PacTool International SA902 Gecko Gauge, Fiber Cement Siding

Used these gauges for installing Hardy Plank on my shed. As one of us cut the planking, the other installed onto the shed. Like any construction product - preparation simplifies the process. My helper had used them before which sped things along quite quickly. For two old guys - we planked the shed in two days.

So good, so worth it. It's like having 4 hands. Going up a ladder with a plank, a nailer, and a level, you still do not need another person to help you with this. If you are working alone, I actually am not sure how you side the house without these. I'm sure you would have to fabricate something similar. Even working with another person, I found these to be amazing. Have the other guy be cut man on the ground, and keep sending you up pieces that you set perfectly each time without having to re-measure. For the first 1/2 of the house I did, were were constantly re-checking level, and our layout and it was a good thing we did, these gauges take getting used to. Make sure you flush the gauge all the way up to the bottom of the board. Sometimes they can sit in an angle, and that 1/8th inch on 1 board can get out of hand in a couple rows if you aren't paying attention. Also make sure you keep the height adjustment bolts tight. I actually lost one of my plastic washers, but was able to find the bolt. Probably not that hard to replace, but just a hassle. If you are going to have these higher than a few feet over anything but grass, buy these and not the plastic ones. I dropped mine on concrete from about 20 feet and dented a corner, still works perfectly. These hold real well, I felt comfortable in how well these held on to slide in 12' boards from a ladder 10' away. Even with the tight grip, there was no damage to any of the boards. The locking handle moves super easy, doesn't take hard wrenching or anything that could be problematic on a really high ladder. Does only 1" increments for reveals. 5",6",7",8". Probably not an issue for most, but something to keep in mind. Still an excellent tool for holding a plank in place, even if I had to fudge a board 1/4"-1/2" or so to adjust my layout. I bought these for 1 siding job and found them to be worth the money. I sold them to my carpenter for 50% cost, but I'm sure you could do better if you wanted.

put siding up on verandah wall. could not have got the same result without this tool. easy to use and well made. highly recommended

My husband used this clamps for cladding front and back of the house on his own. Five star definitely.

Great quality product