How to Install Exterior Siding

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Installing exterior siding may be the most effective way to increase the value and restore the beauty of your house. The process is not as complicated as it seems, and doing it yourself will save a lot of money for the cost of installation. Here are some steps to guide you as you learn how to install exterior siding.

Steps

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    If you use more than one piece to complete a corner, be sure that there is an overlap of 1 inch (2.54cm).
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    Place the footer, which is the piece of trim that is at the bottom of each exterior wall, as starter strip of siding will slide into this.
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    The top sheets of siding will slide under this piece.
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    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.
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    Be sure to overlap successive panels by 1 inch (2.54cm).
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    Use gutter-seal adhesive to finish the installation at window sills and eaves.
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    Lock it into place at the top of the preceding panel, and slide it under the F-channel.
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    Hang this panel by placing a nail at the top of each nail strip, at about 8 inch (20.32cm) increments.
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    Moving from the center out, interlock each strip with the previous one, continuing to place the nails at 8 inch (20.32cm) increments.
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    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.
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    The primary difference between this application and the others, is that the vertical corner boards will be installed last.
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    Add metal flashing to control water flow.
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    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.
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    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.
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    Complete installation adding the vertical boards at the corners, so that they are flush with the horizontal boards, but always allow at least 1/8 inch (0.3175cm) for expansion.
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  • Question
    Is a siding gun worth it?
    Ryaan Tuttle
    Home Improvement Specialist
    Ryaan Tuttle is a Home Improvement Specialist and the CEO of Best Handyman, Inc. in Boston, Massachusetts. With over 17 years of experience, he specializes in building home service businesses, focusing on creating scalable and efficient brands. With the help of his global team, the companies have achieved over 10+ million in sales and received recognition through magazine features, and enjoy partnerships with wikiHow and Jobber field service software. Boston Magazine and LocalBest.com have named Best Handyman Boston the Best Handyman in Boston. Ryaan holds Construction Supervisor and Home Improvement Contractor Licenses.
    Ryaan Tuttle
    Home Improvement Specialist
    Expert Answer
    A siding gun is definitely worth it, especially if you buy a cordless one. You just plug it into the compressor, which will set the depth of the nails.
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      Tips

      • Always use stainless steel roofing nails for wood siding and aluminum nails for aluminum siding. Never drive the nails in tight.
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      • When overlapping successive panels, stagger the seams in order to control water flow and avoid leaks.
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      References

      1. ↑ Ryaan Tuttle. Home Improvement Specialist. Expert Interview. 30 July 2021.
      2. ↑ Ryaan Tuttle. Home Improvement Specialist. Expert Interview. 30 July 2021.
      3. ↑ Ryaan Tuttle. Home Improvement Specialist. Expert Interview. 30 July 2021.
      4. http://www.hometips.com/diy-how-to/siding-vinyl-aluminum-installation.html
      5. http://www.askthebuilder.com/589_Installing_Wood_Siding.shtml

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