[homeimpr]

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]

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]

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]

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]

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