Home Builder Developer - Interior Renovation and Design

How much does a water heater cost?

Water Heater Repair

$250 - $350

40 Ga. Water Heater

$850 - $1100

Tankless Water Heater

$1200 - $3500

See costs in your areaStart Here - Enter Your Zip Code

Having a functional water heater is essential for every household to stay on top of all its daily routines. If the last time you replaced a water heater was 10 years or more, and its starting to give you trouble, it may be time to get a new device.

Moreover, a new addition to the family or increased water usage are also good reasons to consider getting a bigger size water heater that has more capacity, or switching to a tankless model.

Whether you are replacing an old water heater or installing a brand new system, there are a number of different options to consider. Popular hot water heaters are available as traditional storage tanks or tankless devices, and they can be powered by gas, electricity or solar energy.

Lets take a look at the installation costs for different types of water heaters, as well as their pros and cons.

In this post:

Cost to replace a water heaterInstallation costs break downTank vs tanklessGas vs electricHow to size a water heaterSplurging on an expensive brandExpansion tank considerationsSigns of an aging or broken water heater

Homeowners across the US are paying $850-2,500 to install a new water heater, including professional labor. Such a wide price range depends on the following factors:

type of heater (tank vs. tankless) size/capacity (40, 50, 75 gallons) power type (gas, electric, solar).

A storage tank water heater costs $600-900, but prices can be as low as $300-350.

A gas tankless water heater costs $800-1,300. High-end models are priced at $1,500-2,000+

Electric devices, both tank and tankless, are significantly cheaper than gas ones. For example an electric tankless water heater can cost as little as $200-500. An electric storage tank is $300-600.

There are a number of factors that will impact how much a plumber will charge to install your water heater:

1. Type of water heater

If you want a regular gas storage tank, the job is fairly straight forward. This is especially true if you are simply replacing the device you have had before with a new model. Consequently, you should expect to pay no more than $300-450 for this work.

Installation of a tankless gas device starts at around $1,200 because the process is more involved and time-consuming.

2. Switching from a tank to a tankless device

If you have a storage unit and want to switch to a tankless one, you should be prepared to spend a lot more. Homeowners looking to make this switch should budget $1,500-3,5000 for labor.

This is because in most homes the existing gas piping, meter and gas line to the meter may not be able to handle the high gas load of a tankless model.

Consequently, there will be a lot of additional labor involved in the install, such as:

retrofitting the existing gas line perhaps putting in a new line installing a proper venting system possibly having additional electrical wiring done (you will need to hire an electrician) maybe re-routing gas and water lines, and possibly electricity, depending on the layout of your basement and ventilation it may not be possible to vent the gas tankless heater into the chimney and the installer will need to do a direct vent outside

3. Installing an electric tankless water heater

Similarly, if you are switching to an electric tankless device, an electrician will need to do a lot of work to rewire and expand your homes existing system to handle the extra power usage from the heater (which is VERY high). Some of the most powerful electric tankless models can use as much as 120 amps.

So if you have a 100 amp service, you cant use a tankless electric water heater without upgrading the electric panel to at least 200 amps. On average, this will cost an extra $1,000-1,500. However, you cost can be as high as$3,000 depending on the complexity of labor involved, such as having to open walls, etc.

4. Your location

While this may not seem fair to you as a homeowner, the reality is that contractors rates vary depending on where you live. In high-income suburban areas, as well as expensive cities such as San Francisco, New York, Boston, Miami, etc. a plumber will charge as much as 15-25% more for labor, compared to areas where incomes are significantly lower.

5. Unreasonable pricing scams

Because most homeowners have no idea about plumbing and what this work entails, many plumbers take the liberty of charging EXTREMELY high prices for NO REASON. For example, many companies may offer to buy the hot water heater for you (they will help you select one), and then will roll their labor fees into the total cost.

As a result, many people end up paying as much as the cost of the heater itself for an easy, straight forward installation! For example, if your heater costs $700, your total charge will be $1,400, or more.

