Cedar sidewall assembly — a vented rainscreen gap keeps the shakes drying
Behind cedar shakes: sheathing, WRB, then vertical furring that opens a vented rainscreen gap so the shakes can dry from behind. The bottom course is doubled as a starter.
What this diagram shows
A vertical section through a cedar shake sidewall, from inside to outside: stud framing, wall sheathing, a water-resistive barrier, vertical furring strips that hold the shakes off the barrier to form a vented rainscreen gap, and the cedar shakes, which are doubled at the very bottom as a starter course. Air drains and dries the gap behind the shakes. Skipping the gap traps moisture and rots the backs of the shakes.
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Cedar Shake Siding Calculator
Free cedar shake & shingle siding calculator — bundles and squares by weather exposure, single or double course, with corners, coursing and fasteners.
