5 Easy Steps to Install Vinyl Siding Starter Strips
- Find the Lowest Point of the Wall. Examine the wall you want to side to find its lowest corner. ...
- Drive a Nail Into the Marked Point. Using a claw hammer, hit a nail into the marked area. ...
- Tie a String Around the Nail. ...
- Measure the Widths of the Corner Posts. ...
- Position the Starter Strip. ...
How to install vinyl siding on a house?
You attach the bottom of the first row of siding to the top of this starter strip. For the remaining vinyl siding panels to be installed correct and level, beginning with the lowest row, you must install the starter strip correctly. Remember to make sure the sheathing is smooth before you apply the siding so the siding can be smooth also.
Where do you start with vinyl siding starter strips?
Vinyl Siding Starter Strips. Snap a level chalk line for the first starter strip at the base of the wall, no less than 8 inches above ground level, after determining the lowest corner of the house. This is where the new siding will begin.
How do you start siding on a house?
Once you've decided where you want the siding to begin, drive a nail through a point on your chosen starting height and snap a chalk line around the perimeter of the house. Nail a piece of plywood about 3.5 inches (89 mm) thick along the top of the chalk line -- this will hold out the bottom of the first row of siding.
How do you cut the last row of siding?
If you have to cut the last row of siding, you'll need to use a length of J-channel on the top edge of the siding (instead of utility trim). You will also need to nail a strip of 1/2-inch (12.7-mm) plywood, 3 inches (76.2 mm) wide to the channel to support it. [9] Install a starter strip. [10]
How do you start the first piece of vinyl siding?
3:5729:45How to install Vinyl Siding - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipThe top and bottom nailing hems. So they're not visible after the siding is installed. Position aMoreThe top and bottom nailing hems. So they're not visible after the siding is installed. Position a nail at the top of the uppermost slot on both sides of the corner post.
Do you start at top or bottom for siding?
Use the Wider Starter Strip The bottom of the starter strip (the part the bottom panel hooks on to) should be at least 1 in. below the top of the foundation, but the lower the vinyl siding is installed, the better. It protects the sheathing from rain, snow and pests.
Where do you start when siding a house?
3:4133:48How To Install Vinyl Siding On Your House - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipSo we've actually had to start with a cut piece of siding for the first row. So we've started with aMoreSo we've actually had to start with a cut piece of siding for the first row. So we've started with a J channel on the bottom which you'll see as we get into the video.
How do you start vinyl siding on a slope?
1:2418:12Steep-Slope Details Installation - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipPoint overlap seams at three inch minimum. And end lap six inch minimum peel half of the backing offMorePoint overlap seams at three inch minimum. And end lap six inch minimum peel half of the backing off the roll and apply firm even pressure from the center to the outer edges.
Do you nail vinyl siding corners tight?
9:0514:21Vinyl Siding Part 1: Corner Trim - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipBecause we have to be able to let the vinyl expand and contract if you nail it tight it's going toMoreBecause we have to be able to let the vinyl expand and contract if you nail it tight it's going to buckle on you and it won't look good over time.
How do you stagger vinyl siding?
Stagger the siding end laps so that no two courses (rows of panels) are aligned vertically, unless separated by at least three courses. Always overlap joints away from entrances and/or away from the point of greatest traffic. This will improve the overall appearance of the installation (Fig. 37).
What is a starter strip for vinyl siding?
The PlyGem Vinyl Starter Strip is a required accessory to start any vinyl siding installation job. Starter Strips are used at the bottom of each wall of the home and must be level. This is done to lock the first course of siding in place.
How much siding can you install in a day?
A two-person crew can install about 40 square feet per hour, or 400 square feet in a 10-hour day.
Can you use J channel instead of a starter strip?
3:334:40Vinyl Siding - J channel Options - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipNow where you have to use it as a starter strip is with vertical siding so eric's going to show thatMoreNow where you have to use it as a starter strip is with vertical siding so eric's going to show that to you we have a piece of board and batten very common.
How do you start vinyl siding on an uneven wall?
0:020:55Creating Even Wall Surface on Vinyl Siding - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipIf the existing siding is irregular with a lot of bows. And bellies you should first even off theMoreIf the existing siding is irregular with a lot of bows. And bellies you should first even off the wall by applying furring strips then nail a rigid substrate to the furring strips.
