How can you repair holes in vinyl siding caused by storm damage?

– Tom

Vinyl siding is both tough and durable; but like most building materials, it can sustain damage from storms and extreme weather. There are several ways to repair damaged vinyl siding, depending on the extent of the damage.

  • Repairing Small Holes: Squirt a generous dollop of exterior caulking that matches the color of the siding into the hole. Allow it to completely dry, then use a razor scraper to cut the excess caulk flush with the outside of the siding. If you can’t find caulking that matches, fill the hole with paintable caulk, then paint over it with exterior, acrylic latex paint after it has cured.
 
  • Repairing Larger Holes: Use a siding zip tool (available at home centers) to unlock the damaged siding at the bottom. Place foil tape on the back side of the siding to cover the hole, and lock the siding back in place. Fill the hole with a thin coat of color matched caulking, or paint the caulking to match the siding color as described above.
 
  • Repairing Large Holes or Cracks: Use a utility knife to cut the nailing strip off the top of a piece of matching siding that’s larger than the hole or crack, then attach it on top of the damaged piece with construction adhesive. Another option is to use the zip tool to remove the damaged piece of vinyl siding, and replace it with a new piece.

Since it may be hard to match existing siding, it’s a good idea to ask the installer for a few extra pieces and scraps to keep on hand for future repairs.

Good luck with your project,


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Danny Lipford

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Danny Lipford is a home improvement expert and television personality who started his remodeling business, Lipford Construction, at the age of 21 in Mobile, Alabama. He gained national recognition as the host of the nationally syndicated television show, Today's Homeowner with Danny Lipford, which started as a small cable show in Mobile. Danny's expertise in home improvement has also led him to be a contributor to popular magazines and websites and the go-to source for advice on everything related to the home. He has made over 200 national television appearances and served as the home improvement expert for CBS's The Early Show and The Weather Channel for over a decade. Danny is also the founder of 3 Echoes Content Studio, TodaysHomeowner.com, and Checking In With Chelsea, a décor and lifestyle blog.

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