How to Repair a Hole in Vinyl Siding
Before beginning to repair exterior vinyl siding damage, make sure you have vinyl siding that matches the type used on your home. It is not uncommon to save some vinyl siding to make repairs, so look around to see if you, or a previous homeowner has saved some.
If not, cut away a small section of your vinyl siding from the area that needs to be repaired. Take this section to your local home improvement center to match color and width. You will probably have to buy more than you will need for your project, save the rest in a cool, dry place for the next home repair.
For this project you will also need a piece of vapor barrier the size of the repair area, tin snips, and a prybar. You may also need some other minor pieces of equipment, like a hammer and some nails.
Once you have the correct siding, the actual repair should be easily accomplished. First, remove all damaged sections of the vinyl siding completely. The vinyl siding may snap together, use a pry bar to remove the first piece as needed. Also remove any nails used to attach the vinyl siding. After the first piece has been removed, the other damaged pieces should be easily removed after the nails have been removed.
Chances are the vapor barrier beneath the vinyl siding has several holes from removed nails. Cover the complete area of the repair with a piece of vapor barrier. You can use nails or a staple gun to tack it into place.
Next use the old pieces of vinyl siding as a guide for cutting the new pieces. Tin snips are an easy way of cutting vinyl siding to the appropriate lengths needed for the job. Use a file to remove any ragged edges before installation.
Once you have cut the first piece of replacement siding, snap it into place by pushing it up and waiting until you hear a snap. Nail the vinyl siding into place and continue this technique with the rest of the pieces. The last piece will have to be snapped into place by using a prybar.
After you have finished your installation, clean any scuff marks off your vinyl siding with a damp cloth. You may also want to consider using a power washer to clean the exterior of your home after you repair your siding. Look at the manufacturer’s instructions for recommended cleaning methods and times.
Repairing your own vinyl siding is an easy way to save money while keeping the exterior of your home well maintained. If you don’t know how to use a hammer, or would rather spend your Saturday relaxing, call a professional. He should be able to complete the job in an afternoon for a few hundred dollars.
