diy vinyl siding

Any diy vinyl siding(do it yourself)project can save many thousands of dollars. It isn't as hard as most people think because the vinyl is soft and easy to cut. It makes a house look so beautiful in such a short time.

installing vinyl siding doesn't have to be overwhelming or confusing and with a little bit of learning and information, anyone can do it. It's really easy! I'm not kidding.

Before you can purchase your siding and accessories, you'll need to figure your coverage square footage. Next, get a linear foot measurement of your windows, doors and eaves where the J-channel will be attached to know how much to purchase.

The tools needed for working with vinyl siding are inexpensive. The Vinyl Institute website has free information regarding all aspects of vinyl siding application.

The snaplock tool punches lug holes into the vinyl so that it locks in place at the top of the wall.



A vinyl saw really isn't necessary, but it could save a little time. I prefer to use snips to cut the vinyl. It's that easy.

A zip tool helps to separate vinyl when it needs to be replaced. It also helps to align the sheets during installation.

Before the vinyl goes on, you'll need to do a lot of preliminary work with vinyl accessories. The starter strip is nailed on to the bottom of the wall. The first sheet of vinyl will attach to it.

The utility trim will be at the top and will hold the top vinyl sheet in place.

J-channel will go around all windows and doors. It will hold the vinyl sheets in place and also cover the jagged edges of the vinyl.

F-channel will hold the soffit sheets in place.

There are many kinds of vinyl siding. I like the double lap type the best. It's really easy to work with and looks great.

The starter strip goes on first and then the utility trim. The J-channel goes on all windows, doors and eaves.

You can see in the illustration above how the vinyl sheets tuck up into the J-channel.

F-channel is used to hold the soffit in place. The soffit pieces slide into the F-channel. You can also use J-channel as in the second illustration above. It isn't as secure as F-channel though.

When we put it all together it makes a tight, weatherproof seal and it creates a nice appearance. Most vinyl siding projects are fun and they look really good. Give it a try!

Next, tips for installing vinyl siding