Need to repair or fix a hole in vinyl siding? If you’re feeling the DIY bug, but not sure exactly how to go about actually fixing your siding, CLAD Siding is here to help! With the following guide, you’ll gain the knowledge to confidently repair the exterior of your home!

Examining the Damage

A hole can be caused by a multitude of issues – extreme weather, fallen tree branches, impact from a vehicle or person, and so on. Fortunately, patching a hole in vinyl siding is a fairly straightforward project.

First, you’ll need to examine the extent of the damage. If you’re dealing with a small hole, that’s the easiest fix. Larger holes (or multiple holes) will require a different approach. Most of the time, you’ll be able to just patch it using standard tools. But in some cases, it might require the replacement of multiple siding panels.

Keep in mind that if you choose to fill in the hole, the most difficult task will be to blend it with the surrounding vinyl color. Also, you’ll need to have siding panels handy for more extensive damage. Try to obtain these from the same manufacturer (in the same shade, if possible).

Below you’ll find the various ways to address your particular situation.

Steps To Repair Vinyl Siding

From small holes to extensive damage, there’s a solution to any vinyl siding challenge. If you’re handy with tools and have spare time, you can save some money by doing it yourself. Here are the four major ways to repair vinyl siding.

Repair a Small Hole

A small hole in vinyl siding can not only be unsightly, but it can also cause further damage. A hole in your siding, no matter the size, can allow moisture and water to get behind the paneling. This can wreak havoc, leading to more costly repairs and replacements in the future. Better to jump on it as soon as possible. Don’t wait!

Here are the steps to fix a small hole:

  1. Use tinted or paintable caulk to fill the hole. It should overflow.
  1.     Allow the caulk to properly cure (this typically takes a few days).
  2.     Utilizing a razor blade or utility knife, trim down the caulk so that it’s flush.
  3.     If not using tinted caulk, paint in order to blend in with the siding color.

If the small hole is up high, use either a ladder or scaffolding. Practice constant safety. Make sure that your ladder or scaffolding is level and secure. If you use a ladder, place it against the house to provide extra stability.

Repair Medium Hole

This process is a little different than patching a small hole.

Here are the steps to repair a medium hole:

  1.     Unlock siding with a zip tool (can be purchased for cheap online or at store).
  2.     Access the backside and place a piece of foil tape behind the hole.
  3.     Lock the damaged siding panel back in place.
  4.     Fill hole with tinted or paintable caulk (to overflow point).
  5.     Allow drying for a few days.
  6.     Trim down so it’s flush with the siding.
  7.     If not tinted, paint accordingly.

Repair Large Hole

Again, this requires some additional steps compared to small and medium holes.

Here are the steps to fix a large hole:

  1.     Get your hands on a piece of matching siding.
  2.     Cut out a section that is larger than the hole.
  3.     Make sure to cut off the nailing hole on the replacement piece.
  4.     Hold up the piece to the hole and do final trimming to fit.
  5.     Using constructive adhesive, attach the piece over the hole.

Repair Extensive Damage

Sometimes, you’ll need to replace a full panel or multiple siding panels.

Before you get started, you’ll need to gather some items. These include:

  • Siding panels (try to get from the original manufacturer)
  • Hammer and/or pry bar
  • Zip tool
  • Carpenter’s nails
  • Framing square
  • Utility knife
  • Tape measurer
  • Pincer pliers
  • Ladder (or scaffolding, which can be rented)

Here are the steps to replace siding:

  1.     First, you’ll need to remove the siding.
  2.     Start at one end of the siding and place the zip tool under the bottom lip of the siding.
  3.     Once you feel it lock in, pull down and out. Slide zip tool along siding to unlock it.
  4.     Repeat this step on any other pieces of siding that need to be replaced.
  5.     Remove nails in the top portion of the siding.
  6.     Use a flat bar or the claw of a hammer to remove nails.
  7.     When dealing with stubborn nails, use a carpenter’s pincer pliers.
  8.     Next, the actual replacement of siding.
  9.     Make sure to source siding of the same size (preferably from the same manufacturer).
  10. Starting from the bottom going up, measure the first length of the siding.
  11. Use a framing square and utility knife to cut a new piece.
  12. Place siding in the location, pushing up until the bottom lip locks into the existing piece.
  13. Once locked in, drive carpenter nails into the nail flange of the upper portion.
  14. Space nails about 16 inches apart. Leave 1/32 inch of space so siding can move freely.
  15. It’s important to not nail too tightly. This can cause buckling.
  16. Then use a zip tool to lock the upper piece into place.
  17. Pull the lip down and slide the zip tool along while using your other hand to push it into place.
  18. Complete one row of siding before starting on the next one.
  19. Repeat the previous steps until you’re finished.
  20. If you have to replace a lot of siding, a dumpster rental might come in handy.

Though not technically difficult, repairing or replacing can be time-consuming. If you’re not comfortable with using tools or working with your hands, you can always get a hold of a professional siding contractor. Don’t risk it if you’re not feeling up to the task.

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Need a pro? Whether you’re in need of a repair or full installation, CLAD Siding makes it super simple & affordable to find a vinyl siding contractor near you. Click here to find a licensed, insured, and trustworthy contractor today!