Siding | Benefits | Installation

Installing Home Siding

Re-siding a home is among the top ten remodeling projects that can be done in terms of overall payback. Re-siding is an excellent investment, as homeowners often recoup 75–100% of their total costs. Here are a few tips to keep in mind when installing siding:

  • Check on your local building codes and obtain the necessary permits.
  • Take a blueprint or accurate measurements of the house to Holmes Lumber for a FREE estimate.
  • Ask a sales associate at Holmes Lumber to help figure out how to work around details such as windows and door caps, sills, corners, etc.
  • This is a good time to think about replacing your windows and doors as well.
  • This is also an ideal time to add decorative or functional touches such as exterior lights, doorbell buttons, new outdoor faucets, and dryer vents.

Nailing Your Siding  

  • Vinyl siding must be attached loosely because it expands and contracts as much as 1/4" over a 12' 6" length with temperature changes.
  • Do not face-nail siding. Face-nailing is not only an eyesore but will cause vinyl to buckle with changes in temperature.
  • Do not nail siding too tightly. Leave 1/32" between the nail head and vinyl.
  • Center nails in slots to permit expansion and contraction of siding.
  • Drive nails straight and level to prevent distortion and buckling of the panel.
  • Start nailing vertical siding and trim pieces in the top of the uppermost slots to hold them in position. Place all other nails in the center of the slots.
  • Space nails a maximum of 16" apart for horizontal siding panels, every 12" for vertical siding panels, and every 6" to 12" for accessories.
  • Make sure panels are locked at the bottom. Do not pull them tight when nailing.

 

Horizontal Siding

  • Place the first panel in the starter strip and securely lock.
  • Fasten panels per nailing tips above.
  • Check the course to ensure proper alignment with windows, eaves, and adjacent walls.
  • Allowances should be made for expansion and contractions by leaving about 1/4" at all corner posts and channels.
  • Always overlap joints away from entrances to improve the overall appearance of the installation.
  • Lap end joints per manufacturer's recommendations so that the vinyl panels can move freely in a side-to-side direction.
  • Stagger end laps so that one is not directly above the other unless separated by three courses.