The Rehab Guide, Volume 2: Exterior Walls - ToolBase Services

FIGURE 2ON-SITE ROLL FORMING2. REPAIR METAL SIDING.The replacement of metal panels is relatively simple: 1. Cut the damaged panel along its center with a utilityknife or metal shears. Remove and discard the bottom section; 2. Cut and remove the top lock or a newpanel; 3. Apply a heavy bead of Gutterseal (Alcoa or other brand) the full length of the defective panel; 4.Install the new panel over the Gutterseal. Apply pressure with the palm of the hand. Do not nail the panel.(Fig. 1)ADVANTAGES: Repair is relatively simple procedure.DISADVANTAGES: Color of replacement will not match original.3. REPLACE EXISTING SIDING WITH STEEL SIDING.Considered by some in the industry to be one of the highest performing siding products on the marketbecause of its resistance to cracking, bending, high winds, and high temperatures, steel continues to havea strong niche market. Steel can be placed directly over existing siding materials, over insulated sheathingon top of existing material, or attached to furring strips placed on masonry or uneven walls. It typicallycomes in 12-foot lengths and panel widths of double 4 or 5-inch exposures, with a PVC or acrylicfinish. A number of companies, such as ABC Seamless, provide seamless steel siding through franchisedinstallers. It is roll-formed on site to eliminate vertical joints (Fig. 2).ADVANTAGES: One of the strongest and most damage-resistant siding products available; lays flat andstraight against most substrates; color finishes warranted against fading and peeling; noncombustible; canbe touched up with paint.DISADVANTAGES: Approximately double the cost of standard vinyl siding; 30 percent more expensive thanaluminum siding. Fewer profiles, styles, colors, trim, and accessories than vinyl siding.4. REPLACE EXISTING SIDING WITH ALUMINUM SIDING.Aluminum continues to have some niche market appeal, although its use is diminishing. Aluminum sidingis typically available in 12-foot lengths and panel widths of double 4 or 5-inch exposures, with a PVC oracrylic finish. The most popular color is white, but a limited color palette is available. Like steel siding,aluminum can be applied directly over wood-sided walls that are sound and straight, over insulated siding,and over furring strips.ADVANTAGES: Lays straight over most substrates; less likely to show waviness than vinyl siding; lightweight,noncombustible, durable, and easy to clean.DISADVANTAGES: More costly than vinyl; dents relatively easily; comes in limited styles and colors.50