A nailing schedule tells you three things: what fastener to use, how far it has to penetrate the framing, and how far apart to space fasteners at the panel edges versus in the field. Panel siding is typically fastened more tightly along the edges than in the field, with corrosion-resistant fasteners, but the exact spacing and fastener call come from your panel manufacturer and the APA, and they vary by product. We do not publish one universal number, because using the wrong one is how installs fail. Pull the figure from your panel's current printed instructions.
The three things a schedule governs
1. Fastener type and corrosion resistance
Engineered-wood and plywood panel sidings call for corrosion-resistant fasteners, commonly hot-dipped galvanized or stainless, because a plain fastener will bleed and can fail over time. Your manufacturer names the acceptable fastener types. Match them exactly.
2. Penetration into framing
The fastener has to reach a minimum depth into the stud or nailable sheathing to hold. That minimum is set by the panel product and the fastener, so a longer fastener is needed on thicker panels or over foam.
3. Spacing: edges versus field
Panel siding is fastened at a tighter spacing around the perimeter of each sheet and a wider spacing through the field. The specific numbers are published by the manufacturer and referenced in APA panel-siding documents. Do not assume one panel's schedule applies to another.
Where to find your exact schedule
- The panel manufacturer's installation instructions for your exact product. This governs.
- APA panel-siding guidance for the general fastening approach the manufacturers build on.
- Your local code and inspector, which can require more in high-wind or seismic zones.
Where a support tool fits
None of this changes the schedule. A support tool holds the panel dead level and steady so both hands are free to fasten to the schedule your manufacturer set, on a minimum two-person crew. Getting the panel held right is what makes hitting the schedule easy.