To avoid these types of companies, it is important to get estimates from 3-4 local professionals, and ask them exactly what type of work they will be performing. It is also a good idea to conduct your own research online, ask your neighbors, etc, to see how much homeowners in your area are spending on this home improvement project. If a contractor sees that you have done your research, he will most likely give you a fair price.

We strongly recommend paying for professional installation, as opposed to going DIY, because dealing with gas and electricity can be very dangerous!

There are four general types of water heaters: tank (storage), tankless, hybrid and solar. Tank and tankless models are the most popular, so we will focus on them.

If you have been researching various water heater options, you way be wondering if its worth it to pay more for a tankless model. Perhaps a traditional hot water heater would be just as good?

A storage tank is the most common and budget friendly water heater. It continuously heats and stores a specific amount of water (40, 50, 75, 100 gallons), in an insulated tank. The stored water is delivered via pipes, when its needed.

Lower-end models can cost as little as $300, but on average they run $650-850, by brands like Westinghouse. High-end tank heaters can cost over $1,000, by brands like A.O.Smith.

Pros to consider:

On demand or tankless water heaters DONT store water. Instead, they use special heating coils to heat water when you need it. These devices can cost significantly more than tank models of the same size (although high-end water heaters cost about the same). Prices start at around $800 for a gas heater from brands like Rheem, and can go up as high as $1,500+ for premium brands such as Noritz.

Electric tankless water heaters cost $160-500. EcoSmart, being a very popular, highly rated brand.

Pros to consider:

A typical on-demand unit is more expensive than a storage one, because it offers a number of significant advantages:

An electric water heater costs significantly less than a gas one. Among tankless models, the majority cost between $200-350. A device that costs between$700-800 is considered the very top of the line, from brands like Stiebel.

By comparison, the $700 dollar range is a fairly low average for a tankless gas water heater. The vast majority of gas devices cost between $1,200-1,800.

When it comes to storage water heaters the difference in price between electric vs gas-powered models is less pronounced. The range for most electric devices is $300-600, and you can find many gas heaters in the same price range. Still, gas tank style water heaters are more expensive overall, with many costing well over $1,500.

With tank-style models, the size of the water heater has a direct affect on the cost. The bigger the tank, the higher the price. The difference between 40 vs 50 gallons is about $150-250, depending on the manufacturer. However the difference between 50 vs. 75 gallons can be as high $400-600. Tanks that hold 100 gallons are very expensive. They often cost double or even triple the price of a 50 gallon tank of the same brand.

How to choose the right water heater (video):

Quickly determine the size water heater for your house

It all boils down to how much hot water you use. Some people like 30-minute showers and long baths, while others are in and out in 5 minutes, and never/rarely take a bath.

I was going to get us a 40 gallon tank, because I take 3-5 minute showers. But my plumber convinced me to go with 50 gallons, and he was absolutely right! My kids take baths (we have a large jacuzzi tub), and when they do, hot water disappears!

With tankless models, efficiency is determined by the maximum temperature rise possible at a given flow rate, known as GPM. Average size tankless heaters have a GPM rating between 5-6. More powerful devices can go as high as 11-12 GPM. Roughly, every additional GPM costs about $100 extra, depending on the manufacturer.

Keep in mind that gas tankless water heaters produce a larger temperature rise per GPM than electric models. This means that if your household water usage is very high and frequent, you are better off paying more for a tankless gas model.

Note, whether you go for a storage or tankless device, its important to get the RIGHT size, based on a real calculation of your households water usage. This may mean spending more money upfront, but its well worth it!

If you get a heater that is too small, your family will be very uncomfortable for the next 10-12 years in all daily tasks, from taking showers to doing laundry.

When you browse different devices, you will quickly notice that some water heater brands cost at least double the price of others, when all else is equal.

However, high-end brands are often more expensive for the following reasons:

they have better quality internal parts that last longer overall better design offer longer, more comprehensive warranties

Surely, you will also be paying a premium for the prestige of certain brands.

It may not be worth it to splurge thousands of dollars on a water heater by A.O Smith or Westinghouse, but it is also safer to steer clear of budget brands. While you will save a few hundred dollars upfront, in the long run, you will spend more on repairing or replacing a device that stopped working way before the expected end of life.

