Professionals can install siding on a home in a day or two. While this is true, the professionals may spend a bit more time on the actual preparation for the job. Keep reading to learn about a few important aspects of the preparation process so you can understand exactly how a vinyl professional will make sure that your home looks beautiful for decades.
House Wrapping
The exterior of your home must be fully exposed before new vinyl can be secured. This means removing old siding, furring strips, and the home wrap. A new house wrap must be installed to ensure that a seal is created where water cannot penetrate into the home. While tar paper was once used for this purpose, synthetic materials are now utilized due to their breathable nature. This material comes in ultra-lightweight sheets that can be easily applied and wrapped around one another to seal the home.
The house wrapping can occur a few weeks before the actual install of the vinyl siding, so the job is often completed in advance and in preparation for the siding job.
You should know that once the wrapping material is installed, your contractors can then start working on flashing. Flashing is used to direct water away from any and all openings to make sure the moisture is channeled away from your house. Flashing is placed over the wrapping and is added around windows and eaves. If your windows are older and have gaps around the edges, then some caulk may be added too. You can work to have additional installation added to the home at this time as well.
Furring Strips or Boards
Vinyl pieces require an absolutely flat surface. This prevents the siding from bowing or bending. Also, a flat area allows for proper install of the horizontal siding attachments. Since the base of the house is covered with wrapping and insulation, your contractor must place rigid sheathing. This is accomplished through the placement of wide two by fours, long furring strips, particle board, or strand board.
Your contractor may give you options on the type of sheathing installation. In general, you want the most secure material, meaning that thicker and wider board materials are the best choice. They also offer the smoothest surface to ensure an even installation of siding.
Keep in mind that even if you go for the board installation, your contractor may need to still add some furring strips to areas that need the added bulk. This is something that you may see around windows and doors. Learn more about siding installation today.
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