Repairing Popped Siding Panels

Siding panels are a relatively light, strong, and affordable type of siding. Some panels are made to resemble materials ranging from shingles to stucco, while others are available in a variety of finishes, including smooth surfaced, rough-sawn, and grooved every 4 or 8 inches to resemble planks. They are easy to install (at least on the first floor) because each sheet covers so much area.

Although the panel surface is coated with stain or paint for appearance and protection against the weather, the edges of the panel are often not coated. This is the weak link with panel siding - the thin layers of plywood laminations are exposed to all types of weather conditions. A buildup of moisture can delaminate the panel leading to a number of repair problems, the most common of which is popped nails. This is why priming the edges of the panels prior to installation is so important. In addition it is also important to caulk or add flashing to the seams around windows and doors or where one panel rests on top of another.

Spot repairs can be made in a manner that blends in with the remaining siding but if the damage is major or there is veneer failure, you will have to replace it. Buy the new panels to match the thickness of the existing panels and before installing them cover them with a primer that is compatible with the final finish. Paint or stain the replacement panels as soon as possible to protect them from the weather.

1) Check for damage
Where panel seams have popped, pull out the nails using a crowbar or hammer (Fig. 1). Look behind the panel to check for water damage underneath.