
How to Snap Siding Back Together
- 1. Insert the hook of a vinyl siding removal tool into the buttlock of a panel you want to snap back in place. ...
- 2. Slide the tool to within 6 inches of the end of the panel and pull the handle toward you, forcing the buttlock open. ...
- 3. Keep the tool hooked into the panel while you slide it incrementally toward the other end. ...
How do you attach vinyl siding to a wall?
Slide the bottom row of panels into place, making sure to hook the bottom lip of each panel under the starting strip. Secure the panels with a nail every 16 inches (40.6 cm) or so -- remembering to center the nail in slot and leave 1/16 of the nail head above the vinyl siding, to allow for movement and expansion. Overlap adjoining panels.
How do you cut vinyl siding to size?
Siding panels should be nailed 12 inches to 16 inches on-center. Start cutting with your tin snips at the top interlock and continue toward the bottom of the panel. Score the panel with a utility knife and then bend the vinyl back and forth until it snaps cleanly on the scored line.
Can You nail into vinyl siding?
Nailing directly into vinyl siding panels will restrict horizontal movement and cause the panels to buckle. Pulling the panel taut stretches the panel out of shape and causes an undesirable lap joint. Panels should be pushed up from the bottom until full lock contact is made and then you can nail them into place.
How do you fix gaps in vinyl siding?
The siding slides behind vinyl siding trim pieces that hide the gap and the cut end. Lock the panel into the one below it, then gently snug it up before nailing. Marking the position of each piece before you remove it (Photo 2) will help you reposition the siding without stretching it.

How do you join vinyl siding?
4:3529:45How to install Vinyl Siding - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipRemember drive nails straight and level and never nail tight. Leave a gap of approximately. 1/32 ofMoreRemember drive nails straight and level and never nail tight. Leave a gap of approximately. 1/32 of an inch about the thickness of a dime between the fastener head and the corner post.
How do you fix separating siding?
0:204:24How To Fix Loose Vinyl Siding (Phillips Vision: Episode - 53)YouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipRight here and here you to pull it just like that just pull it just enough there to cover over thatMoreRight here and here you to pull it just like that just pull it just enough there to cover over that clip. And then when you push it in it'll lock right on.
How do you fix separated vinyl siding?
1:054:13Loose Vinyl Siding Repair - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipSo I'm gonna throw the GoPro on my head so you guys get a close-up view of what I'm doing and andMoreSo I'm gonna throw the GoPro on my head so you guys get a close-up view of what I'm doing and and hopefully I show you guys how to fix it. Okay hopefully you can guys still hear me here you see the
What kind of fastener is used for vinyl siding?
Fastener Choices Use aluminum, galvanized steel, or other corrosion-resistant nails, staples, or screws when installing vinyl siding. Aluminum trim pieces require aluminum or stainless steel fasteners.
How does vinyl siding lock together?
0:042:27How to Install Vinyl Siding - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipNow vinyl siding will secure to your side of your house using nails and what we use we use a nailMoreNow vinyl siding will secure to your side of your house using nails and what we use we use a nail that has a wide end or nails that have a plastic cap now.
Why is siding separating?
If the seams in between the siding boards are pulling apart, then the siding may need to be replaced. This often occurs with improperly installed siding, foundation settling or siding that has aged over time.
Can you glue vinyl siding seams?
Glue and specialized adhesives can be used when repairing vinyl siding but at no point should glue be your go-to solution.
How do you hide siding seams?
0:111:09How to Caulk Seams of Siding on a Home - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipFirst i'm going to start with my seams i just put a bit of caulking on that seam and then i'm goingMoreFirst i'm going to start with my seams i just put a bit of caulking on that seam and then i'm going to come back with my finger. And smooth that in.
Can you glue loose vinyl siding?
Once you locate all areas of looseness, begin snapping the loose edge back into place against the locking ridge. You could place a small bead of silicone caulk along the groove to help the connection stick together. If you do this, be careful to wipe off excess caulk so that it is not visible.
Is it better to nail or screw vinyl siding?
0:170:53Tip of the Week: Selecting a Fastener When Installing Vinyl SidingYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipUse a galvanized nail stainless steel nail or aluminum nail just something that won't rust roofingMoreUse a galvanized nail stainless steel nail or aluminum nail just something that won't rust roofing nails with a three-eighths inch diameter head work well for vinyl siding.