Your best bet is to go for good quality brands such as Rheem, Tagaki this is where the BEST VALUE is.

This depends on whether your house runs on a closed or an open water supply system. If you have a closed system, having a water heater expansion tank is a MUST. When the water in your tank gets heated, it naturally expands, this is called thermal expansion. As a result, pressure builds up, and this water needs somewhere to escape.

In an open system, the water will simply flow into the citys water supply. However, in a closed system, this water can cause your tank to burst, if it has nowhere to go. When you have this extra expansion tank, the water will temporarily go in there, and your house will be safe.

There are some easy ways to tell that your water heater is beginning to show signs of trouble. These may be fixable, but often signal that its time to get a new device.

Old age: if your water heater is older than 10 years, get ready to replace it within the next few years. Or you can do it now, instead of waiting for it leak or break

Sudden leakage around the water heater tank. This is a sign of serious internal damage, and you need to call a plumber right away

The water temperature is not as hot as it used to be, or worse yet, its cold

You hear loud crackling sounds or banging coming from the device

The color of the water that comes out is not clear. Often it has a rusty color

The hot water that comes out has an unusual smell, or an unpleasant taste

How much does a water heater cost?

Water Heater Repair

$250 - $350

40 Ga. Water Heater

$850 - $1100

Tankless Water Heater

$1200 - $3500

See costs in your areaStart Here - Enter Your Zip Code

Originally posted here:
2019 Costs to Install a Hot Water Heater

Energy efficiency is a top priority when it comes to shopping for your home's large appliances. A hot water heater will be used every single day, so you want the one that can perform the best for your home. Sears has a large selection of energy-efficient hot water heaters. Sears carries models from electric to tankless hot water heaters, so you can find one that fits your needs best and helps you save on utilities. With a new water heater andwater softeneryour home's water will have the feel and temperature you want all the time.

When shopping for your water heater, you'll want to check your state's requirements. Sears carries a number of gas water heaters that are compliant with California state laws. Even if you don't live in a state with specific requirements, you fan find a wide variety of options that will best suit your water usage needs. Consider how large your family is and how they use hot water so that no one in your home ends up surprised by cold water coming out of theshower head.

With a selection of electric water heaters, gas models and even hybrids, you can find a hot water heater that will make your showers comfortable and reinvigorating every time. Shop for your next water heater and all your other appliances at Sears.

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Hot Water Heaters | Best Water Heater Prices - Sears

Fast Water Heater Company is the hot water heater expert, having installed and replaced hundreds of thousands of water heaters during the past three decades.

What separates Fast from its competitors is the commitment to providing excellent customer service, abiding by all pertinent codes, and installations of the utmost safety. Regardless if you live in a single-family home, condo, apartment, mobile home or townhouse, you can count on same-day installations; just call by noon.

For all residential, tank-style water heaters, we offer free estimates. A skilled technician will arrive at your home with the water heater of your choice, go through a check-list of current local codes, and provide you with a no-cost, no-obligation final price. If you agree to the price, the technician will get it installed right away.

However, if you need to think about it for any reason, the technician will leave you with a free estimate. No pressure, no hastle.

To ensure high-quality work and customer peace of mind, all company technicians are background-checked, licensed, bonded, and thoroughly trained to safely and quickly replace and install water heaters. In addition to traditional tank water heaters, we also carry Energy Star units, tankless water heaters, and heat pump water heaters.

We install Rheem water heaters, and are an official service provider for the brand.

When you call, a dedicated installation coordinators will provide you with starting, package-pricing, which includes:

Your installer will arrive prepared to work, with a water heater ready to install. And, if youve been shopping around, we offer a 5% lowest price guarantee, as long as the competing quote is from a licensed professional who pulls permits (if required in your area).

Most importantly, our technicians are local to your area, which means they are up-to-date on all local plumbing codes, safety regulations and regional installation trends. Additionally, we have several warehouse facilities throughout our service areas so you can get hot water back quickly and efficiently.

