations; always follow installation instructions to allow for movement.

Outside corners: install decorative corner trim first. Siding panels must finish at 2½" (6.35 cm) from the corner of the wall; nail siding at 4" (10.2 cm) from the wall edge. Stagger panel joints row to row — begin each new row with a 12" (30.5 cm) offset from the row below; never align vertical panel joints between adjacent rows.

On masonry or furring walls: install furring strips at maximum 8" (20.32 cm) o.c. vertically (minimum 19 mm × 38 mm). One furring strip must align behind every nail hole. Fasteners must penetrate a minimum of 38 mm into solid framing or sheathing. Continuous, clear air space of 19 mm outboard of the sheathing membrane is required under CCMC 13420-R.

Inside corners can be finished with: (A) an inside corner post, (B) two J-trims, or (C) two NovikTrim1 pieces. Seal the inside corner of the wall before installing any trim. Leave a ¼" (0.64 cm) gap between any trim and siding panel ends.

Care & cleaning: Hand-Split Shake requires no painting, staining, or caulking. Clean annually with plain water and a garden hose or a mild diluted detergent (1/3 cup laundry detergent per 4 quarts water) with a soft-bristle brush. Do not use a pressure washer, abrasive cleaners, or strong solvents — pressure washing will void the warranty. Clean bottom-up; rinse top-down with clear water.