If your siding is worn out and if you need to repaint it regularly, it may be time to replace it. A new coat of paint will make your home look fresh and attractive and it can increase its value if you decide to sell it in the future.
Measure the damaged section and cut a piece of replacement vinyl to fit the gap. Apply caulk around the edges and slide the patch into place, pushing up until the bottom lip locks into the panel above.
1. Remove the Old Siding
When it comes to siding repair, a professional will take the old pieces off and haul them away. They will also dispose of the debris, as well as clean up any paint or wood powder that may have fallen from the old siding.
If a single piece of siding is damaged, the contractor can replace that section rather than taking off the entire wall siding replacement. They will need a ladder to access the damaged area, but can usually work around it without disturbing adjacent boards.
If the damage is widespread, it may make more sense to replace the whole wall. Look for signs that a complete replacement is needed, such as rot or mold and mildew in several areas. Also, warped boards are an indication of serious problems and should be replaced immediately.
2. Install the New Siding
Once the old siding has been removed and the area cleared, it is time to start the installation process. This will include adding building paper or housewrap, sheathing the first foot of wall and installing trim around windows, doors and power outlets.
Your hired professional will then nail down the new trim boards and sheath, and begin the siding installation. They will use a chalk line to mark where the first wall will go and carefully measure each trim and siding piece.
During this time it is important to examine the new and existing siding for any issues that may need attention. Look for any rot or insect intrusion, warping, cracking or other signs of serious damage. These issues need to be addressed before proceeding with the siding installation as any problems can ruin the overall appearance of your home and lead to expensive repairs down the road. Insect infestations are not something to ignore, as they can cause irreparable damage that will require a full replacement of your home’s exterior.
3. Apply a Coat of Paint
A fresh coat of paint can make your home look better than new. It can also improve the value of your property and boost curb appeal.
Before you begin painting, thoroughly clean the siding with a pressure washer to remove dirt, mildew, mold, and other debris. If possible, use a soft washing solution instead of a standard power washer to avoid damaging the surface.
If you are unable to replace the damaged piece of siding, be sure to cover it with a matching sheet of plywood. It’s important that you paint the wood correctly so it doesn’t absorb moisture, which can lead to rot and other problems.
Before applying the first coat of paint, load a caulking gun with waterproof caulk and fill any gaps or cracks larger than a quarter inch. Allow the caulk to dry, then sand it smooth and apply the siding’s appropriate color. Don’t be tempted to skip the primer – it helps the paint adhere and last longer.
4. Seal the Joints
If any gaps are left between the old and new siding, they should be caulked to prevent rain water from seeping into them and causing wood damage. Caulking is a fairly easy job for anyone who has some basic DIY skills. Before caulking, wipe down the area to remove any dust or dirt and clean out any crevices that may have mud or insect droppings.
Cracks and splits in the sheathing of your siding are signs that it’s time for replacement. In addition to being unsightly, they also let in moisture that can lead to rot and more serious problems.
If you’re unsure how thick your sheathing is, try poking a nail into a vertical seam between two adjacent sheathing pieces. If it goes in easily, you have a stud behind the sheathing. Use a water-based tile caulk in a color that matches your siding. Choose the unsanded variety, rather than a sanded one, because sand can cause the caulk to pull up with repeated use.