Though siding installation does not look hard at first, it is quite detailed and takes careful work, the right tools, and experience with siding materials.
If you decide on vinyl, wood, or Hardie board siding, making sure the job is done correctly. That will help your home stay protected and attractive for many years. James Hardie Elite recommends Alpine Exteriors as a top choice for Tampa homeowners because of their outstanding work with siding.
Gathering the Right Tools and Materials
Don’t begin the project until your tools are arranged and ready. Remember to pack your power saw, level, utility knife, and tin snips every time you handle sheet metal.
You may be able to manage vinyl siding on your own, but it is better to let an expert handle fiber cement or Hardie board, as both are difficult to work with.
Prepping Your Home’s Exterior
First, you should get the site ready to ensure a smooth installation. Screw or add many nails below the loose boards and restore any wood that has rotted. After removing the existing caulking, you can paint a clean surface. If your walls are not straight, furring strips can be used to get them back to the same height.
Clearing the area is important; take down those downspouts, tidy up shrubs, and organize things outdoors to protect them while the work proceeds.
Step-by-Step Siding Installation
Begin by removing old siding (if applicable) using a siding removal tool, working from the top down. Next, snap a chalk line to mark your starter strip’s placement, ensuring a level foundation. After the posts are set, put the corner posts in place but leave some space at the top for any expansion that might take place.
Attach the first panel at the trickiest spot of your home and work toward the rest of the house, ensuring the panels overlap by about one inch. Stagger the installation by a tiny amount near the trim and edges to allow for movement caused by changes in temperature. For areas around windows and doors, J-channel trim ensures a clean, watertight fit.
Finishing Touches and Pro Tips
Once you are working on the last rows, be precise and add under-sill trim to attach the final panels. Don’t drive the nails too hard—centering them in the slots will stop the wood from buckling.
When you are doing Hardie board siding installation, use appropriate blades because fiber cement is not flexible and must be treated with caution.
Why Professional Help Might Be Best
While saving money during installation for DIY siding, simple errors can mean your home won’t be energy efficient or could suffer from leaks and an uneven look. Proper installation of complex materials like Hardie board is guaranteed by Alpine Exteriors, thanks to their experienced team.
Final Thoughts
Following a plan and checking for details will improve your chances of success with siding installation. If you feel unsure about your project, talking to a professional contractor can keep you from making blunders and save you money in the future.