Replacing old siding can help improve the curb appeal of your home, while also providing insulation and energy efficiency benefits. Vinyl siding is a modern material that provides a long-lasting and durable layer for your home and looks modern on all homes. New siding can help you save money and prevent pest infestations that come from a compromised home. Installing vinyl siding yourself can often save you money on installation and labor costs, but is it recommended for the longevity of your siding? Installing vinyl siding is a fairly straightforward process for both homeowners and professionals, but there are some key considerations to keep in mind when completing a DIY project.
Pros And Cons Of Installing Siding Yourself
There are many pros and cons of doing a home DIY project, especially when there are factors out of your control. Installing siding, new roofing, or windows is the most complex process for homeowners to do themselves, so taking extra time and precautions will help you love the final result.
Some of the pros of installing siding yourself include:
- Lower upfront cost
- Sense of accomplishment
- Avoid the process of vetting multiple companies
- Completed on your timeline
Cons of installing vinyl siding yourself include:
- The need for specialized tools
- Higher risk of injury
- Potential for low-quality work
- No warranty on materials or installation
The Process Of Installing Vinyl Siding
Those who decide to install new siding on the exterior of their home should follow proper processes to ensure that the siding can withstand the elements. Vinyl siding is one of the more user-friendly options that can be installed by homeowners without much hassle. Vinyl often comes with pre-drilled holes for the nails and comes in many colors and textures to help you avoid complex customization processes. Here are the steps to follow if you are installing vinyl siding yourself.
Preparation
The most important step for a home project is the preparation, including removing old materials and cleaning before installation. You should remove old siding before applying the new vinyl siding to ensure that the structure is in good condition.
Apply a weather-resistant barrier to protect from moisture and improve its insulation of your home. Using this barrier will help keep your home cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter, while also blocking mold and mildew from sneaking underneath your siding.
Measure And Cut
Siding will need to be measured and cut to the exact specifications of your home in order to protect the home. Vinyl siding will need to be cut using a circular saw or utility knife to the appropriate lengths around your home.
Starter Strip And J-Channel
Install the starter strip at the bottom of your wall to help support the first row of siding. Placing J-channels around windows, doors, or other cutouts will create clean corners and allow for expansion when temperature fluctuations occur.
Install Siding Panels
Once all the prep work is complete, you can install the siding panels. You should start with the bottom row, locking each panel together and then securing them with nails. Overlapping the panels will keep moisture and bugs from getting under the siding, but make sure not to overlap too far or secure too tightly, so the siding can expand as the weather changes.
Corners
You will then install corner pieces and end panels to complete the look of your siding. Trim will also need to be installed to help seal small gaps and make your home look modern and professional.
Final Touches
Inspect all of your work and clean up any random pieces or mess that you have created during installation. Place any extra pieces of siding in a safe and dry place for future repairs or replacement.
The Cost Of Paying For Professional Siding Installation
There are many costs associated with siding installation, not just the labor to install the siding on your home. When hiring a professional team, you are paying for their experience, labor, tools, and the materials installed around your home. While this may seem like a high cost, professional companies can often get discounts on bulk products and specialized tools that you won’t be able to get on your own. Investing in the protection of your home is worth any cost, but it may be out of the budget for some homeowners. Choose a company that fits your budget, or maybe one that offers a special promotion if you want a professional look to your siding.
New Siding From Our Professionals
Unlimited Siding offers vinyl siding to customers across the state of Utah to help them protect their homes from weather, pests, and sun damage. Unlimited Siding has the expertise needed to install new siding quickly and efficiently. While installing vinyl siding yourself might be appealing, there are benefits to working with a full team. Limit your stress and ensure your home is prepared for winter weather by booking a service with us.
