Water Behind Vinyl Siding

It is a misconception that vinyl siding doesn t need a water resistant barrier system.

Water behind vinyl siding.

Vinyl is a potentially leaky material and water trapped behind siding leads to decay and mold. How to waterproof osb behind vinyl siding. The exterior walls of your vinyl siding clad home consists of layers of different materials designed to keep your home dry and warm in the winter or. Lack of gutters installed on the top roof of the home.

Inspect the area above the leak including both indoors and out. Vinyl siding is designed as an exterior cladding only and is supposed to be installed over other materials such as a weather resistant barrier. While a water resistant house wrap is typically installed under the siding it is punctured by nails during the installation process contributing to leaks. How to prevent water from flowing under vinyl siding.

If an installer uses a material such as incorrectly this only exacerbates the problem. When siding is put back behind the gutter the lowest piece of flashing running down the pitch of the roof above must be fashioned to divert water into the gutter not behind the siding. In this video this old house general contractor tom silva shows how to prevent water from leaking in behind vinyl siding. In terms of siding this means layering sheeting flashing house wrap caulking siding and trim.

It s virtually impossible to completely seal any siding without additional materials. Vinyl siding must be able to move independently of the wall surface. Vinyl siding itself is waterproof and directs most water flow away from the exterior but even a small gap can allow water through. The most common causes of water damage behind vinyl siding include the following.

Check to be sure weep holes are open along bottom of window openings.