Frequently Asked Questions
VSI staff are often asked the following questions. We hope we can save you time in your search for information by looking for your question below. Please note that VSI staff cannot provide information beyond what is posted on our website. Questions are categorized as follows:
Installation
Certified Installer Program
Certified Products
Cleaning & Maintenance
Manufacturer Information
Statistics
Website Password Help
VSI Publications
Installation
Click here for general information about installation.
Click here to download a free copy of the Vinyl Siding Installation Manual.
Please note that VSI is not able to answer technical questions relating to the installation of vinyl siding. If you have more detailed questions about vinyl siding installation than that contained in the VSI Vinyl Siding Installation Manual, please contact the manufacturer of your vinyl siding.
Is the Vinyl Siding Installation Manual available in other languages?
Currently, the VSI Vinyl Siding Installation Manual is available in English and Spanish.
How do I purchase the Vinyl Siding Installation Video/DVD?
The Vinyl Siding Installation Video/DVD, along with additional publications, can be ordered using VSI’s Publications Order Form.
Do you need head flashing above vinyl windows and doors when vinyl siding is installed?
Please refer to page 20 in the VSI Vinyl Siding Installation Manual. VSI staff cannot give installation advice.
Should I install a water-resistive barrier?
Please refer to page 2 of the VSI Vinyl Siding Installation Manual for information on water-resistive barriers.
Can vinyl siding be installed over asbestos?
Asbestos siding is a regulated material, and the appropriate environmental agency or local building code official should be contacted before residing over this product.
Should caulking be used with vinyl siding?
The VSI Vinyl Siding Installation Manual addresses several caulking issues.
On page 6, under “Basic Installation Rules”: “Do not caulk the panels where they meet the receiver of inside corners, outside corners, or J-trim. Do not caulk the overlap joints.”
On page 17, under “Preparing the Walls” for a residing project: “Scrape off loose caulk and re-caulk around windows, doors, and other areas to protect from moisture penetration.”
On page 27, under “Transition from Brick to Vinyl Siding”: “Caulk where the sheathing meets the brick or stone exterior. Flashing should be caulked where it meets the brick or stone and a drip cap should be in place.”
How should I install vented soffit?
Please see the VSI Vinyl Siding Installation Manual. Also, since this is a building code issue, check local building code and contact local code officials.
Certified Installer Program
Click here for more information about the Certified Installer Program.
Click here to learn about the benefits of using a Certified Installer.
How can I become a Certified Installer?
Please visit the Certified Installer Program section of VSI's website for information about the program, including certification requirements and a schedule of upcoming courses.
How do I find a Certified Installer class?
Classes are individually scheduled by VSI Certified Trainers. Some classes are posted here. You can also contact a Certified Trainer by searching the Official Registry of Certified Installers.
I'm a Certified Trainer. How do I get class forms and other class materials?
Please visit the Certified Trainer section of VSI's website. If you do not have a password, you can register for one.
How do I locate a local Certified Installer?
You can locate a local Certified Installer by searching the Official Registry of Certified Installers.
Certified Products
Click here for information about certified vinyl siding
Click here for information about certified polypropylene siding
Click here for VSI's Official List of Certified Products and Colors
Cleaning & Maintenance
Click here for VSI's recommendations for the proper cleaning of vinyl siding.
Click here for VSI's recommendations for the proper maintenance of vinyl siding.
You can also contact the manufacturer of your vinyl siding.
Manufacturer Information
Who is the manufacturer of my vinyl siding?
Please contact the installer of your siding or a local distributor to determine the manufacturer of your vinyl siding. VSI staff are unable to identify individual brands or product lines, nor can we help you match a specific product.
How do I find warranty information for my vinyl siding?
For information on product warranties and problems with specific siding products, please contact the individual manufacturer of your vinyl siding.
How do I find out about different types and grades of vinyl siding? VSI does not currently offer information on specific products, but each manufacturer has details on their own profiles, trims, colors, etc. on their websites.
How do I find vinyl siding to replace a damaged panel?
To locate replacement siding, please contact the product’s manufacturer.
Statistics
Does VSI offer monthly projections and provide other statistical information on vinyl siding?
The only VSI statistical information available is an annual shipments report, as reported by VSI members.
Click here to view information about annual shipments of vinyl siding.
Additional information from public sources can be found at the following links:
Click here to view U.S. Census Bureau information about trends in exterior cladding.
VSI does not conduct any other types of research.
Website Password Help
How do I obtain a username and password to access the Members Only section of your Web site?
Only employees of VSI member companies have access to the Members Only section of VSI’s website. Certified Trainers can access the Certified Trainer section of the website. If you do not have a password, please complete the Sign Up form.
VSI Publications
How do I order VSI publications?
Publications can be ordered using VSI’s Publications Order Form.