Alright, so you're thinking about new siding for your house here in Lehi. Maybe you've picked out the material – fiber cement, vinyl, whatever – but have you thought about how it's actually going to get put on? Most folks don't, and that's okay. That's why I'm here. There are two main ways we attach siding, and knowing the difference can save you headaches down the road. We're talking about nail-flange (or face-nailing) versus blind-nailing.
What's the Big Difference?
It really just boils down to whether you see the nails or not. Simple as that, right? But that simple difference actually causes a ripple effect, impacting everything from how long your siding lasts to how your home looks.
Nail-Flange (or Face-Nailing)
This method is pretty straightforward. You've got a piece of siding, and we nail it right through its face, directly into the wall sheathing and studs. So, yeah, the nails are visible. Think about traditional lap siding or even some types of board and batten; the nails are part of the look, sometimes even painted to match the siding.
- Cost: Generally, this method tends to be a bit quicker to install. That can shave a little off your labor costs. The siding itself might be slightly less expensive too, since it doesn't need a fancy hidden nailing hem.
- Durability: When we do it right, it's very secure. Those nails are driven straight through. But, because the nails are exposed, they're susceptible to the elements. We see a lot of homes in older Lehi neighborhoods, especially up by Traverse Mountain, where the sun just bakes those nail heads. Over time, that can lead to rust streaks, or the nail heads might pop if the siding expands and contracts a lot. You also have more penetrations in the siding itself, which means more potential spots for water to get in if they're not sealed perfectly.
- Maintenance: You'll definitely need to keep an eye on those exposed nail heads. They might need re-caulking or painting over the years, especially when you're battling our intense summer sun and the freeze-thaw cycles we get here.
- Appearance: The nails are visible, plain and simple. Some people really like that traditional, rustic look. Others, though, prefer a cleaner aesthetic. It's really just a matter of taste.
Blind-Nailing
This is where the magic happens, or at least, where the nails disappear. With blind-nailing, the siding is designed with a specific lip or