Call us now to setup a new water heater installation or submit the form below to receive more information.

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Water Heater Installation | Same-Day Service & Replacement

All water heaters that burn natural gas or propane require a venting system. The process of burning of the gas is called combustion and it creates heat, exhaust gases (including highly poisonous carbon monoxide), and moisture. The water heater's ventilation system removes these byproducts from the home, making it a critical safety feature. In most cases, the type of ventilation system depends on the type of water heater.

All water heater venting systems use a vent duct or pipealso called a chimney or flueto bring exhaust gases from the water heater to the outdoors. The duct may be metal or plastic, depending on the type of vent system. Water heater ducts may lead directly outdoors, or they may tie into a larger vent duct that also serves a gas or propane furnace or boiler in the home. This is called a common vent configuration. In many cases, the exhaust from the larger appliance heats up the common vent, improving the flow of the water heater vent.

In addition to venting, gas and propane water heaters need an air supply for combustion. This may come from the atmospheric air in the house, or it can come through a vent pipe that pulls air from the outdoors.

The most common problem associated with water heater venting is a condition called backdrafting, in which exhaust from the water heater fails to exit the home via the vent and instead ends up in the house. Backdrafting can have many causes, but it is most commonly due to poor vent design or installation and/or an imbalance of air volume in the home. The latter is often a result of ventilation fans, such as bathroom or kitchen vent fans, that pull air out of the house and create a vacuum effect that draws exhaust downward and into the home from the water heater vent.

Some water heater venting systems remove the possibility of backdrafting with fan-assisted ventilation or direct venting technology.

Standard water heatersthe most common typeuse atmospheric venting. The vent consists of a vertical or upward-sloping vent duct that typically ties into a common vent. The system works solely through natural convectionbased on the principle that hot air rises. Hot exhaust from the water heater naturally rises up through the vent and into the air outdoors, creating a draw that promotes this upward airflow. The power of the draw increases as the vent duct heats up.

Atmospheric vent systems work well (and without electricity) if they are properly designed and the home does not have backdraft issues. Poorly designed vents commonly have insufficient draw and/or are highly susceptible to backdrafting.

Water heaters with power ventingcome with an electric blower fan (often very quiet) installed on top of the water heater and can have either vertical or horizontal vent ducts. Since the vent does not rely on the buoyancy of hot air it can be run horizontally to the outside of the house. The blower cools the air so the vent can be runin PVC pipe(rather than metal, as is required with atmospheric venting) and is easy to assemble. The water heater must have a nearby electrical outlet for powering the fan.

With a direct-vent system, air for combustion is drawn from a vent pipe that runsthrough an exterior wall or the roof. Exhaust gasses are vented outdoors through a separate vent duct or through a separate chamber of the same pipe (this requires a double-wall vent duct). Direct-vent systems essentially "breathe" outdoor air, so they are not subject to the effects of backdrafting in the home. They also reduce the risk of accidental fires caused by flammable vapors around the water heater.

Water heaters in mobile homes are similar to those used in standard homes, but they must be designed for this application.Manufacturers often will not warrant a water heater if it is installed in amobile homeand is not specifically approved for that use. Standard atmospheric water heaters in mobile homes often require an outside access panel. If a water heater is located inside of a mobile home without outside access it is most likely a sealed-combustion unit with direct venting.

More here:
What You Need to Know About Venting a Hot Water Heater

On average, water heaters last seven to ten years. Of course, this number is subject to many variables. Without maintenance and prompt plumbing repairs, a water heaters lifespan can be as short as four or five years. When your homes water heater reaches the five-year mark, you should have the water heater inspected and consider whether its time for a replacement. In many instances, repairs can allow your water heater to last for a longer period, and preventative maintenance is key to increasing your water heaters lifespan. Many components on a water heater can be replaced, except for the tank. Once the tank rusts, there is no way to repair it, and replacement is the only solution.

Our experienced plumbers can recommend the best water heater to meet your familys needs and budget. Our licensed and insured plumbers are trained professionals, so you can rest assured the water heater installation or replacement services we provide will be done to code and with the highest level of quality workmanship.

