DIY: Siding for a Mobile Home
Much of the siding used for mobile homes is vinyl siding, which offers a lot of choice on style the outside of your home. Whether you are putting up siding for the first time or replacing your old siding, if you haven't done it before, the project might seem a little overwhelming. Installing the siding isn't actually very difficult with some instructions and the right tools. Does this Spark an idea?
Starting Out
Be sure you have the siding that you need, plus some extra in case of mistakes. Gather the tools you need, such as a hammer, tin snips, pencil, tape measure, chalk line, and J-Channel. If you are installing insulation on the outside of the home, do this before installing the siding. You can use a wind wrap for this if desired, depending on your climate.
Use the chalk line to mark reference points for the bottom row of siding. Wrap J-Channel around corners, windows, and doors as well as the upper areas where the top row will end. Place it around any other areas where vinyl corners don't work. (Vinyl corners are best where you can use them.)
Siding
Install the siding starting at the bottom. Check to make sure the siding is level, because it is most important that this one is straight. Trim the siding at the bottom if necessary to make it level at the top of that panel. Cut the siding completely flush with the ground. Use the measuring tape for more accurate cuts.
Install the second row by snapping it into place with the first. Nail the top of the second row to secure it into place. Don't hammer the nails in too tightly because the material will need to expand and contract according to the temperatures. Stagger the panels on the sides of the home so the seams do not meet on subsequent rows. Repeat this process with the next rows each time, slipping the siding into the J-Channel. When you reach the top, trim the siding for a snug fit and use the clips and crimping tool to fix it into place.
Finishing Touches
If there are any places that serve as obstacles to the siding, cut holes in the vinyl to make room for them. This includes such things as electrical outlets or vents.
Do not nail the siding that fits under the J-Channel at doors, windows or eaves. Simply leave it the way it is. Add any trim to the eaves that you might want to place for decorative or protective purposes.
Tags: into place, areas where, chalk line, Mobile Home, Siding Mobile