Can You Handle Vinyl Siding Installation?
by William Gerard
Installing vinyl siding is a very smart home remodel project. It is one of the most popular exterior remodels because the homeowner can usually install it. There are few remodels that are so simple, yet have such a drastic effect on the style and functionality of the property. Installing vinyl is simple, but there are some things that you want to consider before taking on the product. This article explains the most difficult parts of siding installation. This way you can decide beforehand if it is project that you are interested in. As you are reading this, you should be asking yourself, "Can I handle this?"
Logistics and Physical Requirements
If you are buying your product directly form a home improvement or siding store, you need to be able to safely transport it to your property. This means you will probably need a pick up truck or utility van. Vinyl siding in sold in packages that are not too heavy. You can often carry a package or two at once. However, you need to carry and lift a lot of packages so be prepared and bring a helper (or two).
As mentioned, vinyl siding is relatively lightweight. However, you need to remember that you will be installing much of it while you are on top of a ladder. So, you need to be able to carry the weight while climbing up and balancing on a ladder. Vinyl siding might be light, but the planks are usually long (anywhere from 6'-12') so they are awkward to handle.
How Difficult is to Hang the Vinyl
Vinyl siding planks have a modular build, meaning the piece lock together without any fasteners. The majority of the siding can be quickly snapped together. However, there is a lot of work that goes into the leveling the planks and attaching the anchor pieces. These anchors need to be securely attached to the wall (and level) to ensure they can support the weight of the rest of the planks. This means they need to be secured with long screws that penetrate the sidewall and hit the studs in the wall. If you have brick, or stucco sidewalls, this can be quite a difficult process. However, if you have solid wooden sidewalls, it is much easier.
As you can see, vinyl siding is a relatively simple home remodel project, but should not be taken on if you can't handle the physical and technical aspects of the work.
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Do you know how to tell if you have problems with your flashing, loose shingles, or damaged tar pitch? Well, I didn't either until I experienced some of those issues on my own. One day, I realized that my roof was leaking and that I needed to find a solution fast. After contacting a professional roofing company, they were able to solve my troubles and teach me the signs of trouble. I want you to avoid the same types of hassles, which is why my blog is filled to the brim with information about roofing and home ownership. You never know, these tips could really come in handy!