DIY Project: Replacing Siding on Your House – A Step-by-Step Guide
If you’ve noticed your home’s siding looking worn, damaged, or just in need of a refresh, replacing it can be a rewarding DIY project. Not only does new siding improve your home’s curb appeal, but it also enhances its protection against the elements. I recently tackled this project on my own house, and I’m excited to share the process with you! In this blog post, I’ll walk you through the steps to replace siding on your house, along with some tips to make the job easier.
Why Replace Your Siding?
Siding serves as your home’s first line of defense against weather, pests, and other environmental factors. Over time, it can crack, warp, or fade, leaving your home vulnerable to water damage or insulation issues. In my case, the siding on one side of my house had started to deteriorate due to years of exposure to harsh weather, and I could see the underlying sheathing was at risk. Replacing it was the best way to protect my home and give it a fresh look.
Tools and Materials You’ll Need
Before you start, gather the following tools and materials:
New siding panels (I used vinyl siding, but you can choose aluminum, fiber cement, or wood depending on your preference)
Hammer and nails (or a nail gun for faster work)
Tin snips (for cutting vinyl or aluminum siding)
Safety gear (gloves, safety glasses, and a dust mask)
Ladder or scaffolding
Replacement underlayment (if needed, like house wrap or foam board for insulation)
J-channel and corner pieces (for finishing edges)
Caulk and a caulking gun
Step 1: Assess the Damage and Plan Your Project
Start by inspecting the area where you’ll be replacing the siding. In the photo I shared, you can see that I had already removed the old siding, exposing the wooden sheathing underneath. Check for any signs of water damage, rot, or pest activity on the sheathing. If the sheathing is damaged, you’ll need to replace it before installing new siding. In my case, the sheathing was in decent shape, but I added a layer of house wrap for extra moisture protection.
Measure the area to determine how much siding you’ll need. Siding is typically sold in squares (1 square = 100 square feet), so calculate the square footage of the area you’re covering and add about 10% extra for waste and mistakes.
Step 2: Remove the Old Siding
Removing the old siding can be the most labor-intensive part of the project, but it’s straightforward. Here’s how to do it:
Start at the top: Use a pry bar or siding removal tool to gently lift the top edge of the siding panel. Most siding is interlocked, so you’ll need to unhook it from the panel below.
Work your way down: Once the top piece is free, remove the nails or staples holding it in place and pull it off. Continue working downward, panel by panel.
Be careful around corners and edges: You may need to remove J-channels or corner pieces to free the siding. Keep these pieces if they’re in good condition—you might be able to reuse them.
Dispose of old siding: Depending on the material, you may be able to recycle the old siding. Check with your local waste management facility.
In the photo, you can see the old siding has already been removed, and I’m standing in front of the exposed sheathing. The ground is a bit messy with debris, so make sure to clean up as you go to avoid tripping hazards.
Step 3: Prepare the Surface
With the old siding removed, inspect the sheathing and framing for any damage. Replace any rotted wood and ensure the surface is flat and smooth. If you’re adding house wrap or foam board for insulation (like the Dow foam board visible in the photo), now’s the time to install it. Secure it with staples or nails, making sure it’s taut and overlaps at the seams to prevent moisture from seeping through.
Step 4: Install the New Siding
Now comes the fun part—installing the new siding! Follow these steps:
Install starter strips and trim: At the bottom of the wall, install a starter strip to give the first row of siding something to lock into. Use a level to ensure it’s straight. Also, install J-channels around windows, doors, and corners to create a clean edge for the siding to fit into.
Cut the siding to size: Measure the length of the wall and cut your siding panels to fit using tin snips or a utility knife. Leave a small gap (about 1/4 inch) at each end to allow for expansion and contraction due to temperature changes.
Start at the bottom: Hook the bottom edge of the first siding panel into the starter strip. Nail it into place through the pre-drilled nail slots, but don’t drive the nails in too tightly—siding needs room to move slightly. Use a level to ensure the panel is straight.
Work your way up: Overlap the next panel onto the one below it, following the manufacturer’s instructions for the overlap amount (usually about 1 inch). Continue nailing and checking for level as you go.
Fit around obstacles: For windows, doors, or outlets, cut the siding to fit using a utility knife or tin snips. Make sure to leave a small gap around these areas and seal with caulk if needed.
Step 5: Add Finishing Touches
Once all the siding panels are installed, add the finishing touches:
Install corner pieces and J-channels to cover the edges of the siding.
Check for any gaps and fill them with caulk to prevent water infiltration.
Clean up the area, removing any debris, tools, and leftover materials.
Tips for Success
Work with a partner: Siding panels can be long and unwieldy, so having someone to help hold them in place while you nail makes the job easier.
Choose the right weather: Avoid working in extreme heat or cold, as temperature can affect how the siding expands or contracts. A mild, dry day is ideal.
Take your time around corners and edges: These areas are the most visible, so precise cuts and proper trim installation will make your project look professional.
Wear safety gear: Gloves, safety glasses, and sturdy shoes are a must. In the photo, I’m wearing gloves and work boots to protect myself while handling tools and materials.
The Result
After a weekend of work, my house has a fresh new look, and I feel confident knowing it’s better protected against the elements. Replacing siding is a manageable DIY project if you’re comfortable with basic tools and have a bit of patience. Not only did I save money by doing it myself, but I also gained a sense of accomplishment that’s hard to beat.
If you’re tackling a similar project, I’d love to hear about your experience in the comments! And if you have any questions, feel free to ask—I’m happy to share more details about my process.
Happy DIY-ing!
Have a DIY dilemma or need project advice? Reach out to the Home Flipper team! Reasonable Consultation Rates!
MULTI-SURFACE CLEANER
The BEEST Siding Cleaner is a multi-surface outdoor cleaning solution designed to remove dirt, grime, mold, and mildew from house siding, decks, fences, and concrete. This concentrated formula is easy to use with a garden hose or pressure washer, offering a powerful, eco-friendly clean that restores surfaces without harsh chemicals. Ideal for homeowners seeking a versatile and effective exterior cleaner.