When selecting a new water heater, its important that you choose one that will provide enough hot water during peak hours without costing a fortune to operate. Whether you chose a conventional tank water heater, electric water heater, gas-fired water heater, tank less water heater, solar water heater, or hot water circulating pump, Benjamin Franklin Plumbing has you covered.

EndlessHot Water

The primary benefit that makes tankless water heaters so desirable is the fact that they can heat an unlimited amount of water. No more waiting for family members to get out of the shower only to find out all of the hot water is gone. Tankless water heaters can supply an unlimited amount of water, as long as there is power or gas.

Long Life Expectancy

On average, water heaters last seven to ten years. This is due to the fact that its tank is susceptible to rusting and other detrimental aspects such as accumulation of minerals which aggravate corrosion. On the other hand, tankless water heaters can last twice as long or longer depending on the model and the quality of the materials used by the manufacturer. selecting a new water heater, its important that you choose one that will provide enough hot water during peak hours without costing a fortune to operate.

Save Money

Although tankless water heaters have a higher up front cost, they will save you money in the long run due to their long life and exceptional energy usage. Tankless water heaters use 30-50% less energy than traditional units, saving the average family $100+ per year. They also last significantly longer than traditional water heaters. Finally, tankless water heaters will increase the resale value of your home, making them a great investment.

Whatever your water heater installation needs are, now is the time to call Benjamin Franklin Plumbing, our team will get the job done right the first time. We offer licensed and insured plumbers experienced with water heater installation, and can ensure you have the performance you need and the energy efficiency you desire.

Excerpt from:
Water Heater Installation | Benjamin Franklin Plumbing

For the best answers, search on this site https://shorturl.im/awhHn

I have had a lot of experience with these. There are several brands. I assume that you are going to use gas or propane, but there are electric models as well. Installation is not for the beginner. Gas piping usually takes special tools for threading, tests, and knowledge of what can go where and what cannot. Plumbing is the same, and there are locations that will not be approved for a water heater by code. Check with several licensed plumbers, see what brand that they use, and installed prices. Go for a direct-vent or sealed combustion type unit. They are much more efficient and eliminate additional holes being cut into the house. Rinnai is the brand that seems to have achieved the best reputation, but there are other brands out there. Check warranties and if the installer will do any warranty work without additional cost. Here's the upside: Endless hot water at a fuel-efficient rate, smaller footprint in your house. No tank constantly holding water. Here's the downside: Hot water diminishes in QUANTITY as opposed to reduction is heat, as with traditional water heaters. If you have several faucets on at once, the flow will be reduced, but the temperature will remain constant. They are expensive. Expect to pay up to five times or more the price of a tank water heater, but it MAY last twice as long. They are difficult to repair. You won't find parts at Home Depot, like you will for regular water heaters. I've seen hundreds go in and about half of the people are pleased, half say there is lifestyle adjustments to using them and they wouldn't do it again.

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Tankless water heater install - possible DIY job? | Yahoo Answers

So I've been shopping for a new water heater for about 3 months... i really would like to order one ASAP. I've spent hours reading manuals, and just finished speaking with 2 different installer companies, the manufacturer and the vendor.. none of them would give me an answer. So here I am. I will be getting ALL of my work reviewed by a licensed installer before actually using the unit.

Current setup:

40 gallon natural gas water heater - flute moves over 30" then goes direct up in a dual walled flute through to the roof. This seems to be the normal way of doing it in my area.

Want:

relocating to corner of house (no chimney right now) 60 gallon gas water heater - direct vent - non powered unit will have flute move across about 36" and will have about 40" of rise. I want to vent out of the side of the house rather than putting in a new chimney.

Essentially the flute would go > straight out top of water heater > immediate 90 degree turn to horizontal> straight(ish) horizontal for 30ish inches > 90 degree turn to vertical (up to main level) > 90 degree turn to horizontal (out to the exterior of house) > 90 degree turn to vertical > vent cap on top

This is the unit I was looking at:

https://www.homedepot.ca/product/rheem-rheem-performance-platinum-60-gal-gas-water-heater-with-12-year-warranty/1000792889

I like dealing with home depot because my fam had one break at 11 years and they replaced it no problems.

