Siding Installation – How to Properly Install Siding

Siding is one of the largest investments you can make for your home, protecting it against weather damage for years to come. So it’s essential that it is installed correctly to ensure optimal protection from external elements.

Installing siding correctly can give you long-lasting results and prevent expensive repair bills in the future. Being informed about how the process works can give you realistic expectations and make for a stress-free siding installation experience.

Materials

The initial step in siding installation is selecting the appropriate material. This can be challenging due to all of the different exterior cladding materials available.

You have several siding options to choose from, such as wood, steel, brick, stucco, glass or fiber cement siding. Each offers its own advantages in terms of aesthetic appeal, durability and ease of upkeep.

However, they also require a considerable amount of maintenance on your part to stay looking their best. For instance, wood siding needs painting or staining every few years and you may have to deal with rotting wood or mold growth.

Other durable siding options include aluminum and metal, which offer resistance to bugs and fire while needing low upkeep. Unfortunately, they can rust in wet or coastal climates. Alternatively, vinyl is an affordable, long-lasting choice with various attractive finishes available.

Installation

Siding installation is a laborious and time-consuming process that may take weeks. This includes the removal of existing siding, preparatory work, insulation, and new installation.

When selecting home siding materials, the type of material used can significantly impact both cost and duration. Popular options for siding include wood, stone, brick, and fiber cement.

Once you have selected your materials, it is time to prepare for installation. Make sure all areas of your home that could potentially hinder contractors while they work are cleared away.

Siding projects require a great deal of labor, so it’s essential to select an experienced contractor who will finish the job on schedule. Paying by the hour may be more beneficial in these instances than paying a flat fee.

Preparation

Siding installation is a job that requires extensive preparation to guarantee it runs smoothly. Before the work crew arrives on your property, make sure your yard is free of all furniture, potted plants and outdoor appliances that could obstruct their progress during installation.

Once you’ve cleared away any overgrown trees or shrubs that could hinder the professionals from using a magnetic nail finder to pick up stray nails and staples. Furthermore, keep your lawn short so it’s easier to mow quickly.

Measure the width of every wall from the bottom edge to the gable peak and then measure its height from eave to ground. These measurements are used to create J-channel strips which fit into siding panels’ edges and are trimmed to match your home’s exterior wall length. Corner moldings can then be created based on these same measurements for a finished look as well as protection against mice or other pests.

Finishing

Siding installation is a specialized task that necessitates specific tools and methods. Fortunately, most contractors are experienced experts who can offer guidance throughout the project.

Once the base layer of OSB, weather barrier, trim and flashing has been installed, it’s time to begin installing siding panels. Each panel must be cut precisely to its desired length and angle.

Under the first course of siding, a starter strip is typically installed beneath to simulate overlap and ensure each panel is oriented at the proper angle. After installing the starter strip, nails should be driven into place at intervals of about 16 inches to secure the siding into place.

Once the siding is installed, it will need to be caulked and painted. Use a high-quality, long-lasting paint for maximum longevity of the siding.