by | Feb 24, 2020 | Siding

Your Complete Siding Installation Checklist

Your Complete Siding Installation Checklist

Siding Checklist to Guide your Installation Project

The project is on the eve of the beginning. Now that you have figured out your budget, you are ready to start installing new siding on your home. But are you as prepared as you think you are? Although siding installation is one of the more popular home improvement projects these days, that does not mean it is easy. Like any other renovation, siding installation requires some preparation beforehand to make sure your project starts and finishes without incident.

 

We recommend making a siding installation checklist to guide your project. Here are some things that should be included on your siding installation checklist:

 

A Summary of Needs and Gathered Equipment

Take a look around at the materials you’ve ordered. Do you have everything? Should you purchase extras, just in case? One of the best ways to keep track of what you are going to need and how many pieces in total is to create a summary sheet. List all the pieces required for the siding installation, like trimmings, channels, flashing, and fascia, as well as the number of pieces need.

 

Then, calculate the total area for the horizontal walls, dormers (if needed), and gables. Confirm that the amount you ordered is enough. Do the same for trimming and soffits.

 

Next, check your tools. Make a checklist for yourself, containing things like:

 

  • Tape measure
  • Hammers
  • Tin snips
  • Levels
  • Work table
  • Chalk
  • Safety glasses
  • Scaffolding and/or ladders
  • Radial saw
  • Utility knife
  • Specialized tools – nail-slot punch, snap-lock punch, siding removal tool, j-trim cutter
  • Caulk

 

Think about a plan of attack. Which sections are you going to work on first? How many people will be installing siding on your home? With this plan figured out, you can divide up labor more effectively and get done that much quicker.

 

Tasks To Prepare Your Home For Siding Installation

Like any renovation, you need to make sure your house is prepared. In fact, surface preparation is one of the most essential parts of a successful siding installation. Here are some tasks to check off your to-do list:

 

  • Remove any shutters, fixtures, and downspouts from the building. Clear any other objects that may get in the way, such as plant boxes, patio furniture, and gardening supplies.
  • Replace old or rotten wood and secure any loose boards, wood trimming, or siding that is not being replaced with nails. Have a siding contractor perform an initial inspection to find the weakest sections. Never put siding over rotten wood.
  • Tie back shrubbery and tree limbs to prevent plants from scraping or wiping away paint.
  • Remove old caulking from windows and doorways. Re-caulk doors, windows, and any other areas that are susceptible to moisture penetration.
  • Check that all walls are even and level. Install furring strips, if necessary. When you install furring strips, make sure you have taken the appropriate measurements so the surface is smooth.
  • Have a dumpster delivered so you have somewhere to put debris and other refuse.
  • Keep children and pets out of the work area.
  • Considering building codes in your area. If it is required, you may have to apply a water-resistant barrier to the sheathing prior to installing the new siding. Make sure you are using an approved house wrap.
  • Always install new flashing before applying the vinyl siding. Double-check with building code requirements for your region.
  • To reduce the chance of floor-plate compression (buckled siding) in new constructions, always install drywall, roofing, and other heavy materials before starting with siding.

 

Aside from preparing your home and walls for the installation, consider other projects that may need to be completed before the siding is applied. For example, you may need to install new flashing and upgrade your home’s insulation prior to the siding installation. If you do that, you will need to allow enough time to do it all.

 

Check The Local Weather Forecast

As important as it is to have your equipment and materials set up, you also need to factor in the weather. Humidity and precipitation will be a huge setback in the installation process and can even damage new siding before it is set up. This, in turn, will affect the durability and functionality of your siding throughout the years.

 

So, watch the local weather forecast. Plan accordingly. Consider a couple days with guaranteed sunshine, since your siding project might wind up taking longer if there is a problem. You should always install new siding during warm weather, preferably during the spring or summer.

 

Get Yourself a Professional Siding Contractor

Before you begin, you need to have a contractor. Yes, installing siding on your home might seem like an easier task than plumbing, for instance, there are things that require an expert’s touch. Plus, having a reputable siding contractor on board reduces the chances of making costly mistakes.

 

There’s another reason why you would want a siding contractor helping out with installation. Unforeseen circumstances can impact the project, including things like finding damaged sections of the house or emergency repairs. These might be things you cannot handle on your own, which is why a helping hand is necessary.

 

For example, if you find dry rot or water damage once siding has been removed, your siding contractor will probably need to do unexpected repairs. However, if you are prepared for a worst case scenario, you will have budgeted appropriately.

 

Conclusion

There you have it—a complete siding installation checklist. By following this tips and steps, you will be able to plan out a smooth installation. Remember, preparedness is key. Get a siding contractor to inspect your home, tally up your materials, and have everything ready to go for the next sunny day.

Heat gain and heat loss through windows are responsible for 25%–30% of residential heating and cooling energy costs. As a homeowner, you should consider the Benefits of Energy Star Rated Window and doors.

Finding the right contractor will make all the difference in the world when it comes to being completely satisfied with your new siding. Hiring a professional means you won’t have to worry about repairs any time in the near future, too. Call Alba your home renovation service contractor in Ottawa.
Are you in need of a Canexel siding installer in Ottawa? At Alba Home Services, we do all kinds of siding installation.

 

OTHER SERVICES WE PROVIDE

 

SIDING

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BATHROOMS

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BASEMENTS

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WINDOWS

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Home Improvement

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ROOFING SERVICE

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KITCHEN RENOVATIONS

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WATER DAMAGE

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SOFFIT FASCIA

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OTTAWA EAVESTROUGHING SERVICE

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GALLERY

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UTILITIES

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