Vinyl siding is very similar to aluminum siding in terms of size, shape, application and appearance. To tell the difference between the two, a close vinyl siding inspection is often required. The coloring in vinyl siding is embedded in the material, and is the same throughout its thickness. The coloring in aluminum siding is only on the surface, so an end cut or scratch in the aluminum reveals the silvery color of the bare metal. To make the difference between aluminum and vinyl siding, look at an end cut or joint.
Vinyl siding is typically installed with an insulation backer board behind each sheet, which adds rigidity and strength besides the insulation value. Vinyl siding normally does not dent from impact, it flexes and springs back to its original shape. During very cold weather, however, the siding becomes brittle, and a hard blow could shatter or crack it. During a vinyl siding inspection, check for cracked and broken sections, as well as loose and sagging sections with open joints.
Keep in mind that vinyl siding expands and contracts as the temperature changes. If it is improperly nailed, this movement will result in waviness and blisters in the vinyl panels. If you notice this condition, a siding inspection & repair are required.
Vinyl Siding Inspection
Homeowners, remodeling contractors and builders often prefer vinyl to aluminum or wood siding installation, because vinyl is attractive, durable, easy to install and very cost-effective. In addition, vinyl siding is often textured to resemble wood or stone in a variety of colors.
Though vinyl siding is a very popular and well-regarded product, there are also some downsides. For instance, in extreme weather conditions, siding damage may occur, just as with any other type of siding. Extreme heat can cause vinyl to melt or distort.
Although some salespeople often misrepresent vinyl siding as a form of insulation, it is not. It is simply an exterior cladding, it will not aid energy savings unless it includes special insulating inserts or backings. The vinyl siding itself has no insulating value.
In addition, vinyl siding is not a watertight covering, and is not fire resistant either. If a fire occurs, the siding will melt or burn and may release toxic chemicals, making the situation even more dangerous.
Problems with vinyl siding can occur if incorrect installation is allowing water to become trapped behind the siding. If this condition is recorded during a siding inspection, it should be addressed before water damage becomes a real issue.
Tips for Vinyl Siding Inspection & Repair
While inspecting the exterior of a house, you may observe several details that indicate some siding damage, depending on whether the vinyl siding has already been installed or is in the process of being installed.
Ripples in the vinyl siding can result from stapling or nailing through the face of the siding, which is an improper installation. In spots where panels meet the receiver of inside corners, outside corners, J-trim or at overlap joints, caulk is not needed.
Normal expansion and retraction of the vinyl requires at least ¼-inch of clearance at all openings and stops. Buckling and distortion of panels may be caused by fasteners that were not driven straight and level. Proper installation requires that fastener heads not be driven too tightly against the siding’s nail hem, but leave about 1/32 inch of clearance between the fastener head and siding panel.
Fasteners are best driven at least ¾ inch into a surface meant to accept nails, such as substantial sheathing or furring strips. Where two pieces overlap, a ½ inch gap should be left between nailing strips. If installed properly, fasteners will be in the center of the nailing slot.
Wind-driven rain can easily get into the space behind the siding, so building paper or at least housewrap should be installed behind the siding to protect against water damage. Drainage holes or slots in horizontal vinyl siding allow water behind the siding to drain. Lap joints should be staggered, rather than lined up vertically.
Surface-mounted fixtures, such as exterior lights, should not be mounted directly to vinyl siding, but on blocks. Fasteners penetrating the siding will restrict the siding’s natural expansion and contraction, causing problems. Any outdoor installation should employ corrosion-resistant fasteners.
Generally, the main concern during is vinyl siding inspection is whether or not it was properly installed. When correctly installed and maintained, vinyl siding is attractive and durable, and can last for years.