Replacing vinyl siding

Although vinyl siding is resistant, it can be damaged by the heat of a barbecue, or quite simply break. Luckily, you can replace it in a few hours, using the following steps. Note that the technique described here also applies to replacing aluminium siding, except that vinyl is a much more flexible material and thus easier to work with than aluminium.
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Tips
1. Measuring the siding to be replaced
2. Removing the damaged siding
3. Installing the new siding
4. Caulking

Tips

Before heading to the store, make sure you note the measurements, brand and colour of your vinyl siding. Moreover, since vinyl siding fades over time, it is better to replace a damaged board on a highly visible wall with one from a less visible wall (such as your home’s back wall). The new siding can then be installed where the difference in colour will be less obvious. When you install new siding, always save a few boards to ensure that you have the same colour and model of siding on hand if ever a board breaks.

1. Measuring the siding to be replaced

Using a tape measure, determine the length of the section to be replaced, and add at least one half-inch to allow the vinyl to expand. Cut the siding to the required length with a utility knife. Note that vinyl siding is sold in standard lengths of 10 and 12-1/2 feet.

2. Removing the damaged siding

First, loosen the section located just above the damaged siding. To do so, insert a siding removal tool into the J-channel of the damaged siding. Starting in the centre and moving toward each end, unhook the overlapping siding as if you were removing a bottle cap. The upper section, corner mouldings and trim pieces, which are also grooved, should stay in place. Remove the nails that hold the damaged siding to the furring.

3. Installing the new siding

Install the new section by lining it up to the piece below. You can also match it to the previous set of nail holes. Nail the section to the furring, making sure you leave at least 1/4 inch (0.6 cm) at each end. Use galvanized or stainless, 1-1/2-inch, wide-headed (5/16 of an inch) roofing nails. Hammer new nails in just next to existing nail holes, starting at the centre and moving toward each end of the piece. As you advance, use a pry bar to push in the nails. They should be hammered in loosely, so that the siding can expand. The nails should stick out by about 1/16 of an inch and sit at a 90-degree angle to the siding. Using the siding removal tool, hook the siding above into the J-channel of the new section, and then snap the lip of the new section into the J-channel of the piece below. If the new section is to overlap existing siding at the ends, allow at least two extra inches (5 cm) in your measurements.

Tip: Make sure the siding lip is not sitting directly in the bottom of the J-channel, in order to leave room for the siding to expand.

4. Caulking

The final step is to caulk the outside joint between the siding and the moulding to prevent water infiltration.
Caution: Never use oil-based products.
Although almost anyone is capable of replacing vinyl siding, the care that you take in doing each step will show in the results. It’s a good idea to work with a partner, especially when ensuring new siding is level and nailing it to the furring. And depending on the type and model of siding that you need to replace, consult your dealer if a problem arises, or read the manufacturer’s installation guide, often available on the company’s Internet site.
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