How do you finish the top row of vinyl siding?
0:021:06VSI Best Practices -- Finishing at the Top of the Wall - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipYou might have to shim the last piece or use a double utility trim to maintain the proper angle forMoreYou might have to shim the last piece or use a double utility trim to maintain the proper angle for the face of the panel. For more information consult via sais vinyl siding installation manual.
How do you find the angle of siding?
0:103:23BEST WAY TO FIND YOUR ANGLE WHEN INSTALLING SIDING!YouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipSo now what we're going to do we're going to take our tape measure. We're going to go in right here.MoreSo now what we're going to do we're going to take our tape measure. We're going to go in right here. And if you can see there i have 30 inches. So that's going to be our offset on the angle.
How do you start siding?
1:5330:12How To Install Vinyl Siding - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipImportant piece to doing the length of these corners is it must overlap the foundation at least aMoreImportant piece to doing the length of these corners is it must overlap the foundation at least a half inch. So that way when water goes down you're siding it goes over your foundation.
What goes at the top of siding?
0:281:06VSI Best Practices -- Finishing at the Top of the Wall - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipEvery six inches utility trim should be installed into the J channel at the top of the wall.MoreEvery six inches utility trim should be installed into the J channel at the top of the wall.
How do you install flashing at the bottom of siding?
0:322:22Vinyl Kickout Base Flashing - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipBegin at the windows siding that's aligned with the bottoms. And tops of windows as faster toMoreBegin at the windows siding that's aligned with the bottoms. And tops of windows as faster to install. And looks dope count your way down to benchmark where the starter strip will go snap.
What do you put on plywood before siding?
Install any rigid foam board or similar exterior insulation over the basic house sheathing and wrap the house with a moisture barrier, typically a polystyrene sheet. Seal the backs of the panels and all edges with primer paint or wood sealer.
Vinyl Siding Starter Strips
Snap a level chalk line for the first starter strip at the base of the wall, no less than 8 inches above ground level, after determining the lowest...
Install Door & Window Trim
Before installing door and window trim, first caulk around the openings to create a moisture- and air-proof seal. Install the tops first, then the...
Install Trim Under Eaves & Rakes
For horizontal siding, install F-channel trim at the soffit and gable rake. For vertical siding, install J-channel trim. Nail every 12 inches on ce...
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.
How to measure corner post?
Make a measurement, using the tape measure, allowing for the width of the corner post, plus an additional 1/4 inch, from the corner. Position the end of a starter strip at this point. Place the top edge of the starter strip along the chalk line.
How to make sure string is level?
Use a level to make sure the string is level, and partially drive in a nail at the same level as the first nail, only on this corner. Use a hammer and nail. Repeat this process around every corner of the house. Advertisement.
How to find the lowest corner of a house?
Locate the lowest possible corner that has sheathing. Hold a tape measure against the exterior wall, and travel around the house to locate the lowest corner.
How to stop rainwater from getting behind windows?
But you can stop that water from getting behind the side J-channels. Create a flap in the top J-channel that overlaps the side channels.
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.
What is needed for vinyl siding?
A flat, level wall surface is necessary for proper installation of vinyl siding. Install flashing before starting to apply the siding.
How thick should vinyl siding be?
The thickness of wood sheathing counts toward the total thickness that the fasteners must penetrate into nailable material, usually 1 1/4” (32mm). But foam plastic sheathing does not contribute toward holding the fastener, so its thickness cannot be counted toward the total. In this case, the fastener would have to be long enough to penetrate through the sheathing and 1 1/4” (32mm) into the wood framing.
How long does a nailer need to be to penetrate wood?
In such cases, the fastener will need to be long enough to penetrate through the non-nailable material and then 1 1/4” (32mm) into wood framing or other nailable material. (Review the siding manufacturer’s instructions and your local building codes for variations that may apply to specific siding or geographic areas.)
How to determine how much siding is needed?
NOTE: The amount of siding needed/waste generated for a vertical siding job will be determined by the height of the wall versus the length of the panels.
What causes vinyl siding to buckle?
