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How to Collect a Siding Sample
Please read all directions before removing siding. Keep safety in mind when collecting the samples; be careful around sharp tools and edges. If you have safety concerns with the siding collection, you can ask that your siding contractor collect the sample for you.
For All Siding Samples
Collect a full height section including the nail hem, weep hole and 1 foot of length. If possible, the section should include the manufacturer's number, which is embossed or printed on the nail hem or back of the sample.
The sample should be taken from a low, inconspicuous area on the damaged elevation. Tape sharp edges with duct tape to help prevent injuries during shipping. Also use duct tape to cover exposed areas, preventing moisture penetration and further damage to the elevation once the siding is removed.
Removing Vinyl and Metal Siding
- For vinyl siding, a zip tool or other steel prying device can be used to hook under the lower edge of the panel and pull it away ( “unlock” it) from the panel below it. For metal siding, use a screwdriver or prybar to unsnap the butt edge. Do not use a zip tool on metal siding.
- Find the panel you want to remove, locate an exposed seam at one end of panel above it, and slip the prying device under its bottom edge. Pull downward and slide the tool from one end of the panel to the other, which unzips it from the lock of the panel below.
- Gently bend out the upper panel, exposing the nail hem of the lower panel (the one you will remove). Take nails out of the lower panel using a claw hammer or nail-puller.
- Use snips or scissors to remove the sample; snap any loose panels back into place.
Removing Hardboard or Composite/Fiber-Cement
Because many hardboard and composite products are made with similar construction and appearance, the manufacturer codes or markings printed on the back of the board are required for accurate identification.
To find a sample with the manufacturer codes or markings:
- Check for remnants from the original installation.
- Go to an unfinished part of the house like a garage or attic. Cut the protective felt paper or insulation board between framing studs to reveal markings
- Pull a board off the house using a prybar and look at the back. The markings or codes will be printed along the back of most pieces.
Once a piece with the markings or codes is found:
- Remove a piece that shows the pattern repetition, markings and pattern on back. Include any distinctive markings in the pattern, such as knot holes, along with the full width and height.
- If it is not possible to send the full pattern because of the product size, indicate the full size of one piece of the siding on the ITEL Test Request form, and send a 1' x 1' sample. Include a photo of the full pattern.
Asbestos Siding
- To minimize potential exposure to asbestos, DO NOT remove the sample or submit to ITEL. Any slate-type siding may possibly contain asbestos. Most are approximately 1/8" thick with a straight, wavy, or thatched bottom edge.
- Take photos that give a clear indication of the appearance and measurements of the sample. Photograph the damaged elevation from areas with different exposure and light conditions. For example, take pictures in both sunlight and shade.
Once you've collected the sample, fill out the ITEL Test Request Form.