6 new ways to install vinyl siding

By The Coffee Shops™. 

PEPA’s proposed new fastener table for vinyl siding installations was accepted into the building codes. 

Traditionally, codes have dictated that there is a single prescriptive way to install vinyl siding – 16 inches on center into the studs. However, this has been limiting for contractors in the field as polymeric exterior products are installed over a wide range of wall sheathings and framing spacings, and not all of them work well with that traditional installation method.  

In response to this issue, the Polymeric Exterior Products Association (PEPA) had their technical committee test a variety of fasteners in relation to the installation of vinyl siding, backed vinyl siding and insulated vinyl siding products. When it became apparent that other options besides the traditional method could work, PEPA submitted code changes to the model code development process and they were accepted. 

The result of the work group’s efforts is a new fastener table has been added to ICC’s 2027 International Residential Code (IRC) and International Building Code (IBC).  

What exactly is in this fastener table?  

The table’s contents shift away from the idea that there is one correct installation method for vinyl siding and instead presents six standardized approaches. An example of these new approaches is the recognition of the usability of ring shank nails. While smooth shank roofing and siding nails have long been common in the industry, ring shank nails actually provide better hold in some nailable substrates because of the friction created by the rings. 

The table also specifies that polymeric claddings with furring should be used over masonry construction, applications with foam insulation for super-insulated structures and fasteners placed 24 inches on center in normal non-high-wind areas. 

Overall, the expansion of the approved code installation methods promises to help builders and installers address different construction situations, including new construction, remodeling and installation over masonry concrete masonry units (CMUs). 

Learn more about PEPA’s fastener table and what it means for contractors installing vinyl, backed vinyl and insulated vinyl siding.