Tight nailing, screwing, or stapling will cause the vinyl siding to buckle with changes in temperature (Fig. 16). When fastening, start in the center of the panel and work toward the ends. Center the fasteners in the slots to permit expansion and contraction of the siding (Fig. 17).
Why add siding to all material estimates?
Add siding to all material estimates to allow for waste, depending on the pitch of the roof and other house-specific factors.
How to determine the area to be sided?
The area to be sided can be determined by measuring the height and width of the house , including windows (Fig. 11).
Can you cut siding to go the rest of the way?
Then, you can cut the lengthwise pieces of siding to go the rest of the way.
Do you need to trim back a channel around a window?
You will also need to trim back any existing caulk that will prevent your channels from lying flat against the window trim.
Does vinyl siding warp?
In addition to being affordable, vinyl also offers protection against extreme temperatures and punctures from hail storms and won’t warp or rot. Plus, this lightweight material is easy to install and doesn’t need any specialized tools or equipment. These are just a few of the many benefits of vinyl siding that also include:
Can you replace vinyl siding?
We’ve talked about how to repair your broken vinyl siding, but what about vinyl siding installation? It’s pretty straightforward, and if you can repair your siding, you can replace it. So whether you are a DIY homeowner or a contractor looking to boost your skills, we’ll walk you through the basics of vinyl installation to get it done right the first time.
Does Northface install vinyl siding?
Northface Construction has a team dedicated to installing only the best siding. Although we do install vinyl siding, among other types, we are also a Gold level certified installer for LP Smartside siding, an engineered wood siding. Contact us today to get started on your siding install!
How much does it cost to install vinyl siding?
According to HomeAdvisor, the average vinyl siding installation cost is $11,136, and most homeowners pay between $6,070 and $16,405 for an entire house. Luckily, you can cut that hefty price tag by nearly 50 percent—if you’re willing to do the work yourself. Most home centers sell vinyl siding, and the materials come with fairly complete ...
How long is a window siding?
While you can expect differences among manufacturers, siding systems generally include 12-foot lengths of siding, window/door trim channel, J-channel, utility channel, corner moldings, and metal starter strips. In addition, vented and unvented soffits, as well as fascia covers, are available.
How to make a drip edge for conduit?
In the case of an external conduit, nail insulation backing board around it and trim the sides and top with J-channel. Cut a top cap to meet the flanges of the vertical pieces. Then, snip the bottom of the channel 1/2 inch on each side and bend these tabs down to create a drip edge. Nail the cap over the vertical pieces.
How to keep siding from collapsing?
If you have to cut the top row of siding, then use J-channel at the top instead of utility trim. To keep this last cut row from collapsing against the house, nail a 3-inch strip of 1/2-inch plywood against the J-channel to hold it out.
When to nail utility trim to wall?
When the siding is within a foot of completion, nail lengths of utility trim to the wall just below the soffit.
How long should a soffit be?
With the diagonal corner pieces installed, cut the remaining lengths of soffit material 1/4-inch short of the maximum span, and press them into the channel. Either bend the soffit pieces to fit, or carefully pry the channel back to gain the needed access.
How thick is lap siding?
The siding must be installed over a flat surface, so unless you're siding a new home, or have removed the old lap siding, you'll need to line the wall with sheets of rigid-foam board, usually 1/2-inch thick. While rigid foam offers some insulation, its primary function is to provide a flat nailing surface.
Vinyl Siding Starter Row and Different Elevations
I am new to the forum but have watched many videos and have been very happy with them, as well as the results I have obtained by following them. I almost feel like I really know what I am doing! I spent a few years as a framer (20 years ago), and my father was the type that did everything himself.
Re: Vinyl Siding Starter Row and Different Elevations
Well without seeing the exact situation my instinct would say that the starter will work well on the lowest wall and then J from there but sometimes there is so little siding starting with a full course that J all around works just as good. Or you may have a situation where you can use starter on one entire wall and maybe even around each corner for a ways before you need to convert to J? What ever works..
Re: Vinyl Siding Starter Row and Different Elevations
Ok, I guess my long winded question was the fact that it is proper to use a long run of j channel. My lowest wall does have a fairly long run where I can use starter strip.
