The TimberTech Open-Joint Cladding Installation Guide (2025 PDF) provides complete instructions for installing TimberTech’s square-shouldered PVC cladding in both horizontal and vertical applications. This guide outlines how to prepare the wall, install furring strips, set fasteners correctly for each board width, allow for expansion and contraction, and finish corners, windows, and door openings for a clean, consistent exterior finish.
The guide begins with essential preparation steps: confirming the wall is weather-tight, applying a black vapor-permeable WRB, identifying all stud locations, and leveling furring strips so the finished surface sits flat. TimberTech stresses that Open-Joint Cladding is a one-sided product and must be installed with the grain side facing outward, and that 20′ boards are not approved for cladding applications.
Horizontal installation includes details for wood, masonry, and metal substrates. Furring must be installed 16″ on center using pressure-treated plywood or Z-girts/hat channel fastened into structural framing. Installers will find fastener placement diagrams for 3-1/2″, 5-1/2″, and 7-1/4″ boards, along with instructions for maintaining the required 1/8″ gap between courses for airflow and installing all butt joints tight regardless of temperature.
Vertical installation includes a two-layer furring approach: ½” pressure-treated plywood furring strips installed vertically 16″ OC to create a drainage plane, followed by horizontal 2×4 furring strips spaced 16″ OC. The guide provides step-by-step instructions for positioning boards, staggering butt joints, fastening into horizontal furring, and building proper ventilation paths behind the cladding.
Additional sections cover trimming windows and doors with TimberTech boards or AZEK Trim, mitering outside corners, adding structural blocking where needed, and using Cortex® or stainless fasteners for wood, masonry, or metal substrates. The guide also includes clear expansion-and-contraction notes, storage requirements, Low-E glass heat warnings, and cleaning recommendations.
Download the full TimberTech Open-Joint Cladding Installation Guide (2025 PDF) below for diagrams, fastening schedules, airflow notes, and complete installation requirements. For help choosing the right TimberTech cladding or planning a full exterior package, your TimberTown team is always here to help.
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