Learn the Right Way to Install Vinyl Siding Over Your Concrete Block Garage

An attractive and sturdy garage is the dream of any homeowner. Covering the garage’s concrete block wall with something more aesthetically pleasing than concrete blocks is one way to achieve this dream. One way to do this is to install vinyl siding. Vinyl siding is relatively inexpensive, and with the right instructions, tools and materials, you should be able to install it with little trouble. Follow these steps to install vinyl siding over a concrete block garage.

Begin by marking your wall for drill holes. Be sure to mark them plumb and evenly spaced for accuracy. Give special attention to the vertical line that will represent the center of the first furring strip. Measure 16 inches from the center line for the center of the second furring strip. Continue to mark your lines by keeping the 16-inch space in mind.

Next, use a masonry or carbide drill bit to drill holes into the wall. The size of the drill bit should be the same size as that of the sleeve anchors that you’ll be using. After drilling, use a shop vacuum or air hose to clean the dust and debris from the holes.

Attach the furring strip to the wall using the sleeve anchors. Start with the strip marked at the center of the first vertical line. Put the strip in place and drill a hole at the top. Insert a sleeve anchor, and tighten it enough to hold the strip in place. Drill more holes in the strip that match up with the corresponding holes in the wall and insert the sleeve anchors.

Snap a horizontal line at the lowest point on the wall and begin with the starter strip. Attach the starter strip and corner pieces to the furring strips. After that, attach the J-channel pieces around windows and sloped eves.

To begin the installation of the panels, start with the first course at the starter strip. Nail the panel to the base by driving nails through the prefabricated nail slots. Laps of the panels should be 1 inch. Remove any excess panels at windows and doors with tin snips. Stagger seams of the vinyl siding at least 4 inches apart. To cut the end panels and attach them to the sloped J-channel, use your tin snips.

Punch lugs into the top of the siding at 16-inch intervals with a snap-lock tool. Make sure to complete all these steps before finishing the installation with trim and accessories. Following these steps, you should have a durable, attractive garage that you can be proud of.