How to Install Exterior Siding

Step-by-Step Guide

1. 1

   Step 1: Install horizontal siding

   If you use more than one piece to complete a corner, be sure that there is an overlap of 1 inch (2.54cm).,, The top sheets of siding will slide under this piece., Slide the bottom of the siding into the footer, being sure to allow for expansion.
   
   You should be able to wiggle the siding slightly.
   
   Slide the ends under the corner posts in the same manner.
   
   Affix the siding to the wall by centering a nail in each section of the nail strip.
   
   Don't pound the nails in all the way. , Be sure to overlap successive panels by 1 inch (2.54cm)., Use gutter-seal adhesive to finish the installation at window sills and eaves., Lock it into place at the top of the preceding panel, and slide it under the F-channel.,,, Hang this panel by placing a nail at the top of each nail strip, at about 8 inch (20.32cm) increments., Moving from the center out, interlock each strip with the previous one, continuing to place the nails at 8 inch (20.32cm) increments., Shim the J-channel at about 5/16 inch (0.794cm) to keep the post on the same plane as the other strips.
   
   The edges will insert between the J-channel and the outer flange of the post.,, The primary difference between this application and the others, is that the vertical corner boards will be installed last., Add metal flashing to control water flow., Make sure that each plank is cut square to avoid any gaps.
   
   Be sure to prime the sheets of siding on both sides and at the edges.
   
   Also, be sure to prime any exposed ends when panels are trimmed., Install the successive pieces so that they are nailed through the bottom of the upper board, and into the beveled edge of the lower board.
   
   The uppermost board will be installed so that it abuts the eaves.
   
   Split the board so that the width is shortened, and then cover the exposed edge with frieze board. ,
2. 2

   Step 2: such as aluminum or vinyl by hanging the underlayment and installing the trim.

3. 3

   Step 3: Add the corner posts

4. 4

   Step 4: using two nails in the upper slots to suspend them.

5. 5

   Step 5: Place the footer

6. 6

   Step 6: which is the piece of trim that is at the bottom of each exterior wall

7. 7

   Step 7: as starter strip of siding will slide into this.

8. 8

   Step 8: Apply a strip of F-channel trim at the top of the exterior walls

9. 9

   Step 9: under the eaves.

10. 10

    Step 10: Install your starter sheet.

11. 11

    Step 11: Proceed up the wall

12. 12

    Step 12: interlocking the bottom of each sheet with the top of the previous sheets.

13. 13

    Step 13: Trim the siding panels using a circular saw to meet windows

14. 14

    Step 14: and corners.

15. 15

    Step 15: Install the top panel by trimming the unneeded portion from the top of the sheet.

16. 16

    Step 16: Install vertical siding by first locating the mid-point of the wall.

17. 17

    Step 17: Draw a vertically level line at this position using a straightedge.

18. 18

    Step 18: Center the starter panel on that line and cut the strip 1/8 inch (0.3175cm) short

19. 19

    Step 19: to allow for expansion.

20. 20

    Step 20: Cut the successive strips to rest on the footer

21. 21

    Step 21: always allowing a 1/8 inch (0.3175cm) gap at the top.

22. 22

    Step 22: Install a J-channel on the post when you reach a corner.

23. 23

    Step 23: Add panels around the doors and windows in the same manner as in Step 6.

24. 24

    Step 24: Proceed with the following steps for installing wood siding.

25. 25

    Step 25: Install trim boards to surround windows and doors.

26. 26

    Step 26: Cut the boards to length

27. 27

    Step 27: making sure that the joints meet over a stud.

28. 28

    Step 28: Hang the first piece of siding so that it overlaps the foundation by 1 inch (2.54cm).

29. 29

    Step 29: Complete installation adding the vertical boards at the corners

30. 30

    Step 30: so that they are flush with the horizontal boards

31. 31

    Step 31: but always allow at least 1/8 inch (0.3175cm) for expansion.

Detailed Guide

About the Author