Learn crucial aluminum siding repair techniques so you might tackle dents and patch holes yourselfno pro required.
This tutorial shows you both techniques.
Be aware that metal corner caps are sometimes used instead of corner posts for aluminum siding.
Credit: Kritsada
In older installations, they were often used forwood or hardboard lap siding.
Also, know thataluminum siding can and should be painted.
Scrape any flaking paint, and sand smooth.
Pressure-wash and allow the siding to dry.
Apply an alcohol or oil-based primer thinned with 2 cups of thinner per gallon of primer.
Most repairswill take less than an hour, and you’ll only need simple cutting andmeasuring skills.
Cut Patch
Cut a patch 4 inches longer than the damage and cut off the nailing flange.
Test the fit; the patch should just slip under the siding above.
Apply Caulk
Applybeads of butyl caulkon each side of the patch area and around the hole.
Press the patch into place.
Use duct tape to hold it in placewhile the caulk dries.
If part of the damaged area protrudes, tap with a hammer to indent it slightly.
Apply Auto-Body Filler
Scrape andsand any loose paint.
Clean with amild detergentsolution, rinse and allow to dry thoroughly.
When it dries, use ahand sanderto smooth the patch.Prime and paint.
Regular maintenance and occasional repairs may be necessary to keep your siding looking smart.
The beauty of siding is that you could repair small sections while leaving the rest intact.
If you should probably remove large sections, start at the top and work your way down.
Remove the nails or screws carefully to preserve the sections you pull for reattachment or future patches.
If you have significant areas in need of repair, fix those areas before cleaning your siding.
Otherwise, the water from your pressure washer or hose could leak behind the siding and cause permanent damage.
With proper installation and maintenance, aluminum siding can last 20 to 30 years.
If your aluminum siding is rusted, in disrepair, or several decades old, it should be replaced.
