Aluminum siding is both an aesthetically pleasing and practical choice for homes and buildings. It offers excellent durability and resistance to fire and the weather. It provides protection to your exterior wall against rain, snow, and strong sunlight. Given these benefits, aluminum panels are widely popular. They are also easy to repair and don’t rust if scratched. They are also lightweight and easy to install.
If you want to install aluminum siding yourself, you can do so using a few tools and materials. This guide gives you insights into a basic siding installation process.
1. Preparation
Make sure to put on gloves and safety glasses before you begin the preparation process. Next, follow these steps to prepare for the installation:
- Mount the siding pieces that will run along the top and sides of the window covers and doors.
- Add a layer of protective foam along the sides of the doors and windows
- Place the aluminum on top and cut with a saw to fit the openings
- Use screws or nails to hang the siding
- Screws should be added in a straight line to cover the siding
Mount the larger aluminum panels along the door and window cover sides or any openings.
2. Add the Remaining Panels
Hang the remaining panels around your house using screws. It is best to use rustproof or weatherproof metal screws or nails. It is recommended to add a metal strip around the sides to protect the ends. Follow these tips to fix the panels:
- Hook the panel bottom under the building
- Use nails to fix the panels in place
- If there is no lower lip, use a metal strip and a nail gun to nail the lower panel in place
Repeat this process to cover all the sides with aluminum siding.
3. Adding Layer of Aluminum Trimming
Once the aluminum siding is installed, it is recommended to add a layer of aluminum trimming to the panel edges. You will require some help to hold the panel when adding the trim. It can also be done afterward. The trimming can be trailed around the edges of your home along the panel top and bottom. It is recommended to nail the trimming at a gap of approximately an inch.
Benefits of Aluminum Siding
Aluminum siding panels are available in both vertical and horizontal formats. This gives you greater freedom with regard to the design. There are many benefits of using aluminum for your side that make it such a popular material option. Some of the most notable benefits are as follows:
- Heat Insulation: Aluminum is known for its excellent insulating properties. Installing aluminum siding insulates your home better than most other options. You can save a lot on your heating cooling costs over time.
- Corrosion Resistance: The siding doesn’t get damaged by weather conditions. Its corrosion-resistant properties also make aluminum the ideal material for coastal areas where there is regular exposure to moisture and salt spray in the air. It doesn’t rot like wood or rust like steel. Besides, it will also protect your home against water.
- Lightweight: Aluminum is extremely lightweight. This makes it easier to work with and install.
Aluminum can withstand the extreme cold better than vinyl, which could become brittle. It is also insect-proof and recyclable. Besides, you can choose from a wide range of patterns and textures, even in faux wood designs.
Thus, there are many reasons for choosing aluminum siding for your home or any other building. It is recommended to choose a brand that offers excellent quality and can last longer. A little research can go a long way in helping you get the most out of your investment.
