Replacing siding on a house is an ambitious and transformative task that can enhance its appearance, add value to it, and protect its structure against weather damage. Knowing how to replace siding on a house will save time and money in terms of labor costs; this guide will take you from initial planning through final installation of all the new panels.
Whatever your challenge, replacing all or just part of the siding on your home, or just fixing small sections, this step-by-step guide aims to equip you with all of the knowledge and confidence to complete it successfully. Although undertaking such an endeavor can be intimidating and time-consuming, any homeowner can tackle this project successfully with adequate preparation and knowledge.
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Why and When to Replace Your Siding
Your home’s siding is its first line of defense against the elements. Over time, it can crack, rot, or become damaged by wind and hail. Ignoring these issues can lead to more serious problems like mold growth, wood rot in your home’s framing, and increased energy bills.
Look for these signs that it might be time to start a siding replacement project:
- Cracks, warping, or rotting: These are clear indicators of wear and tear.
- Bubbling or blistering: This often means moisture is trapped underneath the siding.
- Visible holes or missing pieces: Pests can use these openings to get inside your home.
- Increased energy bills: Damaged siding can compromise your home’s insulation and energy efficiency.
Choosing the Right Siding: A Key Decision
Before you begin, you need to choose the right material. This decision impacts not only the look of your home but also the cost, durability, and required maintenance.
- Vinyl Siding: Made from PVC plastic, vinyl is the most popular choice for its affordability and low maintenance. It comes in a wide variety of colors and requires no painting. However, it can crack in cold weather and is sensitive to extreme UV light over time.
- Wood Siding: Wood offers a classic, natural look. It is highly customizable as it can be painted or stained, but it requires regular maintenance (every 3-5 years) to prevent rot and insect damage. Wood siding can last for decades with proper care.
- Fiber Cement Siding: A mix of cement, sand, and cellulose fibers, this material is extremely durable and fire-resistant. It stands up well to harsh climates and can be made to mimic the look of wood. Fiber cement siding is a significant investment to install but can last up to 50 years with minimal upkeep.
- Plywood Siding: Often used on older homes, plywood siding is a durable and budget-friendly option. It is easy to work with but can be prone to water damage, especially at the bottom edges.
Planning Your Siding Replacement Project
Proper planning is the most important step to a successful job. Don’t skip this part.
1. Budgeting and Costs
The cost of siding a house varies greatly depending on the material, labor, and location. Vinyl is the most affordable, followed by wood, and then fiber cement. A full-home siding installation cost can range from a few thousand to over $20,000. It is wise to have a 10-20% contingency fund for unexpected repairs you might find underneath the old siding.
2. Tools and Materials
Gathering all your supplies beforehand will save you time and frustration.
- Safety Gear: Goggles, work gloves, and a dust mask.
- Removal Tools: Pry bar, hammer, and a utility knife.
- Cutting Tools: Circular saw, miter saw, or tin snips (for vinyl).
- Measurement Tools: Tape measure, level.
- Fasteners: A nail gun or cordless drill, plus the correct nails or screws for your siding type.
- Additional Materials: Weather-resistant barrier (house wrap), flashing tape, caulk, starter strips, and trim pieces.
3. Safety First
Safety is critical. Working on a ladder or scaffolding can be dangerous. Always wear your safety gear. If you are dealing with an older home, be aware of potential hazards like lead paint or asbestos and take proper precautions or hire a professional for removal.
How to Replace Vinyl Siding | Step-by-Step Siding Replacement Process
This general process applies to most types of siding. We will go into material-specific tips in the next section.
Step 1: Removing Old Siding
To safely take down old siding, start at the top and work downward, starting from where debris might otherwise fall and damage adjacent panels. Using your pry bar, gently pull the panels away from the walls while collecting all nails or screws that might fall onto them or cause injuries later.
Step Two: Surface Inspection and Prep
Now that the old siding has been stripped off, it is easier to inspect both the sheathing and framing of your house for signs of rot, mold, or damage, and repair immediately if any are discovered. Taking this opportunity is key to detecting hidden problems before they worsen further.
Step 3: Install Weather Barrier and Flashing
The installation of weather-resistant barriers (also called house wrap) or weather-proofing materials is a crucial component to keeping moisture at bay in your home and air leaks. Once in place, apply flashing tape around all windows and doors as soon as the house wrap is installed to cover gaps between seams, providing additional moisture resistance and ensuring its efficacy in protecting against air and moisture leakage.
