Decker Black - The Complete Guide to Roofing Siding & Trim: Protect & Beautify the Exterior of Your Home

For safety, use caution, care, and good judgment when following the procedures described in this book. The publisher and Black & Decker cannot assume responsibility for any damage to property or injury to persons as a result of misuse of the information provided.

The techniques shown in this book are general techniques for various applications. In some instances, additional techniques not shown in this book may be required. Always follow manufacturers instructions included with products, since deviating from the directions may void warranties. The projects in this book vary widely as to skill levels required: some may not be appropriate for all do-it-yourselfers, and some may require professional help.

Consult your local building department for information on building permits, codes, and other laws as they apply to your project.

Introduction

Your homes roof, siding, and trim form a protective envelope against the elements, but their value extends beyond that crucial goal of keeping you dry. When selected carefully and installed properly, these three systems create an important curb impression that adds value to your property, improves the neighborhood, and makes you feel proud of your home. So, whether you need to replace your aging shingles out of necessity or decide to update faded siding just to spruce the place up, your efforts usually pay dividends both functionally and aesthetically. Its hard to go wrong embarking on a roofing, siding, or exterior trim project with the right guidance.

Contrary to what you may think, you dont have to hire a contractor to tackle a roof replacement, install fiber cement siding, or hang a new soffit system. If youve got a spirit of adventure and consider yourself to be a moderate to experienced do-it-yourselfer, you have what it takes to get these projects done effectively. By doing the work yourself, you save a bundle of money in the processand thats an enticing prospect for any homeowner on a budget. Think youre up for the challenge? Then this book, The Complete Guide to Roofing, Siding & Trim, is the perfect guide to get you started and walk you through every step of the process.

The first section of the book opens with an inspirational gallery of roofing and siding products installed on a variety of contemporary homes so you can begin to dream about the possibilities. The next section, Planning for New Roofing & Siding, helps you turn those dreams into reality as you plan your roofing, siding, or trim projects. The section explains how to evaluate your needs and identify current problems with your homes exterior. Then, you get an exhaustive crash course on the latest products available to you. Options for roofing, siding, and trim have never been greater, greener, and more DIY friendly than they are now. With a little time spent in this section of the book, you will get the look, performance, and value you demand. We also show you how to estimate your projects accurately as well as how to work safely at heightsa necessity for most roofing, siding, and trim projects.

The following sections focus on installing roofing, siding, masonry, and exterior trim. The thorough step-by-step instructions and insightful photography show professional installation techniques for nearly every roofing, siding, ventilation, and trim product available: asphalt shingles, metal roofing, wood shakes and shingles, tile and rolled roofing; and siding of all kinds, including stucco, veneered stone, and cement. We then explain how to install important roof and soffit ventilation and gutters. Finally, the important final touches are revealed, such as how to complete your homes exterior with window and door brickmold, build and hang shutters, and add other decorative trim details to gables, beams, and cornices.

Once your new exterior is complete, well show you how to extend its life and maximize your investment.

In these final sections of the book, you learn how to clean, paint, and stain properly as well as how to carry out other essential repairs for roofing, siding, flashing, gutters, trim, and masonry surfaces. Even if these jobs wont be necessary for years to come, youll be prepared to take action when they are.