I was comparing it to this unit here:

http://www.gsw-wh.com/en/products/direct-vent

this unit doesn't seem to have any issues with venting out the side, and I was wondering if I can essentially do the same thing with the rheem 60 gallon and a similiar 90 degree vent.

I'll add that non one in my area was really familiar with venting a NON powered water heater out of the side of the house, is there another issue I should be concerned about?

Forgot to add, I'm in Ottawa, ON - cold climate winter / hot humid summer.

My current water heater is 22 years old

Is this idea safe with the 60 gallon water heater?

Would this install (which also has an additional vertical + horizontal elbow) be safe with the GSW 50 gallon? (rather than manufacturer who shows it just venting straight out)

Some photos of my current setup:

https://imgur.com/kPsoQgG https://imgur.com/zqJWlTs https://imgur.com/4yJ2oQK

xposted from HVAC as it wouldn't let me do it normally.

See the original post here:
Water Heater Install - Vent out side of house - Safe?

Nationally, the average water heater repair cost ranges between $120 and $200, although prices can range up to $400 or more. Water heater repair costs will depend on the type of water heater you have (tankless, electric, natural gas, etc.), the source of the problem, the cost for new parts, and labor rates in your area. Common water heater issues include problems with the thermocouple, thermostat, heating element and leaks. Most standard electric water heaters have two thermostats and two elements. One example for the cost to replace a bad thermostat is $185 for parts and labor. Replacing both the thermostat and the heating element could cost approximately $150-$200. The thermocouple is a safety device that senses when the pilot light is burning and signals the gas valve to close if the pilot light goes out. If your thermocouple is bad or corroded, the average cost to clean and repair it could be between $350 and $400. If your water heater has started to leak, it is usually more cost-effective to invest in a new water heater than to repair it, unless youre covered by a warranty.

The rest is here:
The 10 Best Water Heater Installers Near Me (with Free Estimates)

Professional siding installation goes hand in hand with the high quality, energy efficient products we offer. The siding installers working on your home will treat your home with great care and respect and leave you delighted with your new siding.

Our professional installation maximizes the efficiency and durability of your new siding. Every siding installer is trained on all the proper installing techniques and is considered a true expert in the field.

While your sales representative will take initial exterior measurements during your in-home demonstration, we will send a Measure Technician to your home a few days later to measure the project again. The technician will review the details of the project again, and make sure every detail is confirmed. Taking this extra step is a great double check as installing your siding right the first time is our priority.

Your siding installers are among the best contractors in the home improvement industry and we are proud to have worked on over 300,000 homes in the Midwest. The installers have great knowledge of our siding products and their expertise will be evident on installation day.

Your new siding will only perform as well as the installation, and your siding installer will take all steps necessary to complete the job to your utmost satisfaction. They will clean up after themselves and you wont even know they were there. They will treat your home and yard with respect and you will no doubt be pleased with their professionalism and attention to detail.

Let us take the hassle out of home improvement and install your new siding. All youll have to do is sit back, relax and enjoy how great your home looks after its transformation with our beautiful, durable, maintenance-free siding.

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Siding Installation and Installers - 4feldco.com

Recommended Fasteners

Hot-dipped galvanized, aluminum and stainless steel nails are all corrosion-resistant and can be used to nail Western Red Cedar. Other types of nails are not recommended. They can rust and disintegrate and react adversely with the natural preservative oils present in cedar resulting in stains and streaks. Copper nails also react with cedar and should not be used. Stainless steel nails are the best choice, especially if the siding is to be finished with transparent stain. Use No.304 stainless for general siding applications and No.316 for seacoast exposures.

For best results use splitless siding nails. These have thin shanks and blunt points to reduce splitting. For greater holding power, nails with ring threaded or spiral threaded shanks are recommended. Nails with textured heads can be used to reduce glossy spots at the nails when finishing (see figure on right for nail types).

