Can you install new siding over existing siding?

01/15/2023, 17:24 PM

Can you install new siding over your existing siding? 

If you’re looking to replace the siding on your home, you may be wondering if you can simply install new siding over the old siding instead of having to strip it all off. The short answer is 50/50 — you can install new siding over old (WOOD), but there are a few conditions you’ll have to stick to if you want your new siding to last.

The first step is to make sure that your old siding is in good condition — you’ll want to check for cracks, holes, or other damage. If your old siding is cracked or distressed/rotting, it’s best to get it replaced rather than trying to patch it up with the new siding. Additionally, you’ll have to ensure that your old siding is structurally sound. You’ll want to look for signs of water damage, mold, rot, or general wear and tear — all of these things will need to be taken into full consideration.   I always explain the “unseen” to all our clients which is referred to as what is behind the current siding.  We cannot physically see it unless we tear the old siding off.  Generally if there is a condition we will spot it up front.  

Existing siding we do not recommend installing over are vinyl, aluminum, and fiber cement.  It’s paramount that we have a flat surface behind our new siding and remove old layers of materials where water can collect and mold with extended time.  When we remove all the old siding down to the plywood,, we can ensure no water damage number one, replace if there is, wrap the existing wall with house wrap or an insulation, then install new siding efficiently. We can get the detail right every time we do this and add our clients an assurance at a low-risk.  

An important detail we talk about up front is what the trim details will look like if we do not tear the old siding off.  When we add a new vinyl siding over a wood siding, we are making the wall thicker causing it to stick out past the existing trim.  If we walked away from the detail this way, we allow an easy access point for water to flow behind the siding and it aesthetically does not look correct.  The proper setup is usually an option of padding out the old trim with 2x4 lumber,  wrapping it with an architectural aluminum, then adding J channel trim to wrap the siding into it.  This step is usually mandatory for us to warranty the product and assure you no future water leaks.  We can find a cost saving by not tearing the siding which is usually the first reason, once we add in the new details at times it’s a small price difference when you look at the big picture.  

HS Exteriors LLC has an experienced team of professionals ready to assist you with your project. If you are ready to make the next step reach out to our team at (603) 722-1988. Cheers!