Video guides:
The Vinyl Siding Institute has produced a series of instructional videos that will guide you through every step of the installation process in detail. With these videos as a reference, you should have no problems installing your siding!
Part 1 - Getting Started
Part 2 - Horizontal Siding Installation
Part 3 - Vertical Siding Installation
Part 4 - Soffit Installation
Part 5 - Other Recommendations
Part 6 - Accessories – Inside/Outside Corners
Part 7 - Accessories - Starter Strip
Part 8 - Accessories - Windows, Doors, Roof Liners
Part 9 - Disclaimer
Tips and pointers
While the videos above will more than adequately explain the installation process, here are a few things to keep in mind as you go:
Always keep it straight and level:
Check, check, and recheck your lines as you install your siding. There is nothing worse than getting half way through a job and realizing everything is on a slight downward angle. This really is one of those cases where an ounce of prevention is better than a pound of cure. Throughout the installation, check the horizontal alignment of the panels every few rows, and be sure to pay extra attention to corner posts, doors, and windows.
Of course, your vinyl siding can only be as straight and level as the material underneath of it. If you're re-siding over existing material, you'll need to make sure it is level before you begin. Nail down any protrusions resulting from cracks or warping. Remove any rotted wood or compromised materials. Generally, it is recommended that you lay down a layer of foam backer board to level the surface before you start.
Remove any obstacles before you start:
Before you begin, remove anything that will get in the way. Lighting fixtures, gutters, or any other protrusions. Doing this before you begin will give you maximum flexibility and ensure that you don't hit any snags along the way.
Remember to leave room for expansion:
When securing your vinyl panels, it may feel natural to really drive the nails down and hammer them tightly to the wall. However, this can cause issues down the road. Vinyl siding naturally expands and contracts during different weather conditions. For the panels to be properly installed, you should always hammer into the exact centre of the nailing slot (never to one side or the other) and always leave a small gap between the nail and the vinyl (the width of a dime is ideal).
Use a zip tool to fix any mistakes:
If you make a mistake, don't panic. You can easily and safely remove a piece of siding that is already nailed down. Slide the zip tool under the edge of the siding, hook the locking edge, and pull down. Move the tool across the length of the piece to free it. Lifting the siding will reveal the nailing hem of the piece below it. No sweat!
