subject: Vinyl Siding Installation Tips [print this page] Vinyl siding installation and vinyl siding repair are two extremely popular do it yourself tasks that homeowners like to tackle. Before you dive head first into this detailed yet simple home improvement project, be sure to consider the following tips to ensure that you can be proud of a job well done in the end.
Tip One: Use the proper tools
Make sure that you have the right siding installation and siding repair tools clean and ready to be used. These include a level, chalkline, tape measure, utility knife, framing square, sawing table, caulk with gun, tin snips, nail slot and snaplock punch, and a ladder.
Tip Two: Prepare the surface properly before you begin
Siding needs to be installed on top of a very smooth and solid surface. You will need to patch up any holes or cracks and smooth out rough or uneven areas with caulk before you begin the main installation.
Tip Three: Take the opportunity to insulate
You can put in foam sheathing (foil faced) to improve the insulation of heating and cooling within your home. You may also want to put in an air and water infiltration barrier. This extra effort can save you hundreds of dollars or more over the years, so it is definitely worth the time.
Tip Four: Put in the starter strip right
You need to install an aluminum starter strip, at the bottom, and make sure that it is level and parallel to the ground. All of the pieces that you install after the starter will follow the exact same line, so spend time measuring and making sure that vital first strip is nice and straight.
