Summary of Preparatory Activities

 

  1. Step One
    1. Remove all old siding, including any installation accessories.
    2. We will also have to remove the back deck.
  2. Step Two
    1. Apply FanFold insulation directly onto outside walls.  Ensure all pieces fit close together.  Joints may be sealed with special insulation tape.
  3. Step Three
    1. Create a chalk line.  This is to ensure that all materials are installed level.
    2. Install flashing along the base of the insulation.  This should be Z shaped so that in begins at the chalk line and bends under the sheathing and covers a portion of the foundation.
    3. Install the starter strip.

                                                              i.      This should be positioned at the top edge on the chalk line.  Leave a 6.5 in space at corners and a 0.25 in space between starter pieces.  Nail every 8 – 10 inches.

    1. Install outside corner posts

                                                              i.      Flash the corners by bending a 10 in piece of coil into a 90o angle and attaching to corners.

                                                           ii.      Position outside corner posts with a 0.25 in space at the top and the bottom overhanging by 0.75 in.  Put first nail at the top most spot, and all other nails at 8 – 10 in spaces. 

    1. Install window and door trim

                                                              i.      Flash around all windows and doors by cutting 5 in sections of coil and attaching to outside of windows and doors.

                                                           ii.      Install J-channel around all windows and doors.  Corners will need to be square cut.

                                                         iii.      Our house will also need flashing and J-channel where the brick façade is near the siding.

 

 

Siding Installation

 

  1. Step One
    1. Cutting Panels:  Use a power circular saw with the blade installed backwards.  Cut only one or two panels at a time.  If a horizontal cut is needed, use a utility knife to score the piece, then bend it back and forth until it splits.
    2. Overlapping panels:  Allow a 1 in overlap of all panels to allow for expansion and contraction.
  2. Step Two
    1. Install siding

                                                              i.      Apply pieces from back to front to reduce the “lapping”.  This is visually more appealing.

                                                           ii.      Slide the first piece into the corner post recess and hook the bottom lock of the panel into the starter strip.  Apply upward pressure until it locks into place.

                                                         iii.      Before nailing, ensure that the entire piece is locked into place.  It should slide freely from side to side.  When attaching, begin nailing at the center and work out.

                                                          iv.      Install remaining first row pieces.  Final nail should be at least 4 in from the end of the panel.

                                                            v.      When final row is attached, they may need to be cut horizontally to fit.  Follow directions as above.  J-channel will also need to be installed under the soffit.  Use a snap lock punch to create tabs on outside face 0.25 in below the edge.  Space these tabs every 6 in.  To install, lock bottom of panel into the panel below.  Push top edge into trim.  Tabs will catch in trim.  (Be sure these tabs catch, because this piece will not be nailed)

 

This in not meant to be a definitive summary.  I will consult the following manuals during installation.

 

Fit and Finish Installation Guide.  (2002)  Wolverine Siding Systems.

 

Vinyl Siding Installation Manual.  (2004)  Washington D.C.:  The Vinyl Siding Institute.