Steps in the Installation of Masonite
- 1). Find the studs on the exterior of your home with a stud finder. Create pencil or chalk lines running up the side of your house to represent the studs. During installation, attach the siding to studs whenever possible to ensure a secure hold.
- 2). Line up the first piece of Masonite siding so that the bottom sits 1/16 inch from the bottom of the wall. Create a mark where the top of the piece of siding sits. Using a level or chalk line, extend the mark across the whole wall to create an installation guideline.
- 3). Measure 4 inches up from your first guideline and make a mark. Draw another guideline at this point, running horizontally just like the first one. Continue to draw guidelines every 4 inches up the wall until you hit the roof. These lines will set the location for the tops of your boards, providing the appropriate overlap for the Masonite boards.
- 4). Align the first board with the wall again, following the guideline. Use a nail gun or hammer and nails to install stainless steel nails every 16 inches along the top and bottom of the board, hitting the studs wherever possible. Install the nails so that they are flush with the Masonite surface; they should not sink into the surface, if at all possible.
- 5). Install the next board in the row, leaving an expansion gap of 1/8 inch to ensure that the Masonite can shift as needed with moisture and temperature changes. Use 1/8-inch spacers, shims or spare pieces of cardboard if necessary to maintain a consistent gap. Continue until you install the entire first row.
- 6). Cut Masonite boards as necessary to fit on the wall or around obstructions. Wear safety goggles and gloves, and cut with a circular saw or miter saw to fit the boards appropriately. Don't forget to allow for the expansion gap when you cut.
- 7). Install boards all the way up the wall, cutting as you go. Use your guidelines and stud lines to ensure safest and straightest installation. Continue until installation is complete.
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