What’s Really Involved in Replacing Your Vinyl Siding?

Vinyl siding is one of the most durable and low-maintenance choices for home exteriors, but a proper installation involves much more than just attaching new panels. Every step—from removal to final touches—is done with precision to ensure weather resistance, longevity, and a seamless look.

In this guide, we’ll take you through the entire process of vinyl siding replacement, including the extra considerations when installing board and batten (vertical siding).

Step 1: Careful Removal of Old Siding

Before installing new vinyl siding, we start by carefully removing the old material, ensuring no damage is done to windows, trim, or surrounding areas.

Why full removal matters:

Some installers cut corners by placing new siding over the old, but we always remove everything down to the original sheathing. This allows us to:

✔ Inspect for hidden damage like rot, mold, or pest infestations

✔ Ensure a flat, clean surface for the new siding

✔ Properly install weatherproofing layers

Step 2: Inspecting and Prepping the Sheathing

Once the old siding is removed, we inspect the sheathing—the layer of wood beneath the siding—to ensure it’s in good condition. Any signs of moisture damage, rot, or warping are addressed before moving forward.

This step is essential to ensuring that the new siding will last for decades.

Step 3: Installing a Weather-Resistant Barrier

Many homeowners assume that siding itself is waterproof, but vinyl must be installed in a way that allows for expansion and contraction. Because of this, it cannot be fully sealed at every seam.

To protect your home, we install either:

✅ House Wrap (e.g., Tyvek): A breathable barrier that repels water while allowing vapor to escape.

✅ Insulation Board: Adds moisture protection while improving energy efficiency.

This step is crucial for waterproofing, ensuring your home stays dry and well-insulated.

Step 4: Establishing a Functional Layout

Before installing the new siding, we establish a precise starting layout. Instead of following a strict level line, we align the siding with the home’s roofline and foundation to create a visually balanced look.

💡 Why? Many homes have settled over time. If we install siding at a mathematically perfect level, it may appear crooked next to doors, windows, or the roofline.

We also custom-bend and install a Splash Guard, a flashing that:

✔ Protects the bottom edge of the sheathing from splashing rain and snow.

✔ Prevents moisture-related damage over time.

Step 5: Installing Starter Strips and Corner Posts

Now that the base is set, we install:

• Starter Strip: The foundation where the first row of vinyl siding locks in.

• Corner Posts: Provide a seamless transition between siding panels and improve durability.

What About Windows and Doors?

Unlike many installers who use plastic J-trim, we custom-bend our own aluminum flashing around windows and doors, integrating the trim directly.

💡 Why this matters:

✅ Creates a cleaner, more seamless look

✅ Eliminates bulky extra plastic trim

✅ Enhances weatherproofing with a tight, water-resistant seal

Step 6: Installing Vinyl Siding

With the foundation set, the new vinyl siding is installed carefully, ensuring:

✔ Proper expansion gaps to prevent warping

✔ Fastening technique that allows for movement (vinyl is never nailed too tightly)

✔ Staggered seams for a polished, natural appearance

Since vinyl expands and contracts with temperature changes, this precision ensures long-term durability.

Step 7: Board and Batten (Vertical Siding) Considerations

Board and batten, or vertical vinyl siding, offers a beautiful, modern look but requires a slightly different installation approach.

Key Differences from Horizontal Siding:

📏 Panel Lengths: Vertical panels typically come in 10-foot lengths. If a home has 8-foot walls, this means each panel leaves 2 feet of waste. Unlike horizontal siding, board and batten cannot have seams, which increases material usage.

🔹 How We Make It Seamless: We install a custom-bent "belly band"—a horizontal trim piece—wherever needed to create clean transitions between siding sections.

💡 Does vertical siding cost more? While material usage is higher, the overall look and durability of board and batten make it a worthwhile investment for many homeowners.

Step 8: Final Touches and Inspection

Once the siding is installed, we:

✔ Finish all cut edges with trim

✔ Caulk aluminum caps where necessary to prevent water infiltration

✔ Conduct a final inspection to ensure proper sealing and alignment

This step guarantees a flawless, long-lasting installation.

Final Thoughts: The Value of a Proper Vinyl Siding Installation

A well-installed vinyl siding system isn’t just about looks—it protects your home for decades. Our process ensures:

✔ A weather-resistant and energy-efficient exterior

✔ A seamless, balanced aesthetic

✔ Long-term durability with minimal maintenance

By understanding the steps involved, homeowners can appreciate the level of craftsmanship and expertise that goes into a proper siding installation.

Thinking About New Vinyl Siding? Let’s Talk!

If you're considering horizontal or vertical siding for your home, we're here to help.

Contact us today for a consultation!