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Nail-Base Sheathing for Siding and Trim Attachment Construction Guide

Technical Guides

Wood structural panels are recognized by building codes for their strength and performance in wall construction. Walls that are continuously sheathed with wood structural panels can provide an excellent nail base for finish siding and trim. In typical construction, siding, trim and brick ties are attached to framing members. According to the code, they can also be attached directly to nail-base (also called nailable) structural sheathing when the correct fastening method is used.

This publication is designed for: designers, builders, contractors

This APA guide provides an easy method for determining the type and spacing of siding fasteners to satisfy building code requirements when using wood structural panel sheathing as a nail base.

Key sections include:

  • Code benefits of using continuous sheathing

  • How to save steps in siding installation

  • Testing and code acceptance

  • How to use continuous wood structural panel sheathing as a nail base for siding

  • Advantages of continuously sheathing walls with plywood or OSB

  • Additional information on IRC-compliant continuous sheathing and wall construction

Published by APA — The Engineered Wood Association.