How to Repair Wood Panel Siding

Wood panel siding can help give your home an attractive appearance. Panels of wood are laid over exterior walls to cover the wall surface. The wood is available in various sizes, shapes and textures. This allows you to create a particular design. In most cases, the panels measure 8 to 10 by 4 feet. Wood siding has always been one of the most popular choices because of the warm and natural appearance it gives a home. It is also one of the easier siding materials to install and repair. With wood siding, repair is usually necessitated by chips, cracks, holes, warp or rot in the wood. The guide below outlines how you can go about repair. However, in cases where the damage is extensive, it is best to remove the entire panel and replace it with a similar one.

Step 1 – Insert Wood Wedges

Identify the damaged wood panel. Place some wood wedges underneath the damaged portion. Use a hammer to tap the wedges into place. The wedges elevate the damaged panel, which makes it easier to cut out.

Step 2 - Cut out Damaged Area

Cut out the damaged portion with a circular saw. It is best to cut out a square shape, as it makes it easier to fit in the replacement. A square shape also gives the panel a more uniform appearance once repair is completed. Remove the wedges once you’ve finished.

Step 3 - Remove Nails

Use a nail puller to extract the nails that hold the damaged area in place. Slide a pry bar underneath the panel to slowly lift it up. Be careful not to damage the adjacent wood. For nails that prove difficult to remove, use a hacksaw. Insert wood wedges underneath the damaged panel to elevate the wood. This will allow you to fit a hacksaw underneath the panel. You can then proceed to cut through the nails, which will release the damaged panel.

Step 4 – Cut out Replacement Wood

Measure a portion of similar wood panel that will fit into the cut out area exactly. Cut with a circular saw.

Step 5 – Apply Wood Sealant

Wipe some wood sealant round the edges of the replacement wood. Allow the required time for the sealant to cure.

Step 6 – Insert Wood

Fit the wood into the space and drive in nails to secure the wood. Maintain the same nail pattern as of the adjacent panels.

Step 7 – Apply Wood Putty

Apply wood putty along the perimeter of the newly inserted piece to seal the joints. Cover the nail heads with putty as well. Allow the putty to dry.

Step 8 – Sanding

Use a 200-grit sandpaper to smooth the joints. This will enable the finish to adhere better when applied. Wipe away loose debris with a clean rag.

Step 9 – Finish

Apply the same finish as that on the rest of the siding with a paint brush.