What kind of nail gun do you use for vinyl siding?
What Kind of Nail Gun Do You Use for Siding? While you can use roofing nail guns for siding, it is ideal to use a pneumatic siding nail gun to secure vinyl, wood, and cement siding. You should set the pressure of the nail gun to the density of the material you are using. We do not recommend using a brad gun.
How tight do you nail vinyl siding?
Do not nail any siding parts too tight. Leave 1/32 inch between the nail head and the vinyl. Vinyl siding must be attached “loosely.” Center nails in slots to permit expansion and contraction of the siding.
How do you put snap siding back in place?
5:126:20How to Replace Damaged Vinyl Siding | Ask This Old HouseYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipAnd pull down and when i pull down i bend it away enough so when i push on it it'll snap into placeMoreAnd pull down and when i pull down i bend it away enough so when i push on it it'll snap into place take it down here i'm going to pull. Down. Push my siding and slide it as i. Go.
Can you glue loose vinyl siding?
Once you locate all areas of looseness, begin snapping the loose edge back into place against the locking ridge. You could place a small bead of silicone caulk along the groove to help the connection stick together. If you do this, be careful to wipe off excess caulk so that it is not visible.
Can you replace individual pieces of vinyl siding?
If a falling branch or a well-hit baseball cracked a piece of your siding, don't fret — you can make it as good as new in about 15 minutes with a zip tool and a replacement piece. It's as simple as unzipping the damaged piece and snapping in a new one.
Can you glue vinyl siding seams?
Glue and specialized adhesives can be used when repairing vinyl siding but at no point should glue be your go-to solution.
How long is vinyl siding?
Vinyl siding usually comes in 12-foot (3.66-meter) lengths. Therefore, you will need to cut these long pieces of siding to fit the measurements of your soffit. Keep in mind that the soffit pieces should measure 1/4 inch (6.35 mm) shorter than the actual length of the soffit.
Why do you need to install vinyl siding?
Installing vinyl siding can help to reduce the amount of maintenance you have to do to the outside of your house. If you decide to install vinyl siding yourself (without the help of a contractor), it's important to be as prepared as possible and to have a clear idea of what the installation process involves.
Why is it important to allow extra room for expansion when installing vinyl siding?
When installing vinyl siding, there are a number of important rules to follow with regards to fitting and nailing. Vinyl siding expands and contracts with temperature changes, therefore it is important to allow extra room for expansion in order to prevent the siding from buckling.
What are the problems with vinyl siding?
One of the major issues with vinyl siding is that it masks moisture problems and other structural defects.
What to do if soffit wraps around a corner?
Understand how to deal with wrap-around soffit. If the soffit on your house wraps around a corner, you will need to make provisions for the change of direction.
Is vinyl siding good for a house?
Think about why you want to install vinyl siding. Vinyl siding is a good option for homeowners who like the look of siding , but don't want the expense that accompanies cedar and concrete composite products. It is also a favorite for homeowners who don't want the hassle of repainting the outside of their house periodically.
Does vinyl siding buckle?
Even the highest quality siding will buckle and warp if not installed correctly.
Vinyl Siding Installation Tips
Vinyl comes in a variety of grains, thicknesses and colors, making it a practical choice for many homeowners. We'll give you tips on preparing your home, cutting vinyl siding and installing the siding panels.
Vinyl Siding Cutting Methods
Start cutting with your tin snips at the top interlock and continue toward the bottom of the panel.
Surface Preparation for Vinyl Siding Installation
Securely nail all loose boards and wood trim and replace any rotten boards.
Use Exterior Siding Furring
In new construction, furring strips aren't usually necessary. However, older homes often have uneven walls. These walls should be furred out to prevent a wavy appearance in the finished vinyl siding job.
Insulation for Vinyl Siding
House wrap or foam board insulation helps insulate and level out the exterior of a house. Some manufacturers strongly caution against the use of drop-in type foam or fiberboard behind their vinyl siding. This type of insulation may change and flatten the contour of the panel, causing the siding to bulge or ripple.
Vinyl Soffit and Fascia Installation Guide
Use the following instructions for vinyl soffit and fascia installation.
How big should vinyl siding be?
Remember that as temperatures change, vinyl siding can expand and contract 1/2” (12.7mm) or more over a 12’6″ (3.81m) length. Heads should be 5/16″ (7.9mm) minimum in diameter. Shank should be 1/8″ (3.2mm) in diameter. 1 ½” (38.1mm) for general use.
