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Note: As a side effect of the COVID-19 pandemic, there has been an unprecedented labor shortage in the first half of 2021. At the same time, the demand for materials and construction work has soared. Therefore, the price of materials may be higher than the prices reported in this article, and the delivery time of labor and materials may be longer than usual.

Proper installation of siding is essential to prevent outdoor weather from affecting your house. Installing metal siding is no exception. Metal siding is a durable way to protect your home while adding a modern style.

There are many styles to choose from. Many of them can be installed horizontally or vertically for more options. Different types of installation steps may be slightly different. In most cases, no matter which style and direction you choose, the installation usually follows the following steps.

The installation of metal siding can be done at any time of the year. It is most comfortable when the temperature is moderate. Avoid installing during rain or snow. If it rains during your project, please let the site dry thoroughly before proceeding. Water behind the siding can damage the house and require expensive repairs.

Follow all safety procedures regarding the use of ladders. If you decide to use a scaffolding system, please make sure that the parts are assembled correctly and all the hardware is in good working condition. Using a fall protection belt is never a bad idea.

Cutting metal siding will produce sharp edges. It is recommended to use thick gloves and goggles when cutting and handling siding.

If you have to work near the power line connected to the side of the house, please be extra careful.

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Learning how to install metal siding seemed overwhelming at first. First discuss the available categories with your retailer. Discuss fastening methods and any specific instructions for specific styles. In addition, the discussion may be the unique decoration style of the product line.

Prices between product lines, metal types and finishes can vary greatly. If cost is the decisive factor, keep this in mind.

Once you master this knowledge and choose the product you want to use, you can start using it. Although this is a difficult job, the required skills are very basic and easy to learn.

Most municipalities require a building permit to carry out siding works. Before starting, be sure to obtain all necessary local permits. Check any HOA rules (if they apply).

In most cases, any existing siding needs to be removed before installing a new siding. In some cases, old siding can be left in place, but this is not common. In either case, first check the exterior of the house. Fill any holes, gaps or cracks found.

Cut the top edge of each door and window to the width and add a one-inch drip cap. Use a continuous piece for each position. Let the lid dangle half an inch from the opening on both sides. Cut and bend the edges to create drip sheets. Use external decorative nails or wall plate screws to install carefully.

Start at the lowest level of the house. Using a ladder and a nail hammer, staple the staples along the top of the long, continuous house wrapper. Add staples to the remaining edges and fields. Use approximately one staple per linear foot on the edge and one staple per two to three square feet on site. Repeat this step until you reach the eaves. Overlap the lower wrapping layer by no less than six inches.

Use house parcel sealing tape to glue the seams where the house parcel edges overlap. Also stick tape along the top of the windows and doors, where the packaging is connected to the drip cap. The goal is to create a complete vapor barrier envelope.

Mark a horizontal line on the bottom edge of the future siding. Install the bottom trim along this line. Cut the corners at a 45-degree angle and secure with wall plate screws every 12 inches. Use silicone caulk to seal the seam where the two pieces meet. The trim extends to the additional housing packaging below the trim.

According to the product, cut the j-channel or c-channel for all sides of each door and window opening. Include enough material when cutting to allow overlapping and draining pieces as needed. This step is almost the same as the j-channel installation method of vinyl siding.

Starting from one of the bottom corners, install the metal siding according to the manufacturer's guidelines and cut where needed. Pay special attention to the spacing and overlap requirements at the corners. At the opening, slide the wall plate into the j slot. Fastening usually requires the use of wall screws and sometimes special fastening clips. The distance between the screw and the clamp depends on the product you are using. Regularly check the level and plumb installation.

Tip: You can use general-purpose tin shears to cut metal siding. Renting or buying electric or pneumatic metal scissors will make your project easier and faster.

If necessary, overlap the corner trims by at least four inches and apply silicone caulk to the joints. Tighten according to the manufacturer's recommendations. Certain types of metal siding require the use of double-sided butyl tape at the corner joints. If so, use tape and peel-off adhesive only after "dry loading" the corners.

Apply silicone caulk or product-specific sealant to each door, window, or other opening where the j-channel intersects the structure.

Safety first is a good rule. If there is a place that requires siding that is too dangerous to reach, or cannot be reached at all, hire a siding or building contractor with the appropriate equipment to reach it.

Installing metal siding is a large and time-consuming task. If you can't invest a lot of time, a siding contractor with a team of installers can do it in a fraction of the time required by an ordinary DIYer.

Anytime you work outside the house is a good time to check whether the house is damaged. If you find spots of decay, water stains, or pest activity, please call an appropriate professional for treatment before covering with siding.

Deane is a veteran in the contracting, renovation, maintenance and home repair industry for more than 30 years. His experience ranges from licensed construction contracting to ownership of property maintenance companies. Currently operating home repair and DIY consulting services, he empowers his clients to be self-sufficient in their home repair and renovation work.

Samantha is an editor, covering all home-related topics, including home improvement and maintenance. She has edited home repair and design content on websites such as The Spruce and HomeAdvisor. She also hosted videos about DIY home tips and solutions, and launched a number of home improvement review committees equipped with licensed professionals.