Alside Siding is a leading choice among U.S. homeowners and professional contractors for its blend of durability, aesthetic appeal, and long-term value. The product line includes a variety of styles and materials—vinyl, aluminum, steel, and composite cladding—each designed to meet the needs of different climates and architectural preferences. For those considering an exterior renovation or new construction, understanding the installation process and long-term care of Alside Siding is essential. This guide provides a detailed, step-by-step breakdown of Alside Siding installation, supported by maintenance tips, cost considerations, and warranty details, all based on information from official installation resources and product literature.
Overview of Alside Siding Installation
Alside Siding emphasizes that the success of any siding project depends not only on the quality of the product but also on the precision of the installation. Proper installation ensures long-term performance, aesthetic appeal, and compliance with warranty conditions. Alside provides detailed guidelines for both residential and commercial applications, with specific instructions for different siding types—vinyl, aluminum, steel, and composite cladding.
The installation process for Alside Siding is designed to be user-friendly, particularly for composite cladding such as Alside ASCEND, which is known for its lightweight, interlocking design and reduced labor requirements. For vinyl siding, Alside offers a Prodigy One-Piece Insulated Siding System that integrates insulation with the siding, improving energy efficiency and reducing installation time.
Contractors and DIY homeowners should consult Alside’s official installation resources, including instructional videos, product manuals, and technical specifications, to ensure a seamless installation. These resources are available through the Polymeric Exterior Products Association (PEPA) and Alside’s official website.
Step-by-Step Installation for Alside Siding
1. Preparation and Planning
Before beginning the installation, it is crucial to plan the layout and materials needed. This includes:
- Measuring the surface area of the home to determine the number of siding panels required.
- Gathering tools and materials, including a tape measure, utility knife, staple gun, and safety gear.
- Reviewing the manufacturer's guidelines, which specify the recommended fasteners, spacing, and alignment procedures.
For composite cladding such as Alside ASCEND, the self-aligning stack lock feature simplifies the installation process. Each panel snaps into place without the need for caulking or sealing, reducing the number of crew members required and decreasing the overall installation time.
2. Surface Preparation
Before installing the siding, ensure that the surface is clean, dry, and free of debris. This includes:
- Removing old siding or materials, if applicable.
- Inspecting the sheathing for any damage or moisture issues that need to be addressed before installation.
- Applying a weather-resistant barrier, if required by local building codes or manufacturer recommendations.
For Alside’s Prodigy One-Piece Insulated Siding System, it is important to ensure that the insulation layer is properly aligned with the home’s structure to maximize energy efficiency and prevent gaps.
3. Starting the Installation
Installation typically begins at the bottom of the home and works upward. The process includes:
- Installing the starter strip, which is designed to secure the first row of siding and allow for proper expansion and contraction.
- Aligning the first panel, ensuring that it is level and properly seated against the starter strip.
- Fastening the panel using the recommended fasteners, which are typically spaced 16 to 24 inches apart along the top and bottom edges.
For Alside ASCEND siding, the lightweight and interlocking design allows for quick and easy installation. Contractors should follow the manufacturer’s instructions for proper alignment and fastening techniques to avoid gaps or misalignment.
4. Continuing the Installation
After the first row is installed, the process is repeated for subsequent rows. Key considerations include:
- Maintaining consistent alignment, using a laser level or chalk line to ensure straight lines.
- Following the manufacturer’s recommended spacing, which allows for proper expansion and contraction of the material.
- Installing trim and corner pieces, which are designed to enhance the appearance and protect vulnerable areas such as corners and edges.
Alside offers a range of trim options, including soffit, fascia, and corner boards, which should be installed according to the manufacturer’s specifications. These components help to seal the gaps between the siding and roof overhangs, improving both the aesthetic and functional performance of the siding system.
5. Final Inspection and Clean-Up
Once the siding is installed, a final inspection should be conducted to ensure that:
- All panels are properly aligned and securely fastened.
- No gaps or misalignments are present.
- Trim and corner pieces are installed correctly.
After the inspection, any debris or dust should be cleaned up, and the installation area should be restored to its original condition. For vinyl siding, it is important to avoid using harsh chemicals or pressure washing, as these can damage the surface.
Maintenance and Long-Term Care
One of the key advantages of Alside Siding is its low maintenance requirements. Unlike wood or fiber cement siding, Alside products do not require frequent painting, sealing, or intensive cleaning. However, periodic maintenance is recommended to preserve the appearance and performance of the siding.
General Maintenance Tips
- Seasonal cleaning with a garden hose and mild detergent is sufficient to remove dirt, dust, and stains. A soft-bristled brush can be used to gently scrub stubborn spots.
