How to Attach Siding to Stucco

Siding is a low-maintenance solution that provides all-weather protection for a variety of exterior wall surfaces. Stucco, however, can present its own particular problems. Virtually cement, stucco can be tough and brittle and requires special considerations when attaching siding. Even so, if you use the right tools and technique, a stucco wall can provide a perfectly suitable attachment surface for siding.

• 1

  Remove any easily removable wall obstructions such as light fixtures, address plates, handrails, etc. from the exterior walls with a standard or Phillips screwdriver.

• 2

  Nail strips of 1/2-inch rigid-foam sheathing in the corners.

• 3

  Nail corner trim over the rigid-foam sheathing strips.

• 4

  Nail window and door trim around any windows and doors.

• 5

  Install rigid-foam sheathing panels over the surface of the exterior wall with a hammer and nails. Only install panels over the area you are working on, one area at a time.

• 6

  Snap the siding panels into place and nail them into the exterior wall approximately every 16 inches. Nail the nails into the center of the nail holes to allow for expansion over time. Continue this process until the exterior wall is covered in siding. Measure and cut any unusual lengths of panels with a tape measure and cut them with a utility knife.

• 7

  Reattach any exterior fixtures removed before installing the siding system.