Expert: Bruce E. Johnson - 8/4/2011

Question
QUESTION: My house is partially brick and partially tongue & groove cedar siding.  I would like to put cedar over the brick.  What is the best way to attach 2x2's or furring strips to the brick?  I have tapconned a few things to the brick and it is very hard to drill into.  

Thanks
JW

ANSWER: hi Jeff, did you try tapconning into the mortar joint instead of the brick?  That might be easier.  Also, 1x2 or 1x4 pt would suffice for the furring, 2x2 is not necessary unless it works for you dimension wise.  Another option is to use a hilti or ramset to shoot the furring on with nails or if you have a compressor handy you can rent a t=nailer or other pneumatic nailer for concrete and shoot the strips on that way..Again, shooting into the mortar joints makes more sense.  Another good option is to use an exterior adhesive like Liquid Nails exterior construction adhesive in tandem with tapcons (you can use less tapcons with the adhesive)..sincerely bruce e johnson

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: I was going to use 1x6 tongue & groove cedar siding. Is a 1x2 or 1x3 thick enough to nail into?  That's why I was considering using 2x2's.

Thanks
JW

Answer
Hi again JW, normally when blind nailing tongue and groove it is done at an angle so the thickness of your furring isn't as critical as you may think since the nail enters the furring strip at a downward angle and should still give you good penetration and holding power.  That being said, if you feel more comfortable with 2x material there is nothing saying it can't be used.  As long as your furring is properly secured to the substrate you will be fine in all instances.  One other note, you might want to seal the brick with a good foundation mastic prior to installing your furring.  This will give your wall added protection against the elements should rain penetrate the siding.  Sincerely Bruce Johnson