Steps to Install Vinyl Siding Over Wood Siding

Home Improvement

One of the latest trends in home renovation is replacing wood siding with vinyl siding. Vinyl siding is a popular choice because it requires no upkeep and is resistant to rot, UV rays, and insects [source: Feirer]. A benefit of installing vinyl over wood siding is that you can use the existing surface to hammer the nails. This project requires precision and patience. If you’re up for the challenge, follow the steps below to learn how to install vinyl siding over wood siding.

1. Calculate the amount of vinyl siding you need to order. Online siding calculators can help you account for your house dimensions, windows, and doors. Use a measuring tape to measure the dimensions and double-check for accuracy.
2. Take the measurements to the hardware store and order your preferred vinyl siding.
3. Begin with the side of the house with the fewest doors and windows. Use chalk to mark intervals around the house for the vinyl panels. Keep in mind that vinyl siding expands and contracts, so you can’t nail it down tightly. The trims and siding need to hang loosely on nails to allow for expansion. Leave an extra ¼ inch (.6 centimeters) on each side of the panels for expansion purposes.
4. Install the starter strip, which is the bottom strip that runs around the house. Make sure the starter strip is level, or the rest of the siding won’t be straight.
5. Trim the doors and windows with J-channel siding to create sharp, even corners. Start with the bottom of the window, then do the sides and top. For doors, start with the sides, then do the top.
6. Install the panels, starting from the starter strip and working upward. Overlap the panels by about an inch (2.5 centimeters). Be careful around the door and window sidings installed above. Throughout the installation, step back and check that the panels are level to keep the house insulated [source: Carter].

FAQ

1. What is vinyl siding?

Vinyl siding is a type of exterior cladding material that can be used to cover and protect the exterior walls of a building. It is made from PVC (polyvinyl chloride) resin, which makes it durable, weather-resistant, and low-maintenance.

2. Can you install vinyl siding over wood siding?

Yes, you can install vinyl siding over wood siding. However, there are some important considerations to keep in mind, such as the condition of the existing wood siding, the type of vinyl siding you choose, and the installation method.

3. What are the advantages of installing vinyl siding over wood siding?

There are several advantages of installing vinyl siding over wood siding, including improved energy efficiency, lower maintenance costs, and increased durability and resistance to weather and pests.

4. What tools and materials do you need to install vinyl siding over wood siding?

You will need a variety of tools and materials to install vinyl siding over wood siding, including a utility knife, tin snips, a saw, a level, a hammer, nails, a chalk line, J-channel, and vinyl siding panels.

5. What are the steps involved in installing vinyl siding over wood siding?

The steps involved in installing vinyl siding over wood siding include preparing the surface, installing the J-channel, hanging the vinyl siding panels, and finishing the installation with trim pieces and accessories.

6. How do you prepare the surface for vinyl siding installation?

To prepare the surface for vinyl siding installation, you need to clean the existing wood siding, repair any damage or rot, and ensure that the surface is smooth and level. You may also need to install a moisture barrier or insulation.

7. How do you hang vinyl siding panels?

To hang vinyl siding panels, you start at the bottom of the wall and work your way up, overlapping each panel slightly and securing it with nails. You also need to leave a small gap between each panel for expansion and contraction.

8. How do you finish the installation with trim pieces and accessories?

To finish the installation with trim pieces and accessories, you need to install J-channel around windows and doors, corner posts at the corners of the walls, and other accessories like soffit and fascia.

9. Can you install vinyl siding over other types of siding?

Yes, you can install vinyl siding over other types of siding, including aluminum and stucco. However, the process may be more complicated and require additional preparation and installation steps.