Where to start fastening siding?
Start fastening in the center of the panel and work toward the ends. Center the fasteners in the slots to allow for expansion and contraction. (Start fastening vertical siding and corner posts in the top of the uppermost slots to hold them in position. Place all other fasteners in the center of the slots.)
How much clearance between fastener and siding?
Do not drive the head of the fastener tightly against the siding nail hem; instead leave a minimum of approximately 1/32″ (0.8mm) clearance (the thickness of a dime) between the fastener head and the vinyl siding to prevent panel buckling as temperatures change.
What size screws should I use for a wall panel?
Can be used if the screws do not restrict the normal expansion and contraction movement of the panel on the wall. Screws should be size #8, truss head or pan head, corrosion-resistant, self-tapping sheet metal screws. Staples. Not less than 16-gauge semi-flattened to an elliptical cross-section.
When using tin snips to cut siding, should you avoid closing the blades completely?
When using tin snips to cut siding, avoid closing the blades completely at the end of a stroke.
Can you cut vinyl siding with a circular saw?
With a circular saw, install the fine-toothed (plywood) blade backwards on the saw and cut slowly, especially in cold weather. SAFETY WARNING: DO NOT TRY TO CUT MATERIALS OTHER THAN VINYL SIDING WITH A REVERSED DIRECTION SAW BLADE.
Can you staple through siding?
Do not face nail or staple through siding except for one nail needed to finish at the top of a gable.
Can you use galvanized nails on vinyl siding?
Use 2-in. galvanized roofing nails for your vinyl siding unless the sheathing has foam on it. Then you'll want longer ones. Don't drive the nails tight : Each panel should be able to move back and forth or the siding will bubble on really hot days. Hit every stud: Expansion and contraction of the siding will loosen nails that are fastened only to the sheathing.
Can you cut vinyl siding with a circular saw?
Pushing through vinyl siding with a wood blade in your circular saw will cause the siding to shatter, which is both frustrating and dangerous. Buy a blade made to cut vinyl siding. They're cheap and available at any home center. If you're using a sliding miter saw, and the siding is still chipping, try slowly pulling the saw backward through the siding. Buy one of these incredible vinyl siding blades from Irwin to make this job easier.
How to prevent thin vinyl siding from buckling?
To prevent the relatively thin panels from buckling, observe these fitting and nailing rules. Leave a 1/4-in. gap at all ends. The siding slides behind vinyl siding trim pieces that hide the gap and the cut end. Lock the panel into the one below it, then gently snug it up before nailing.
How to notch siding on window?
Position the siding to be notched below the window. Mark it on each side of the window, allowing an extra 1/4-in. gap on each side for expansion. Measure from the locking tab of the siding below to the undersill trim to determine the depth of the notch.
How to secure a window with a roof?
Slit the building paper about 2 in. above the window and slide 5-in. wide flashing behind it. Lap it over the side flashing and window nailing fin. Drive roofing nails at each corner to secure it.
What is the best way to flash a window?
Flashing is critical for a watertight window or door. Aluminum works best with vinyl. Buy a 10-in.wide roll of aluminum (at home centers), and cut it into 5-in.wide strips for the top and sides of the window. The width of the bottom flashing will vary. It must go under the window nailing fin and lap over the nailing hem of the vinyl siding (Photo 3). This will direct water to the front of the siding.
How to snap off a notch in a sleeve?
Cut through the nailing hem with shears, then score deeply along the rip line with a utility knife. Bend back the piece to snap off the notch.
How thick is a drive nail?
Drive nails so that the exposed shank equals the thickness of two layers of siding (1/16 in. to 1/8 in.). Don’t drive nails all the way in.
How to snap off a tab?
Make the last two cuts with snips. Bend the tab back and forth to snap it off (see Photo 8).
Directions for How to Install the Top Piece of Vinyl Siding
Snap your second-to-last row of vinyl siding securely against the section below it.
Get Help From Siding Repair & Installation Professionals
Although you now understand how to install the top piece of vinyl siding, you might prefer help with the job. Time constraints can make it hard for you to complete this essential repair. Perhaps you have reservations about installing vinyl siding on a two-story house. Maybe you don’t have a good extension ladder that is tall enough.
