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Exterior Siding and Trimwork - Page 4 of 25

Just like interior trim, siding and exterior trim details go a long way toward defining the architectural and stylistic character of the house. What’s on the outside of the house is the very first thing visitors are going to see, instantly creating an impression that’s positive or, well, not so much.

Carpenters will need a variety of trim carpentry techniques in order to tackle this important building element: how to install siding, how to paint siding, even how to remove siding when it needs replacement. Choosing colors, and combining different types of siding, are important design skills.

Back in the good old days, builders had relatively few choices when it came to choosing a type of siding. There was brick, pine clapboards, cedar shingles or shakes, and possibly board-and-batten in a locally available softwood. These days, a builder might still choose one of those standbys. But the question now may be how to install vinyl siding, or whether vinyl siding can be painted. In some parts of the country, choosing a fire resistant siding is essential. Builders having trouble locating high-quality cedar shingles may turn to vinyl cedar shake siding, or fiber cement that looks just like western red cedar. Each option is a little different, not only in cost and appearance but how it’s installed.

Exterior trim presents many opportunities for stylistic expression. Modern designs are clean and precise. Craftsman Bungalows and stately Colonials are still going to turn heads when the builder gets the details right. New materials like vinyl and fiber cement offer a level of weather resistance and low maintenance not possible a generation ago. Whatever your preference, Fine Homebuilding authors have the experience to show you how.

  • One-Piece Foundation Insulation and Finish System

    FoundationPro from Progressive Technologies has all the advantages of exterior insulation plus it protects from UV radiation and weed whacking.

  • Rainscreen Systems for Stucco

    If you want to install stucco and not rot your walls, choose one of these products to create a drainage plane and ventilation space between the water-resistive barrier and the stucco.

  • Podcast 401: PRO TALK With Mr. Cedar

    In this Pro-Talk podcast, Mark Petersen talks with Paul Mackie (aka Mr. Cedar), a cedar specialist with the Western Red Cedar Lumber Association.

  • Better Battens for Open-Joint Siding

    Benjamin Obdyke redesigned their polypropylene Batten UV furring strips to give more flexibility and durability to rainscreen siding installations.

  • A Case for Composite Wood Siding

    Gone are the days of old-growth timber, but there's still good reason to use wood for siding. Fernando Pagés Ruiz makes a compelling case for the use of engineered wood siding.

  • Repairing Exterior Trim

    Learn how to replace a rotted section of trim or make an in-place epoxy repair.

  • Tips for Ordering Siding Materials

    Learn how to calculate the wall area and account for window area, waste, and gable walls when determining how much siding to buy for a job.

  • How to Set Vinyl-Siding Starter Strips

    After installing your vinyl soffits, fascia, and corner boards, the starter strips are the first step in covering walls with siding panels.

  • Install the Starter Strips and the Trim for Vinyl Siding

    These trim details are designed to hide or interlock with the ends and edges of vinyl siding; get them right and the next steps will go smoothly.

  • Tips for Laying Out and Installing Vinyl Siding

    Learn how to install the outside corners, nail the J-channel, set the starter strips, and install the siding panels.

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Fine Homebuilding Magazine

  • Issue 331 - June 2025
    • A More Resilient Roof
    • Tool Test: You Need a Drywall Sander
    • Ducted vs. Ductless Heat Pumps
  • Issue 330 - April/May 2025
    • Deck Details for Durability
    • FAQs on HPWHs
    • 10 Tips for a Long-Lasting Paint Job
  • Issue 329 - Feb/Mar 2025
    • Smart Foundation for a Small Addition
    • A Kominka Comes West
    • Making Small Kitchens Work
  • Issue 328 - Dec/Jan 2024
    • How a Pro Replaces Columns
    • Passive House 3.0
    • Tool Test: Compact Line Lasers
  • Issue 327 - November 2024
    • Repairing Damaged Walls and Ceilings
    • Plumbing Protection
    • Talking Shop

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