Finally, ensure flashing tape has been applied around windows or doors that need sealing for best performance by applying flashing tape around windows/doors before proceeding further with new siding materials installation! This critical step ensures maximum effectiveness with any new siding material or upgrade, in terms of insulation performance and energy conservation.
Step 4: Installation of New Siding
This is the main event. No matter the material, start the siding installation from the bottom and work your way up.
- Attach the starter strip to the bottom of the wall. This is what the first row of siding will rest on.
- Measure each new piece of siding and cut it to size.
- Follow the specific nailing guidelines for your material (more on this below).
- Continue working your way up, locking each new panel into place with the one below it.
- Use a level to check that each row is perfectly straight.
Material-Specific Installation Tips
Each siding material has unique characteristics you must consider during installation.
How to Replace Vinyl Siding
- Nailing: Do not nail vinyl siding too tightly. The nails should be centered in the nailing slot, allowing the siding to expand and contract with temperature changes.
- Overlap: When you join two pieces, the manufacturer’s instructions will specify how much of an overlap is needed. Overlapping by about an inch is common.
- Using a Zip Tool: This specialty tool makes it easy to lock and unlock vinyl panels.
How to Replace Plywood Siding
- Preserve a Template: Try to keep the old, damaged plywood panel to use as a template for your new cuts.
- Cutting: Use a circular saw to cut the new panel to the correct length. A jigsaw can be used for cutting out vents or outlets.
- Sealing: Once the new panel is in place, caulk all edges and joints to prevent water from getting in.
How to Replace Wood Lap Siding
- Hidden Nails: Use an oscillating multi-tool to cut the hidden nails without damaging the boards.
- Secure Nailing: Make sure your nails go into the wall studs for a secure fit.
- Finishing: After installation, prime and paint the new siding. Applying at least two coats of quality paint will protect the wood and make it last.
How to Replace Fiber Cement Siding
- Dust Control: Wear a dust mask and eye protection when cutting, as fiber cement dust can be harmful.
- Cutting: Use a fiber cement shear or a diamond-tipped blade on a circular saw.
- Blind Nailing: This type of siding is often “blind nailed,” meaning the nails are hidden by the next overlapping piece.
Common Siding Issues and Troubleshooting
Even with the best planning, you might encounter issues.
- Finding Rot or Mold: If you uncover rot, you must remove all the damaged sheathing or wood and replace it before installing new siding.
- Uneven Walls: If your walls are not perfectly straight, use furring strips to create a flat surface for your new siding.
- Working Around Windows and Doors: Take your time. Proper flashing and careful cutting are essential to create a waterproof seal.
When you are finished, be sure to clean up all debris. A full siding replacement on a house is a huge task, and the final cleanup is just as important.
Need Help with Your Siding Project?
While a DIY approach is rewarding, some projects are best left to professionals. A complete replacement house siding job can be complex and time-consuming. If you’re looking for expert assistance with your project, professional Handyman San Diego Services can provide the help you need.
San Diego Home Remodeling is a trusted provider of home remodeling in San Diego CA. Our team has the experience and expertise to handle any siding project, big or small, ensuring a flawless result that protects your home and boosts its value for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions About Siding Replacement
How long does vinyl siding typically last?
High-grade vinyl siding typically lasts 20-40 years, depending on its material quality and exposure to environmental elements such as climate.
What Is the Average Cost to Replace Siding?
Siding replacement costs vary widely, and installation can range from several thousand dollars to several tens of thousands, with vinyl being more budget-friendly and fiber cement being more costly.
Can I replace only part of my siding?
Yes, in many instances you can. If only an area of damage needs attention, partial siding replacement could be an economical solution – though beware any difficulties encountered while matching colors if your existing siding is aged or antique.
Does It Require a Special Permit To Install Siding On Houses?
Yes, changing siding on a house requires effortful, labor-intensive steps that need close consideration of each step taken; however, with proper tools and planning, you can accomplish the project on your own.
Why would replacing wood siding with vinyl reduce maintenance burden?
Vinyl doesn’t require painting or staining, and it doesn’t need to be treated against pests either – saving both time and money in the long run.
Why does my new vinyl siding have gaps?
Gaps between panels of siding are designed to allow it to expand and contract as temperatures shift, helping the material adapt over time. Nailing too tightly without leaving enough gap space may cause it to buckle or warp over time, leading to buckled surfaces or warped panels that buckle over time.
