Vinyl is a relatively new siding material that grows in popularity with the continuous efforts of manufacturers to further enhance its features. Vinyl siding comes in a plethora of colors and styles that superbly resembles architectural details, making it a great contributor to the aesthetic appeal of homes. It serves as a durable option that will not flake or rot and requires very low maintenance. So if you're thinking of having your New York home spruced up with vinyl siding, there are some essentials you need to know.

Installation of vinyl siding is said to be relatively easy, making it a popular do-it-yourself project to many homeowners. But there is actually more to it than what the ads tell you. You need to have good deal of layout skills and proper equipment as it is important that you could work the product installation efficiently around every detail of your home. In fact, 99% of all arising problems caused by the use of the material can be tracked down to improper installation. This makes hiring a qualified local contractor a great idea to implement into your project.

Vinyl Siding Selection

There several factors to look into when choosing a product to make sure that the project results last longer than expected. When choosing colors, it's a better idea to opt for the lighter ones. The reason that darker colors are typically unavailable in the market is because they tend to fade. Gauge or thickness of the vinyl siding is the key to its durability. Though more costly, the thicker option is the better.

Surface Preparation

This crucial phase is when all cracks around doors and windows should be properly caulked and every other energy leak is located and sealed. Before the vinyl siding is installed, make sure that the surface should already be very smooth and is solid.

For new construction, be sure to discuss with your contractor the application of water/air infiltration barrier and foil faced foam sheathing. With older homes, the product can directly be installed over the existing sidings only if they are made of wood or stucco. A good weatherization and home insulation measure to take is to have cellulose, foam or fiberglass injected or blown into the wall cavities. If the current siding is aluminum or vinyl, this needs to be removed first.

Vinyl Siding Installation

In the installation of vinyl siding, the product is actually the last thing to be applied after all the details have been fixed like the J channels, light blocks, corner posts, arches, dryer vent accessories, front door cornices, etc. In laying out the project, the greatest challenge is in the areas of the house with varying levels.

When installing, it is important that the expansion and contraction of the vinyl siding is well accommodated. This is caused by the changes in temperature and is most common in the length of the panels. Strong winds can also cause the siding to rattle if they are applied too loosely. The key solution to these foreseen problems is proper nailing where the materials are given just enough space to move but not flap as the wind blows.