Vinyl Siding Expansion

Vinyl siding is designed to be flexible which allows for some expansion and contraction.

Vinyl siding expansion.

Vinyl siding must be nailed so expansion and contraction are not restricted. How to stagger vinyl siding joints. Vinyl siding expands and contracts with temperature changes therefore it is important to allow extra room for expansion in order to prevent the siding from buckling. The sun and heat can cause the vinyl siding to grow or expand.

Siding must be cut in lengths to provide for expansion. A waterproof barrier is installed over the sheathing and under the siding which keeps out moisture. To avoid structural or aesthetic problems associated with temperature fluctuation take the following steps. Allow a 1 4 in.

Space the fasteners a maximum of 16 406mm apart for horizontal siding panels every 12 305mm for vertical siding panels and every 8 to 12. Leave an extra 1 4 inch 0 6 cm gap between siding panels and any accessories. There is an almost endless variety of designs sizes textures and colors to choose from. Although the manufacturers are getting better vinyl installs behaves and performs much differently than the natural material it mimics.

Allowing for expansion and contraction. Drive fasteners straight and level to prevent distortion and buckling of the panel fig. Center the fasteners in the slots to permit expansion and contraction of the siding fig. Whereas wood moves in response to moisture content vinyl moves in response to temperature changes.

Vinyl siding will buckle due to thermal expansion if it is not properly installed. If you nail it too tightly then it will bubble and bow on a hot day. Because of this it isn t sealed tight to keep out water. Wind can cause the vinyl siding to rattle.

Vinyl siding is found on a large percentage of homes built today. If you nail too loosely the vinyl siding will rattle and flap as the wind blows. Buckled vinyl siding due to thermal expansion improper nailing. Vinyl siding manufacturers try hard to make their panels look like real wood.

Properly installed vinyl siding here means proper placement of siding nails not over nailing too tightly and allowing proper end clearance at single piece siding runs to allow for thermal expansion. Gap for expansion wherever siding butts accessories. Allow for expansion and contraction. When installing in freezing weather below 40.

For these reasons it s vitally important that vinyl siding is nailed properly.