- Avoid pressure washing, as the high-pressure stream can damage the surface and cause long-term wear.
- Keep gutters and downspouts clean, to prevent water from pooling near the base of the siding, which can lead to staining or mold growth.
For Alside ASCEND siding, the composite cladding is designed to resist fading, warping, and cracking. The built-in color eliminates the need for repainting, and the glass fibers in the material provide added durability without making the siding fragile.
Addressing Common Issues
While Alside Siding is highly durable, there are a few potential issues that homeowners should be aware of:
- Melting from heat exposure: Direct exposure to intense heat sources such as reflected sunlight from windows or BBQ grills can cause vinyl siding to melt. To prevent this, homeowners should avoid placing heat-producing appliances near the siding.
- Cracks or warping: In rare cases, improper installation or extreme weather conditions can lead to minor cracks or warping. These should be inspected and addressed by a qualified contractor.
- Stains or discoloration: Persistent stains may require professional cleaning or the use of a mild detergent. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials, which can damage the surface.
Alside provides detailed maintenance instructions in its product literature, which can be accessed through the manufacturer’s website or through local distributors.
Cost Considerations and Warranty
The cost of Alside Siding varies depending on the type of material, the size of the project, and the location. On average, Alside Siding is considered a mid-range option, falling between the lower-cost vinyl siding and the higher-end fiber cement options.
Cost Breakdown
- Material cost: Alside Siding is competitively priced, with vinyl and aluminum options being more affordable than composite or insulated siding.
- Installation cost: Installation can be labor-intensive, especially for insulated or composite cladding systems. The cost of labor depends on the complexity of the project and the experience of the contractor.
- Long-term savings: Alside Siding is designed to reduce long-term maintenance costs and energy expenses, particularly with the Prodigy One-Piece Insulated Siding System.
Warranty Information
Alside offers a variety of warranties depending on the product line. For example:
- Alside ASCEND siding comes with a lifetime warranty covering fade, stain, and finish resistance, provided the product is installed correctly and maintained according to the manufacturer’s guidelines.
- Odyssey Plus and other vinyl siding options come with 25- to 30-year warranties covering color fade and material defects.
- Prodigy One-Piece Insulated Siding includes warranty coverage for energy efficiency and insulation performance.
It is important to note that warranties are contingent upon proper installation. If the siding is not installed according to the manufacturer’s specifications, the warranty may be void.
Choosing the Right Alside Siding Product
Alside offers a range of siding options to suit different needs and preferences. Some of the key products include:
- Alside ASCEND: A composite cladding option that offers the look of wood with the durability of composite materials. It is lightweight, easy to install, and requires minimal maintenance.
- Prodigy One-Piece Insulated Siding: Combines insulation with siding for improved energy efficiency. It is ideal for homeowners looking to reduce heating and cooling costs.
- Coventry by Alside: Designed to mimic the appearance of traditional wood siding but with the low-maintenance benefits of composite cladding.
- Odyssey Plus: A high-performance vinyl siding option with a wide range of color choices and a strong warranty.
Homeowners should consider factors such as climate, budget, and aesthetic preferences when selecting an Alside Siding product. For example, in areas with extreme weather conditions, composite cladding may be a better option than vinyl, which can be more susceptible to warping or cracking.
Installation Time and Labor Requirements
The average installation time for Alside Siding varies depending on the product type and the size of the project. For Alside ASCEND siding, the lightweight and interlocking design allows for a faster installation process. On average, the installation can be completed in three days, with fewer crew members required compared to traditional fiber cement siding.
For vinyl and aluminum siding, the installation time may be slightly longer, depending on the complexity of the layout and the need for additional trim and corner pieces. Contractors should also factor in the time required for surface preparation and final inspection.
Conclusion
Alside Siding offers a reliable, durable, and cost-effective solution for homeowners and contractors looking to enhance the exterior of their properties. With a range of products—vinyl, aluminum, steel, and composite cladding—Alside provides options that suit different climates, budgets, and aesthetic preferences. The installation process is designed to be user-friendly, particularly for composite cladding such as Alside ASCEND, which features a lightweight and interlocking design that reduces labor and time requirements.
Regular maintenance is simple and requires minimal effort, making Alside Siding a low-maintenance option that can retain its appearance and performance for years. With competitive pricing, long-term energy savings, and strong warranty coverage, Alside Siding is a smart investment for any residential exterior renovation project.
Homeowners and contractors should always follow the manufacturer’s installation and maintenance guidelines to ensure optimal performance and warranty compliance. By doing so, they can enjoy the benefits of a beautiful, durable, and energy-efficient exterior for years to come.