How to Repair a Section of Exterior Composite Siding

Info

Exterior composite siding is made from sawdust or wood chip fibers mixed with glue and bonded together using heat and high pressure. Some composite boards are formed with the addition of Portland cement to help ward off termite infestation. Composite siding is designed to last much longer than standard wood planks.

Repair a Section of Exterior Composite Siding

When installed and maintained properly, they offer complete protection from the elements. Repairing or replacing damaged composite siding yourself can save hundreds in contractor fees and prevent damage to the interior of your home.

Things You Will Need

+
  • Protective eye-wear
  • Hammer
  • Siding nails
  • Flat pry bar
  • Hacksaw
  • Small section of two by four
  • Putty knife
  • Whisk broom
  • Filler compound
  • Medium or small grain sandpaper
  • Jigsaw
  • Tape measure
  • Replacement composite siding plank

Tip

Avoid hitting the composite siding board directly with the hammer. It will buckle or break with too much force.

Warning

Avoid stacking things against siding. Damage can occur with minimal pressure placed against composite siding.

Wear protective eye-wear when using a jigsaw.

  • Remove any damaged composite planks by using a flat pry bar to loosen the nails that are holding them to the outside wall. If the siding board is missing, simply cut the nails using a hacksaw.

  • Measure and cut the new board the needed width. Allow ¼ of an inch for clearance between the new and adjoining composite siding boards.

  • Push the new composite board upwards into position. Lower it evenly across 3/8 of an inch and secure with a nail on each side, at the top.

  • Hold a small length of two by four under the bottom of the new siding plank. Hit the two by four with a hammer in an upwards motion to drive the board up into position. This will flush the plank to the adjoining ones without causing damage to the composite siding. The nails will be hidden beneath the layer of siding above. Brush on a mixture of baking soda and water if the newer paint needs to match a slightly older, faded color.

  • Use a screwdriver and a small whisk broom to clean any loose debris from holes in the composite siding board. Carefully remove any small pieces from the hole.

  • Fill smaller holes with filling compound using a small putty knife. Filling compound can be purchased at stores such as Lowe's or Wal-Mart. Larger holes and area damage will require adding multiple layers of filler compound. Follow label instructions and allow adequate drying time between the layers.

  • Sand filled area with a medium to fine grade sandpaper after it is completely dry. Paint or finish the repaired area to match the surrounding siding as close as possible.

    • The Drip Cap

    • Exterior composite siding is made from sawdust or wood chip fibers mixed with glue and bonded together using heat and high pressure.
    • Some composite boards are formed with the addition of Portland cement to help ward off termite infestation.
    • Remove any damaged composite planks by using a flat pry bar to loosen the nails that are holding them to the outside wall.
    • Hit the two by four with a hammer in an upwards motion to drive the board up into position.
    • The nails will be hidden beneath the layer of siding above.

    ncG1vNJzZmign6KytMDEmpuyZpOkunB9km1obW1obHypu9Zmq6hlopq9orXRZphmq5WYwaq7zWamn2WVrcGmvsioqWabn6K9sL%2FIrZxmq5mZtq%2Bz