I had part of my siding come off my house, and I'm not really sure how to fix it. Should I just nail on a replacement piece of siding, or could I be looking at more serious damage? The exposed wood underneath appears a bit rotted, so I'm worried any new siding might just fall off as well if the underlying problem isn't dealt with. What should I do?
2 Answers
First off, it's crucial to deal with that rotted wood. If the wood is bad, you either need to replace it or add a sister board for support. Make sure to identify where moisture is getting in and prevent it, too! About the siding, while I can't see what type you have, it sounds like you might need a special vinyl siding tool. This tool helps you securely nail the new siding in place after you’ve taken out the old panel. If you're feeling unsure, a nearby siding warehouse is a good place to get materials or advice from contractors who might even be willing to help for a small fee!
You can definitely tackle this project yourself if you're up for it! Just make sure to have the right tools. Once you remove the old panel, align and hook the new one into the existing siding, securing it with nails. The nails should go into the pre-cut openings at the top of the panel to hold it in place. It's all about getting that bottom lip hooked into the lower section properly and then making sure the top is secured. If you're concerned about working at height, make sure you have a sturdy ladder, or consider calling in a pro if it’s out of reach!