Vinyl siding has become a popular choice for homeowners looking for a durable and low-maintenance option to cover the exterior of their homes. It protects your home from the elements and adds to its aesthetic appeal. Additionally, it offers a degree of insulation. Sometimes that vinyl siding needs to be removed due to cracking or mold to name a few. Let’s learn about removing vinyl siding and some tools you will need as well as following specific steps to remove it so you can add new siding on.
What is Vinyl Siding?
Vinyl siding is a plastic exterior wrapping for a house, intended to resemble traditional wood clapboard, and used instead of other materials like aluminum or fiber cement siding.
How Long Does Vinyl Siding Last?
Typically, vinyl siding can last between 20 to 40 years, depending on factors such as climate, maintenance, and quality of installation.
How to Tell When You Need to Remove Vinyl Siding?
Signs that you may need to remove your vinyl siding include noticeable warping, melting, extensive cracking, or if it has become loose and no longer lies flat against your house.
Materials You Need to Remove Vinyl Siding
Now that you know that you need to remove the siding, here are the tools you will need to gather.
Steps on How to Remove Vinyl Siding
The tools are in place so now on to the process of removal.
- Locate the seam and use the siding zip tool to disconnect two panels.
- Gently pull the panel away from the wall.
- Use the pry bar and hammer to remove nails carefully.
- Repeat the process with each panel until all are removed.
Tips for Removing Siding
It is important to work slowly to avoid damaging underlying materials. You will want to start at the top and work your way down. Then, keep a firm grip on the siding to prevent it from falling.
Cost to Remove Vinyl Siding
The cost can vary widely, but generally, expect to pay between $1,000 to $3,000 for a professional to remove vinyl siding from an average-sized home.
Other Options Instead of Removing the Siding
If you are looking to make the siding look nicer, there are other options
Cleaning: A thorough wash can remove dirt and mold, improving appearance.
Painting: Apply a coat of paint designed for vinyl to give it a fresh look.
Patching: Replace only the damaged sections rather than the whole.
However, if it is damaged, you may need to remove it.
Cost for New Siding
Installing new siding on an average home can range from $5,000 to $14,000, depending on material and labor costs.
Permits and Disposal of Siding
Some localities require a permit for siding installation so check with your local building authority. Also, vinyl siding can be recycled. Contact local waste management or recycling centers to find the proper disposal method in your area.
Other Maintenance
Now that you know about removing siding, there are other areas of preventative maintenance we can take a look at. One of those is how to cut vinyl siding. This can be done by following the steps that are provided. However, if it is too much for you, then calling a professional is a great idea.
Another is filling in gaps in the siding. Sometimes this happens, so you will need to add caulk or expanding foam to fill in the areas.
Lastly, while you are checking out your siding, take a look to make sure that you don’t have termites. It is important to know that there are some predators such as ants, aardvarks, anteaters, some birds, and reptiles.
When Do I Call a Professional?
It may be a good idea to consider hiring a professional if the project’s scope is beyond your DIY skills. Also, if you’re unsure about recognizing asbestos under old siding. Lastly, if the job requires more complex tools than you have.
Here is a great video about replacing damaged vinyl siding.
Conclusion
Removing vinyl siding can refresh your home’s appearance or prepare it for a complete makeover. Whether you choose to DIY or hire a pro, knowing what the job entails helps you make an informed decision. If you feel like the job is too big for you, you have questions, or you also want to have a home inspection, you can call the Bentley Home Inspection team for a home inspection in East Tennessee and surrounding areas.
