Avoid Dreaded Ripples In Vinyl Siding

Vinyl siding is one of the best exterior products you can use on your home; it is attractive, durable, and very low maintenance. Most of the problems that can occur with vinyl siding are not due to the siding itself, but are instead the result of inexperienced or faulty installations.

DIY Vinyl Siding Installation Tips for Reducing the Ripple Effect

You may have noticed vinyl sided homes with the ripple effect. It is usually most obvious on a side of the home without a lot of windows and doors. As you gaze down that side, you may notice the vinyl siding seems to be buckled and rippled, or that it seems to move in and out.

One of the easiest ways to prevent the ripple effect is to use a vinyl siding with a thicker gauge or with insulated backing. These options have a little more rigidity, which can help keep it straight and smooth. Other ways to reduce the ripple effect during DIY installation include:

Inspecting your exterior sheathing prior to installing siding. Use a 6-foot level or string line to find any bowed framing members. Any protrusions by framing members may be exaggerated by vinyl siding.
Nailing each siding piece in the center of nailing slots and leaving about 1/16 inch between the head of the nail and the siding so the vinyl can expand and contract.
Allow about a 1/4 inch between the ends of siding pieces and where they contact J-channels, corner posts, or any other trim.
Never nail directly through a piece of siding.

Avoid Dreaded Ripples In Vinyl Siding

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