Tips For Getting Started With Installing New Vinyl Siding
If you are ready to replace your home's vinyl siding, you may be wondering if this is a job that you can take on yourself. Here are some tips for starting the vinyl siding installation so that you will know what to expect.
Gather Your Tools
There are a few basic tools you need to install vinyl siding. Tin snips are necessary to cut the sections of vinyl siding, as well as a hammer to drive in all the nails. You'll also need a chalk line, measuring tape, and level. All of these items can be purchased at a local home improvement store.
Install The Corners
The first step is to install the corners for the vinyl siding to attach to. You'll want to make sure that the corners overlap the foundation slightly so that all rain flows past the foundation instead of getting into the foundation. When installing the corners, it will help to snap a chalk line vertically up the side of the home so that you know where the corner section will come out to. This will help make the corner pieces even across the entire home.
If your home has a bird box beneath the roof, you'll need to trim the corner piece so that it goes around the bird box and cut out part of the piece with tin snips. Be aware that it helps to cut out the corner piece into small sections. Don't assume that you can cut across the entire surface as if you are using scissors.
Install The E-Blocks
If you have electrical outlets on the side of your home, you'll need to put an e-block around the outlet. This acts much like a piece of flashing, which will give some material around the outlet to overlap the siding with. This will prevent water from getting into your home. E-blocks simply need to be nailed into the wall after being placed around an outlet.
Install The Starter Strips
A starter strip needs to be attached to the bottom of your home to place the first piece of vinyl siding. It will help to caulk a line across the side of the home to make sure that the strip is installed at the proper level. Don't assume that any part of your home's exterior structure is level and a good reference point. Nail the starter strip loosely across the side of your home, then go back and check it with a level. Seem too difficult? Hire a vinyl siding professional to handle this job for you.
For more information on siding, contact a company near you.