Snap Chalk Line

Start at the lowest corner of siding or sheathing on the house. Drive a nail partway into the sheathing at a point 1-1/2" higher than the lowest corner. Stretch a chalk line from this nail to a similar nail at the next corner of the house, being careful to make sure that the line is level. Continue this process around the entire house.

Install Starter Strip

Position the starter strip with the top edge on the level chalk line. Nail the starter strip to the wall, being sure to follow the nailing tips on the previous page. Use shims to fill any hollows which may occur in the wall surface. It is important that the starter strip be installed straight and level. As you add sections of starter strip, always leave 1/4" space between sections to allow for expansion and contraction.

Installing Inside Corner Posts

Inside corner posts are installed at existing corners and begin 1/4" below the bottom edge of the starter strip. Position the corner post 1/4" below the point where it will meet the eaves. If you will be installing vinyl soffit, allow proper distance below the underside of the eaves to leave space for soffit installation accessories.

Be sure to set the corner posts straight and true. Beginning at the top of the adjoining walls, palce the topmost nails at the top of the uppermost nailing slots, so that the corner post hangs on these two nails. Continue nailing every 8" to 16", now placing nails in the center of the nailing slots. This will allow the corner posts to expand vertically.

Splicing Inside Corner Post

If you need to use more than one length of inside corner post, make a splice: Cut 1' from all but the outer face of the top of the lower portion of the corner post. Then lap 3/4" of the upper section of corner post over the lower section, allowing 1/4" for expansion.