Vinyl siding is a popular choice for Calgary homes because it’s
low-maintenance, affordable, and weather-resistant. But if it’s
not installed the right way, it can let water leak into your walls.
This can cause mold, rot, and costly repairs. In this blog, we’ll
explain how to properly install vinyl siding to keep your home dry and safe.
Start With a Solid Base
The initial step is to ensure your wall is flat, clean, and dry.
Uneven or damaged walls may cause gaps between the siding,
through which water can penetrate. A house wrap or weather-resistant
barrier should be applied over the wall sheathing to prevent
moisture penetration. This barrier works as a raincoat for your home.
Apply Flashing Around Doors and Windows
Flashing is a small amount of metal or plastic that serves to direct
water away from specific areas of your house particularly around
windows, doors, and rooflines. It’s highly essential that flashing
is installed correctly before the siding installation. If water
penetrates behind the siding in these locations, flashing serves to
push it back outside, rather than inside your home.
Leave Room for Expansion
Vinyl siding expands and shrinks as the temperature changes. If
nailed too tight, it can warp or crack and let leaks develop.
Always nail in the centre of the nail slot and space about 1/32
inch (the thickness of a dime) between the siding and the nail
head. This allows the panels to expand and contract freely without buckling.
Check After Every Season
Even after installing correctly, it’s wise to check your siding
every season, particularly after a brutal Calgary winter or summer
storm. Check for loose panels, tiny cracks, or water signs around
windows and doors. Catching issues early prevents water from
entering and ruining costly repairs.
Significance of Effective Drainage
Good siding installation is complemented best by good roof and
gutter drainage. If your gutters are clogged or your roof drips
water onto the siding, it can heighten the risk of leaks. Always
clean your gutters and ensure downspouts deliver water away
from the house. This keeps your siding and foundation safe.
Overlap Joints the Right Way
When installing the panels, ensure they overlap properly so that
rain does not find its way between. The top piece should cover
the bottom one, like shingles on a roof. The joints must also be
staggered rather than aligned. This ensures rainwater runs
down the wall rather than seeping into crevices.
Don’t Forget the Starter Strip and J-Channel
The starter strip keeps the bottom course of the siding secure. If
this is not done properly, water can creep behind the siding. J
channels are utilized at corners, windows, and doors to provide a
clean edge for the siding and ensure water drains correctly. These
small details are crucial to preventing leaks.
Seal Gaps and Check Your Work
Although vinyl siding itself is not sealed tight, minor gaps around
trim or edges must be filled with exterior-grade caulk to prevent
wind-driven rain. After installation, inspect your work. Check
for loose panels, gaps, or cut edges that are not flush. These are
potential trouble points when Calgary’s snow or rain hits.
Hire a Professional for Best Results
It takes time, training, and patience to install siding correctly. A
small error will cause huge issues down the line. At Straight Path
Construction, we specialize in installing vinyl siding on Calgary
houses with years of experience. We stick to the right procedure
and use the best materials to avoid leaks and ensure your house is safe.
Final Thought
The most effective way to install vinyl siding and avoid leaks is
to properly prepare the wall, apply flashing, leave space for
movement, and install each strip carefully. Whether you’re
making a small repair or re-siding your entire house, careful
installation is the secret to keeping water out and your house safe.
Call to Action
Ready to replace your siding or repair a leak?
Call Straight Path Construction or go to our website for
professional vinyl siding installation in Calgary. We’ll assist you
in selecting the proper materials and installing them correctly
to make them leak-proof and long-lasting.
