DIY Vinyl Siding
DIY Vinyl Siding Can Beautify Your Home, Reduce Maintenance, and Save You Money
Installing vinyl siding is an excellent alternative to repainting the exterior of your home every few years. Vinyl siding with color embedded in the material is virtually maintenance-free. DIY vinyl siding installation is relatively easy, provided you have the time and an extra pair of hands or two.
An Accurate Estimate Is Key with DIY Vinyl Siding
Determine the correct amount of materials you need. Measure the perimeter of the house and multiply by the height to get the main square footage. Be sure to include gable walls and odd angles. Subtract the square footage of all major openings such as doors and windows to arrive at a good estimate. Measure the perimeter of all the openings to calculate trim pieces needed.
Proper Preparation Is Critical
Use 1-inch by 3-inch furring strips to provide an even nailing surface if you are installing the siding over existing wood or stucco. Remove all obstructions (downspouts, lights, shrubbery) before you begin. Make sure you have all the tools you need, and one or two helpers.
Follow the Manufacturer's Instructions for DIY Vinyl Siding Installation
Most manufacturers provide a manual detailing the installation steps. This usually involves installing the corner caps and J-strips first, before you begin nailing the siding to the house. Here are a few tips to remember:
Nail in the center of the slot to allow horizontal movement.
Never nail through the vinyl. Use a nail hole punch to make a slot if there isn't one where you need it.
Leave 1/4-inch clearance at the ends of the channels where they meet the corner caps and trim. If your temperatures drop below freezing, allow 3/8-inch clearance.
Depending on the size of your home, plan on two to three days for DIY vinyl siding installation.
