Installation Guide

preparation

POSITIONING THE STARTER STRIP

Before the steel siding itself can be installed, a number of accessories must

be installed first, including starter strips, corner posts, window flashing,

trim, and J-channels.

Step 1

In order for the siding to be installed properly, the starter strip at

the bottom of the wall must be level.

Step 2

The starting chalk line should be located so that it represents the

top, not the bottom, of the starter strip.

Chalk lines are normally established from the lowest corner of the

house. In situations where the ground at the corner of the house is not

level, chalk lines must be measured from the soffit location to assure a

uniform panel at the top of the walls.

Step 3 To attach a chalk line, go to the next corner and pull the line taut.

Step 4

Snap the chalk line and repeat the procedure around the

entire house.

Step 5 Using the chalk line as a guide, install the top edge of the starter

strip along the chalk line, nailing at 12" intervals. Allow space for

accessories (corner posts, J-channels, etc.).

Step 6 Keep the ends of starter strips at least 1/4" apart to allow for

expansion. Never butt or overlap the starter strip (Fig. 7.1).

Step 7 Nail in the center of the starter strip nailing slots (Fig. 7.2).

Step 8 Starter strip fasteners should be driven just flush in the center

of the slots to take out starter looseness but should not be overdriven to

where it indents the starter.

ALTERNATIVE STARTING METHODS

Starter strip may not work in all situations. J-channels may work better in

starting rows of siding especially over decks, concrete porches, brick sills,

retaining walls, garage doors, and other instances (Fig. 7.3).

FIG 7.1

FIG 7.2

FIG 7.3

steel siding installation