Nails should be driven with care. Heavy nailing distorts the wood and may cause splitting. At mitered corners, near edges and near ends, nail holes may need to be pre-drilled to avoid splitting.The size of the nails to use depends on the type and thickness of siding. Good building practice is to use nails long enough to go through underlying materials, such as sheathing and insulation, and penetrate at least 1-1/4 (32mm). See table below for recommended nail lengths for various thicknesses of siding.Siding should be fastened to each stud or furring strip with nails spaced at a maximum of 24 (61cm) on center, nail placement depends on the siding pattern and width. The key is to fasten the siding securely without preventing it from moving in response to the moisture content of the air. In general, each piece of siding must be nailed independently.

Important: Nailing overlapping pieces together restricts the natural movement of each piece and will cause splitting.

Like all siding materials, Western Red Cedar performs best when installed properly on a suitable frame. Cedar siding should be securely nailed to framing members, furring members or to blocking between framing members. Lumber sizes and spacing for blocking and furring are shown in the table below.

Stud walls generally require no special preparation for horizontal siding installation. Siding should be nailed into studs at maximum 24 (61cm) centers when applied over wood-based, solid sheathing and 16 (41cm) on center when applied without sheathing. In those areas where an air space between siding and sheathing is desired, nail siding to furring strips.

For vertical siding installation, stud walls require horizontal blocking lines or furring strips. When applied over wood based sheathing, vertical siding should be nailed to horizontal blocking or other wood framing members not exceeding 36 (91cm) on center when face nailed or 32 (81cm) on center when blind nailed. When installed without sheathing, vertical siding should be nailed to wood framing or blocking members at 24 (61mm) on center. Check your local code to verify requirements.

Masonry walls require furring strips for horizontal and vertical siding installation. Furring strips must be thick enough to allow for nail penetration of 1-1/2 (38mm) into solid wood. Check your local code to verify requirements.

Rigid foam sheathing has an insulation value superior to that of traditional lumber and plywood sheathings. However, it has little or no nail holding power and using rigid foam sheathing as a nailing base for cedar siding is not recommended. For best results with rigid foam and other sheathing products, follow the nailing recommendations as to nail type, positioning, penetration and spacing. The table below provides nail length recommendations for siding and foam sheathing systems.

Foam sheathing panels vary in moisture permeability but are generally considered as good moisture barriers. They should be used with a continuous film vapour retarder on the inside wall under the interior finish or with foil-backed gypsum board. Rigid foam sheathing can cause moisture to accumulate on the back of siding and cause staining, buckling and damage to finish coats. The following recommendations are meant to minimize potential problems when Cedar sidings are applied over rigid foam sheathing:

High humidity output from washers, dryers, showers, kitchens and other sources, combined with todays energy-efficient construction, can result in a build up of interior moisture vapor. This vapor migrates through the fabric of a building from the warm interior to the cold exterior, and when it condenses to water can cause structural damage to sidings and finishes.

Vapor barriers installed on the warm side of the wall prevent most of the migration of moisture vapor but they have disadvantages. Residual vapor must be allowed to escape to the outside. Building paper installed on the outside face of the sheathing helps prevent rain and snow from penetrating the walls and also allows the escape of moisture vapor.

Proper wall construction includes the use of gas permeable paper and vapor barriers, such as DuPont Tyvek DrainWrap (see diagram above). These are extremely effective in helping to prevent moisture problems. DuPont Tyvek DrainWrap provides a building drainage system and weather barrier for areas that require maximum water drainage

Keep the lowest edge of siding at least 6 off the ground and coat end grain at the bottom of vertical siding with water repellant.

Thorough caulking of all joints is recommended including butt joints and where siding contacts openings or trim. Use only non-hardening caulks such as polyurethane, polysulfide or latex-silicone. Pure silicon caulks do not work well on cedar and are not recommended.

Do not reduce the siding overlap recommendations given in the installation sections of this publication. To do so could result in damage from wind-driven water.

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Western Red Cedar Siding Pre-Installation - Real Cedar