Hints on Fixing Cypress

Whilst a conifer species (softwood), Cypress properties relate more closely to those of a hardwood. It has an extremely dense and tight grain, hence care needs to be taken when fixing, as some splitting can occur.

• When nailing, blunt, shear or chisel point nails should be used wherever possible.
  This type of nail is generally available for 'Finish' and 'Framing' nail guns. (eg. Bostitch)
  
  
• Where a nail gun is to be used and blunt, shear or chisel point nails are not available,
  removing the points of the nail with a grinder or belt sander prior to installation,
  will reduce the likely hood of splitting.
  
  
• For hand nailing, a better result is achieved when the nail points are blunted slightly, with a hammer prior to nailing.
  For best results, nail holes should be pre-drilled to 80% of the diameter of the nail, particularly when nailing close to ends.
  
  
• All screw fixings should be pre-drilled to the root diameter of the screw to be used.
  For larger diameter screws the application of a small amount of water-proof grease
  can greatly assist in the installation and durability of the fixing.
  
  
• Fixings should be chosen for their corrosion resistance, to suit the environment in which they are to be used.