Installing Vinyl Siding Over Shingle Siding

Install a layer of fan-fold foam, lightweight sheets of extruded Polystyrene. This will add a layer of insulation and create a smooth, flat surface for the new siding. The installation process will vary a bit depending on the specific product, but usually requires the use of a nail gun.

Replace old or worn caulking and repair any damaged wood around the home. Install furring strips over the insulation to keep the material in place and to provide a solid surface for nailing.

Start with trim and soffit pieces. Vinyl siding requires that all trim work be done before the main walls are started. This means any place vinyl will come into contact with something other than more siding -- doors, windows, vents -- must be done first.

Begin with a starter strip. A starter strip is a piece of vinyl that runs along the house and serves to hold the first row of siding to the wall. Affix to the wall using a nail gun, spacing nails every 10 inches. Leave a ¼-inch gap at both ends of the starter strip to leave room for expansion.

Install J-channeling around windows, doors and other outlets. This material is used to direct water away from doors and windows to prevent it from getting inside the home. Start with the bottom piece, then the sides and finish with the top. The corners should be cut at a 45-degree angle and the top piece should overlap the sides for extra protection. Finish preparation by installing corner and outside corner posts along the walls as necessary.

Work from the bottom and move toward the roof. The first panel must be installed and secured into place with a starter strip. Place nails in the nail slots in 16-inch increments. Subsequent panels are installed by interlocking them with the layer below, usually with a minimum 1 inch of overlap for horizontal panels. Keep panels at least ¼ inch away from doors and windows, ends are then tucked into trim pieces to create a seamless look.