What is the standard technique in nailing cedar siding to my home?

Question

I'll be nailing up 1" by 10" cedar boards horizontally with 2" overlaps. I've seen it started at the bottom and the next board going up overlaps the one below by 2" and he then nailed close to the bottom of this second board in order to penetrate the top of the one below it. I've also seen each of these boards nailed almost dead center along the course of each board with no thought of picking up the former board with a nail. All overlapping each other 2" like in the first nailing method. So which is best, classier looking, lasts better and is the way a true professional would do it? I would pilot hole before nailing to prevent spitting unlike many outcomes I've seen. Also galvanized nails, but this nailing pattern confuses me. Thanks for any knowledegable input.

Answer 1

You should ask an illegal immigrante, who doesnt speak english, I used to do this type of work, but apparently, i dont know anything, being an American and all,  go down to the street corner and ask them..    Hint..  english is used in America..  it is now the minorty language.....good luck

Answer 2

I will assume (bad word!) you will be installing lap siding.  If that's the case:  

Be sure the siding is acclimated before you install!

Don't  nail through the overlaps.

Use two nails, one inch up from the overlap per bearing or stud.  

Allow a 1/8-inch expansion gap between the pieces if the siding is air or kiln dried.

Bit different for bevel cedar siding!

You're right about the nailing dead center business.   Looks like c**p and may curl.

Also, stainless steel nails are best, galvanized run second.

Not necessary to pre-drill all the holes, just the ends.

Good luck!

Answer 3

nail as low as possible on the underlying shingle,but high enough to be covered by the next row of shingles.You could use some sort of adhesive(Liguid Nails) between course of shingles if you wish