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homeimpr
Oct 29, 2010, 01:49 PM
I need to drill some holes in my vinyl siding to attach some shutters. I am concerned about cracking my siding during installation since the weather is getting colder. If I drill into the siding in 50 degree weather, would the siding be prone to cracking or would this only happen in much cooler weather? I do not want to do anything that could possibly damage my siding since I do not have any replacement pieces. Thanks.

twinkiedooter
Oct 29, 2010, 01:56 PM
I've drilled into vinyl siding by first using a small drill bit and then going up a size to make the hole bigger. You should have thought about this project when it was warmer so try to pick a day where it's as warm as it's going to get and make it a sunny day as well and you should be okay. Just start with the small bit though as that is crucial to not cracking the vinyl siding.

ma0641
Oct 29, 2010, 02:28 PM
Yes. vinyl will crack at colder temperatures. However, the simple solution is to take a hair dryer, slowly heat the spot where you will drill and when it is slightly warm to the touch, drill the hole. We do some installation in winter-Atlanta- but try to keep the vinyl at room temperature before installing.

homeimpr
Oct 30, 2010, 01:04 PM
Thanks for the advice. How cold do you think it would have to be outside before the siding would be prone to cracking? If we happen to get a warm day in the low to mid 60s, would the siding be warm enough to be resistant to cracking? I am willing to wait for a warmer day to install them, even if that means that we have to wait until Spring.

ma0641
Oct 31, 2010, 07:30 PM
60 degrees would be fine. Don't try to drill too big a hole too fast and don't use a spade bit, use a straight drill bit. Good luck, Brian