The Perfect Siding For Your Dog's House

Installing siding on a dog house can be a fun and rewarding project for any pet owner. It is important to select the right materials and follow the proper steps to ensure a durable and aesthetically pleasing final product. This process can be done using wood, metal, or plastic siding, each with its own advantages and installation methods. The steps outlined in this paragraph will guide you through the process of installing siding on a dog house, ensuring a comfortable and stylish home for your furry friend.

Cut and install siding on the sides

To cut and install siding on the sides of your dog house, you will need to follow these steps:

First, decide which type of siding you want to use. In this case, we will be using cedar boards to create a custom shiplap siding. These boards usually have one smooth face and one rough face, so choose which side you want to be the "front" or "show" face.

Next, you will need to cut your boards to the appropriate length. For the sides of the dog house, cut two pieces with the solid edge and the rabbet on the back face to 26" long. Cut another two pieces with both edges rabbeted to 26" long. Finally, cut two more pieces with the solid edge and the front face rabbeted to 26" long.

Now you are ready to start installing the siding. Start 3/4" from the top of each side wall, with the solid edge of the siding up. Make sure the ends of the siding are flush with the front and back of the dog house frame. Secure the siding by driving two 4d nails through the face of the siding into each stud.

Fit the next piece of siding by matching the lap of the previous piece and nailing it in place. For the bottom piece, use the piece with the rabbet on the back face and the solid edge at the bottom. Install this piece in the same manner as the others.

Repeat this process on the other side of the dog house.

When installing shiplap boards, it is important to pay attention to the weather. If it is hot and humid, do not leave a gap between the boards. If it is cold and dry, use a nickel as a spacer at each end of the boards. Wood expands across its width in warm, humid weather, so leaving a gap in dry conditions will prevent the siding from buckling in the summer. Conversely, if it is humid and you leave a gap, that gap will become too big in the winter.

Cut and install siding on the back

To cut and install siding on the back of your dog house, follow these steps:

First, cut a piece of siding with a solid edge and a rabbet on the front face to 24-and-a-half inches long. Align the bottom edge of this piece with the bottom edges of the siding on the side walls. Make sure all edges are flush and attach with two 4d nails into each stud, as before.

Next, cut two pieces with rabbets on both faces to 24-and-a-half inches long and affix the first piece to the house, as before, with the rabbets interlocking to form a shiplap. Before nailing the second piece, hold it in place and mark lines where the corners protrude above the rafters. Cut along these lines, then nail the piece of siding in place.

Now, measure across the top of the last piece of siding and cut a piece with two rabbets to this length (should be about 18-and-a-half inches long). Hold this piece in place, mark, cut the corners as before, then nail it in place.

Finally, measure from the top edge of the rabbet to the bottom of the ridge beam. Also, measure the width of the top of this piece. Cut a piece of siding to fit across the top, then cut to fit in the space between the top piece of siding and the ridge beam. Hold the top piece in place, mark the corners, cut, and nail it in place.

Install siding on the front

The front procedure is similar to the back, but it also involves cutting in the door.

First, cut a piece with a solid edge and a rabbet on the front face to 24-1/2”. Hold it flush with the siding on the side walls. Trace lines where the door should be cut, then cut the lines with a jigsaw.

Nail the bottom piece of siding on with two nails in each stud, and three beneath the door opening. Cut two pieces with two rabbets to 7” long. Nail them in place on either side of the door.

Cut another piece with two rabbets to 24-1/2” and hold it in place. Mark the door opening and the two corners. If you like, the top of the door opening can be shaped like an arch, an angle, scrollwork, or square.

Finish out the front wall with the same procedure as the back wall. This step is easier with a helper but one person can do it with clamps or temporary screws.

Prime or coat wood siding

Priming and coating the wood siding of your dog house is an important step to ensure its longevity and protect it from the elements. Here are some detailed instructions to guide you through the process:

Preparation:

Before you begin priming and coating, there are a few essential steps to follow. Firstly, clean the exterior of the dog house by hosing down the siding. Avoid using a pressure washer on full power, as it may damage the wood. Remove any mould, mildew, and algae buildup using appropriate cleaning agents, and allow the siding to dry thoroughly.

Next, use a paint scraper to remove any loose or flaking paint, keeping the blade flat against the wood to prevent gouge marks. Smooth out any rough spots with a hand or power sander, being careful not to push too hard and leave marks on the wood.

Priming:

Priming the wood siding is crucial, especially if you're using new or bare wood. It helps the paint adhere better and provides a more uniform finish. Use an oil-based exterior primer and apply it to the front, back, edges, and ends of the siding before installation. If you live in an area with mildew issues, consider adding an M-1 Mildewcide additive to the primer and paint.

Painting:

Once the primer is dry, it's time to apply the paint. Use a top-quality latex exterior house paint and apply at least two coats for the best protection. Start at the top of the dog house and work your way down, painting the walls first and then the trim. Try to brush from one wet surface to another to avoid "lap marks." Allow the first coat to dry completely before applying the second coat.

Maintenance:

To extend the life of your paint job, regular maintenance is essential. Remove mould and mildew, inspect and replace caulking as needed, and touch up any blisters or peels before they spread. Ensure gutters and downspouts are clean and functioning to direct water away from the dog house, preventing mould, mildew, and rot.

Remember, wood siding typically needs to be repainted every 3-5 years, depending on your climate, to maintain its appearance and protect it from deterioration.

Finish the top of the siding

Now that you have installed the siding on the sides, back, and front of the dog house, it's time to finish the top.

To finish the top of the siding, you will need to follow these steps:

Step 1: Measure the Top Edge of the Siding

Using a measuring tape, determine the width of the top edge of the siding. This measurement will be used to cut a piece of siding that fits perfectly along the top.

Step 2: Cut a Piece of Siding to Size

Based on the measurement from Step 1, cut a piece of siding that will fit across the top edge. Make sure to cut it with a slight angle or curve if needed, so it sits flush with the ridge beam and rafters.

Step 3: Install the Top Piece

Hold the top piece of siding in place, ensuring it sits snugly against the ridge beam and rafters. Use a pencil to mark the corners where the siding overlaps the rafters. Cut along these lines with a jigsaw for a precise fit.

Step 4: Secure the Top Piece

Nail or screw the top piece of siding in place. Use galvanized steel nails or exterior-rated screws appropriate for the type of siding you are using. Make sure to space the fasteners evenly and drive them below the surface, if possible, for a neat finish.

Step 5: Caulk and Seal (Optional)

If desired, apply a bead of exterior-grade caulk along the top edge of the siding where it meets the roof. This will help seal the dog house from the elements and give it a more finished appearance.

Step 6: Paint or Stain (Optional)

If you plan to paint or stain the dog house, now is the time to do it. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for the best results, and make sure to choose a paint or stain that is suitable for exterior use and the type of siding you are using.

Finishing the top of the siding is a crucial step in building a dog house, as it helps ensure the structure is weatherproof and aesthetically pleasing. By following these steps, you can confidently complete this part of the project and move on to the final touches, such as insulating the dog house or adding a door.

Frequently asked questions