9 Simple Vinyl Siding Installation Tips

If you are worried about the protection of your home and want to stop water from entering your home, then getting your hands on siding is a wonderful choice. The vinyl sidings not only look amazing but they protect it from harsh weather as well. The installation isn’t that difficult if you have some practical knowledge and know how to use the tools. You might want to finalize your plans and start doing it because summer is just perfect for this kind of work. If you are unsure about your skills, then hiring  Houston siding  contractors isn’t a bad option. Otherwise, you can use the following installation tips.

1: Use the wide starter strip and cap the corner posts

The bottom must be strengthened up so it can hold that’s why the bottom starter strip must be 1 inch at least. Make sure to install the bottom siding as low as possible to protect the sheathing. The insects love to make their homes in the corner posts that’s why make sure you cap them before installation.

2: Pull up for optimal fitting and then nail it

The installation technique must be flawless and for that hiring the best vinyl siding installation service in Houston TX is a very good option. Most of the vinyl installation failures are related to the fitting issues and that’s why you must apply an upward pressure on the panel and then nail it for optimal fitting.

3: Flash the bottoms of windows

The first step to prevent the water from entering the window is to install the flashing at the bottom corners of the window. Remember this must be done before installing the J-channels. The best way to do it is to cut the felt paper and install it over the overlapping siding.

4: Install the top j-channels

The biggest challenge while you installing the sidings is to prevent rainwater from entering the J-channel that is installed on the window. Don’t worry though there’s a way to deal with that as well. All you need is to create a flap in the top J-channel that overlaps the side channels and voila!

5: Start with the longer panels

The experts always suggest starting from the side that requires longer siding panels. The reason for that is the longer panels don’t readily stretch as the smaller panels and that’s why they are not easy to adjust. So, before installing the last pieces on the smaller sides make sure you measure the top of the window correctly to ensure a similar height.

6: Be careful at the overlaps

You must take into account the general contraction and expansion due to the rise and fall in temperature while installing the vinyl siding. One inch is the recommended overlapping length in most cases and but you can refer to the installation guide of the particular siding as well. 

7: Install the kick-out flashing

The kick-out flashing is extremely important to install because it prevents the water from getting on the back of the siding panels. Just leave the flashing loose and side the first panel behind the flashing. After that fix the flashing in the wall with a nail and lap the next piece over it.

8: Crimp and caulk the top course

The sill trim must be installed at the top where the siding meets the soffits. After that, the crimped siding must be used to fix it well. This process is quite efficient and gives a nice finishing touch but, in some cases, adding a few blobs of caulking for extra security isn’t a bad thing.

9: Use a zip tool to enhance the finishing

It is the last finishing touch and after that, you are done with the installation. The purpose is to remove the extra piece of siding that is already nailed to the wall. For that, the zip tool can be used and if you don’t have it, then just get a new one at a local hardware store. 

Vinyl Siding FAQs and Answers:

1: What do you put under siding?

The kick-out flashing is installed under the siding to avoid the rainwater coming down from the roof. It is a time taking procedure and it must be installed precisely for good functionality.

2: How far should you overlap vinyl siding?

The overlapping is an important phenomenon and one inch is the standard overlapping length. Since it depends on the climate as well, that’s why the user guide of a particular siding must be consulted.

3: Is vinyl siding easy to install? 

The vinyl siding installation is a pretty straightforward procedure, but for optimal installation quality and time-saving, it is recommended to hire a professional.

4: How do I prepare my house for vinyl siding?

You can start with removing shutters, downspouts, and fixtures, and afterward, the wall must be prepared. For that, it is recommended to consult a local vinyl siding expert.