What this covers
Vinyl siding is the most common cladding on American homes because it is light, needs no paint and goes up quickly. A careful installer strips the old siding or prepares it as a base, repairs any damaged sheathing, wraps the wall and flashes every window and door, then hangs the panels loosely so they can expand and contract with temperature. Corner posts, J-channel at openings and trim blocks around fixtures finish the job. The marks of good work are straight courses, overlaps that face away from the main view, and panels that slide freely rather than buckle.
When to call
- Siding that is cracked, warped or faded past the point where washing helps.
- Loose panels after a storm, or panels that rattle in the wind.
- A rebuild after fire or water damage where the exterior must be reclad.
- An older home with peeling paint you no longer want to maintain.
What to expect
- InspectThe company checks the sheathing, trim and flashing behind the old siding and notes repairs.
- PrepareOld cladding is removed or secured, damaged sheathing replaced, and house wrap and flashing installed.
- HangPanels are nailed loosely in their slots, overlapped away from view, with corner posts and J-channel.
- FinishTrim, vents and fixture blocks are fitted, the site is cleaned, and you walk the exterior with the installer.
Get a certified company
Look up a certified company by ZIP code. Every company's license, insurance and trades are verified before it is listed, and placement is never paid.
Questions people ask
Can vinyl go over existing siding?
Sometimes, over flat wood siding with a layer of foam or furring to even it out. Over damaged or uneven cladding, removal is the better choice because it exposes rot and lets the wall be wrapped and flashed properly.
Why is vinyl nailed loosely?
Vinyl grows and shrinks with temperature. Nails set tight in the slots stop that movement and the panel buckles or cracks. The installer leaves a small gap under each nail head.
Does vinyl siding need painting?
No. The color runs through the panel. Washing with a hose and a mild cleaner keeps it looking fresh, and some vinyl can be painted later with coatings made for it if you want a new color.
Related: Siding repair · Fiber cement siding · Soffit and fascia repair · All siding, windows and doors
This page describes what the service involves. The company you hire sets the scope, the schedule and the price, and your contract is with that company. We verify credentials and collect reviews from real jobs. We do not guarantee any company's workmanship. Safety steps are general guidance. When in doubt, leave the home and call 911.