As siding contractors in Denver, we’ve heard this question far too often.
The simple answer is: your vinyl siding is warping because it was installed wrong. Too many inexperienced siding contractors unfortunately don’t understand that vinyl siding has specific installation requirements that allow for expansion and contraction. Unfortunately, repair and replacement of these improperly installed panels is all on you, the homeowner.
If you suspect that you may have siding that has been wrongly installed, a quick and simple test can clear up the mystery for you. Because vinyl siding is meant to hang on its connective hardware and not be nailed into the building itself, there should be a little play in the way that it hangs. By grabbing a panel you should be able to move it slightly, about 1/4 to 1/2 inch, from side to side. If you can’t, it was nailed to tightly and is vulnerable to buckling.
Once vinyl siding buckles, it can’t be repaired. To fix the issue, the questionable or damaged panels have to be replaced as warped vinyl siding pieces will continue to hold that shape. With this in mind, your siding experts should recommend the additional purchase of extra siding when it is first installed. Having extra lengths on hand will make the replacement of damaged pieces an easy and affordable DIY fix.
To avoid the problem, deal only with siding contractors in Denver that understand the specific installation requirements of vinyl siding. Before hiring a contractor, find out what other projects they’ve completed in the area and try to inspect that project as closely as possible. Make sure that it is not a new project as you’ll need to determine how well the siding has held up during the drastic changes in seasons that Colorado can bring. During installation, while the crew is onsite, check how they’ve installed the first few rows of vinyl to find out if they pass the above test.
