Aluminum siding is one of the most popular types of external cladding for homes. It is affordable, easy to install, easy to maintain, and now comes in various colors to suit many homes.
While it is a low-maintenance material, it is prone to different kinds of damage. For instance, aluminum siding can be dented by a simple hard knock. Keep your house’s siding in top shape with these tips on how to repair aluminum siding.
Repair Dents on Siding
Step 1: Take a No. 6 self-tapping screw and drive it into the deepest area of the dent. Use locking pliers to pull the screw until the dent is in effect pulled part of the way. Before doing this, however, make several holes (1/8-inch in size) in the dented section if there’s a bigger dent. The holes will allow the filling compound to adhere firmly.
Step 2: Sand the dent area until it is bare. Using a wide putty knife, apply auto body filler.
Step 3: Smooth out the dent area. Use medium-grit sandpaper to work down the area until it is even and smooth or flush with the rest of the area. Then, paint with a matching color paint that is suitable for aluminum siding.
Replace Damaged Corner Caps
Your project to repair aluminum siding will not be complete if you don’t check the corner edge caps of the siding, which are also prone to damages. Here’s how to replace them:
Step 1: Take off all the damaged corner caps. Use a pry bar to remove the nails underneath.
Step 2: Put in the replacement caps. Beginning at the lowest end, insert the new cap beneath the bottom edge of the cap above it. Nail down the replacement with aluminum nails. Repeat until the last cap is installed.
Step 3: Seal the caps. When you reach the final cap, use a utility knife to cut the nailing strip off the top. Apply some silicone sealant on the backside of the cap; insert it under the edge of the side strip. Press down.
Keep Your Siding Well-Maintained
The steps above should make it easy for you to repair simple aluminum siding problems. However, anytime you require professional help for complicated siding repairs, TalkLocal offers a free service to quickly match you with qualified service providers in your area. Contact us now to speak with the right professionals in minutes!
Tags: Repair Aluminum Siding
