If i am installing a prefinished product which i do mostly i use a color osi match caulk.
Caulking cedar lap siding.
When deciding how to use caulk on your siding however it is generally more important to consider where you should not use it.
Corner boards are applied to the sheathing with siding fitting tightly against the narrow edge of the boards allowing for expansion and an adequate caulking bead.
It is generally not a good idea to use caulking on wood siding.
When you try to restrict either it is at your peril.
Caulk by its adhesive nature will try to limit this movement leading to widespread failure and cracking in the caulk over time.
If overused or incorrectly placed siding caulk can cause more damage to your exterior than good.
The corner boards and the ends of the siding are nailed to the corner studs which anchors the wood for a maintenance free joint.
Think of a wood home as a living thing.
I m not a painter but i do install cedar siding and i always caulk all the joints.
The siding expands and contracts with temperature and humidity.
If i install a non finished product i usually go with a 3m paintable caulk.
Natural siding boards are designed to expand and contract with the elements and we do not want any adhesive to prevent their natural movement.
Generally we do not recommend caulking butt joints on cedar siding.
How to caulk the window trim on lap siding.
Whether you are repainting replacing a window or replacing the siding on your house the caulking around the window trim is a very important element.