How to Repair Home Siding

If only a small area of vinyl or aluminum siding is damaged, it can be repaired, and the whole piece will not need replacing. This will allow a homeowner to save money.

Things You'll Need

• Plywood
• Pencil and paper
• Measuring tape
• One quart to one gallon of paint
• Paint brushes in different sizes
• Electric or hand saw
• Hammer or screwdriver
• Nails or wood screws
• Foam sealant or caulk

Instructions

1. Measure the area that needs repairing; write the numbers down on a piece of paper.

2. Purchase enough plywood to ensure there will be a sufficient amount for the repair. Usually, one sheet will be plenty.

3. Purchase paint in the same color or shade as the original siding; purchase at least one medium to large paintbrush and one small paintbrush.

4. Cut the plywood slightly larger than the area to be repaired. This will give a neater, less “patched” appearance.

5. Paint the piece that will be used for the repair; allow it to dry thoroughly.

6. Fit the repair piece over the damaged area; fasten loosely with nails or wood screws.

7. Step back a few feet and observe the area. If the overlap is too noticeable, remove the screws or nails, trim the repair piece as needed (or cut a new piece), and re-attach it loosely.

8. Repeat Step 7 until you are satisfied with how the repair looks.

9. Repeat all steps as needed to complete all repairs.

10. Use a small paintbrush to cover nail or screw heads and make any touch-ups as needed.

11. If the only damage to the home siding is a small hole, foam sealant or even caulk can be used to fill in the hole. Once is has dried, foam sealant can be smoothed and painted; caulk can be painted over once it has set.

Tips & Warnings

• Purchase a few more supplies than you will need. They can be used again, and you will have enough in case you need to make corrections.

• Shop around for the best prices on plywood and other supplies. This is another way you can save money.

• Plywood often has a wood grain pattern all its own. Study the way your siding looks, or, if possible, take a small piece with you. You may be pleasantly surprised at how close a match you can make.

• Observe normal precautions when using hand or power tools. Use appropriate protective equipment, eyewear, and other items as needed.

• Be aware of electrical and plumbing wires, pipes and lines, as well as heating and air conditioning ductwork or other materials. Damage or the danger of fire can result if nails or screws penetrate them.

• Stand only on proper height-adjustment equipment such as stepladders or stools. Do not use chairs, overturned cans or buckets or other less-sturdy items.