Vinyl is one of the most popular siding materials because it is cheaper, offers several styles, requires minimal maintenance, and is easy to install.
Depending on the size of the house, hiring a contractor to install vinyl siding could cost between $2,500 and $43,000. Installing the siding yourself is a great way to save money, the downside is installing siding is a long process and requires some carpentry skills.
For those interested in doing the work, this page will take you through siding installation and offer additional tips.
When nailing vinyl siding, always start with the middle nail slot and move towards the ends. Keep the nails level without making them too tight. Leave a small gap (1/32-inch) between the head of the nail and the siding to allow expansion and contraction.
When cutting vinyl siding, remember it will likely expand in the summer heat. Without room to spread out, the siding will buckle. Allow at least 1/4 inch of space so the panels can slide back and forth.
Before installing your siding, you remove the old material from the house. Use a zip tool to unhook the siding panels from each other.
2. Install Sheathing
Attaching sheathing to the side of your home provides a smooth surface to attach the siding. The different materials are OSB, plywood, or foam plastic. Plastic can serve as insulation. Install flashing around windows, doors, and corner posts to create a water-resistant barrier.
3. Install Starter Strip
The starter strip goes over the sheathing. Level the strip. Otherwise, everything else will be out of position. Nail the starter strip to the bottom. Once attached, the siding attaches to the portion of the strip that sticks up. Use a laser or caulk line to keep the strips level. Check your accuracy as you work to stay level.
4. Install Inside Corners
Place inside corners where the walls meet on the inside. The corner needs to extend 3/4 inch past the bottom of the starter strip. Hold the inside corner and nail it in place. Nail the inside corners one side at a time with the nails 12 to 14 inches apart.
5. Install Outside Corners
Installing outside corners is similar to inside corners. The outside corner also needs to extend 3/4 inch past the bottom of the starter strip. Hold the inside corner and nail it in place. Nail the outside corners one side at a time with the nails 12 to 14 inches apart.
6. Install Vinyl Siding Panels
Once you’ve installed the starter strip, and the pieces, you are ready to install the siding panels. You need to cut the panels so they fit properly. As mentioned earlier, you need to cut the pieces short to allow for expanding and contracting during summer and winter. A 1/32-inch gap must also be left between the nail head and the wall.
The second panel must be clipped to the first panel before it can be secured. If the panel is not clipped to the one below it, you may not be able to fix it later; you would need to uninstall it and start again.
7. Install J-Channel
After installing the siding panels on the house, it is time to install the J-channel or J-trim around doors and windows. To measure, hold the J-Channel against the door or window and mark where the window or door ends on each side. After you make the marks, cut the trim. Hold the J-channel in place and nail each end. You need to space the nails 12 inches apart.
If you decide to install vinyl siding, it's important to understand the proper installation process. Placing the panels too close together can cause them to buckle as they expand. Be sure to leave space between the nail head and the wall to allow for movement.
Ensure you have all the necessary tools before starting the installation, and double-check your measurements as you go along to ensure a smooth process.
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