Corner boards are vertical trim pieces that frame the edge of your house and protect your siding. They can become worn and weather-beaten over time, at which point you’ll need to replace them. The guide below will walk you through how to replace your home’s corner boards, which can enhance the shape of your house, better protect your home’s exterior, and increase your property’s curb appeal.
Understanding Corner Boards and Their Importance
Corner boards are vertical trim pieces that cover the joints at which two sides of your home meet. The boards typically run from the foundation to the roofline, create a finished look, and protect the edges of your siding from water and impact damage. Well-maintained corner boards can enhance your home’s architectural style and curb appeal.
Signs It’s Time To Replace Your Corner Boards
Inspect your corner boards regularly for signs of deterioration. Look for peeling paint, cracks, warping, or visible rot. These issues are unsightly and can also lead to damage if you don’t address them.
Also check for signs that the corner boards are no longer effectively protecting your home. This can include gaps between the board and siding, loose or missing sections, or evidence of water damage on the surrounding siding or wall structure.
Choosing the Right Material for New Corner Boards
The material you use for your new corner boards will affect the boards’ lifespans. Consider the options below when making your decision:
Traditional Wood Options
Wood is classic and versatile, and is the traditional choice for corner boards. Cedar, redwood, and sugar pine are popular options that hold paint well and offer better stability than lower-grade pine or fir. Every wood type requires regular maintenance to prevent weather damage and decay.
Modern Engineered Alternatives
Engineered lumber products, such as Georgia-Pacific’s PrimeTrim, offer several advantages over traditional wood. They’re made from wood fibers that manufacturers mix with resins and press into planks. This results in a durable, low-maintenance option that you can buy pre-primed and with a warranty that covers rot, delamination, and swelling.
Composite Materials
Composite materials are combinations of wood fibers and recycled plastics that are designed to mimic the look of wood. They’re durable, moisture-resistant, and come at a higher initial cost than other options, but require little maintenance.
Tools and Materials Needed for Corner Board Replacement
Gather the tools and materials below before you start your project:
Essential Tools for the Job
You’ll need the following tools:
- Circular saw with a cutting jig
- Pry bar
- Hammer
- Drill with pilot hole bit
- Level
- Tape measure
- Caulking gun
- Safety goggles
- Work gloves
Materials Checklist
Prepare these materials:
- 3.5-inch hot-dipped galvanized or stainless-steel nails
- Exterior-grade caulk
- High-quality exterior paint
- New corner boards (PrimeTrim, composite materials, or your chosen material)
- Primer
- Wood filler
Step-by-Step Process To Replace Corner Boards
Follow the steps below to successfully replace your corner boards:
Removing Old Corner Boards
- Removing any nails that secure the siding near the corner boards.
- Use a pry bar to carefully remove the old corner boards, and be cautious not to damage the adjacent siding or soffit.
- Inspect the exposed area for any damage or rot.
Preparing the Area for New Installation
- If you’re installing wider boards, you’ll need to cut back the siding. Create a cutting jig for your circular saw that accounts for the new board width plus a 1/8-inch clearance.
- Mark your cut line and renail the siding 1 inch in from this line.
- Use your cutting jig to carefully cut along the marked line to create space for the new, wider corner boards.
Installing New Corner Boards
- Apply two coats of high-quality exterior paint to your new corner boards and allow them to dry completely.
- Position the first board, and use a level to make sure it’s plumb.
- Drill pilot holes to prevent splitting, then secure the first board with 3 1/2-inch nails.
- Install the second board so that it overlaps with the first to create a tight corner joint.
- Caulk any gaps between the boards and siding to prevent water infiltration.
Finishing Touches
- Apply a final coat of paint to the new corner boards, and make sure to cover all nail heads.
- Touch up any areas on the siding that you may have damaged during the installation process.
- Use wood filler to fix any minor imperfections or gaps.
Common Mistakes To Avoid When Replacing Corner Boards
Be aware of the common pitfalls below when replacing corner boards:
- Failing to properly seal joints and gaps
- Not accounting for expansion and contraction when installing
- Overlooking necessary repairs to the underlying structure
- Skipping the priming step on non-primed boards
- Using the wrong type of nails or insufficient nail length
How To Replace Corner Boards on Different Siding Types
The replacement process may vary slightly depending on your home’s siding material. Read more about specific considerations below.
Wood Siding Considerations
Be careful not to damage existing boards when you’re working with wood siding. You may need to carefully remove and replace a few siding boards to achieve a seamless fit with the new corner boards. Make sure you’ve properly sealed and painted the new boards to match the existing siding.
Vinyl Siding Techniques
If your home has vinyl siding, use a zip tool to unlock the siding panels near the corners. This allows you to slide the new corner boards behind the siding for a clean installation. Re-secure the siding properly after installation to avoid any gaps or loose sections.
Aluminum Siding Approaches
Aluminum siding requires special care to avoid dents or bends. Use a siding removal tool to carefully detach the siding near the corners, and allow enough space so that you can install the new corner boards flush against the house wrap. Make sure you’ve firmly reattached the siding so that it doesn’t have any visible bends or imperfections.
Fiber Cement Siding Adjustments
Fiber cement siding is a durable and long-lasting material that requires precise installation. Use carbide-tipped tools to cut the fiber cement siding accurately, and take care to fit the new corner boards tightly. Always wear appropriate safety gear, such as a dust mask and safety glasses, when cutting fiber cement to avoid inhaling harmful dust particles.
Tips for Maintaining Your New Corner Boards
Proper maintenance will extend the life of your new corner boards and keep your home looking its best.
Regular Inspection and Cleaning
Inspect your corner boards at least twice a year for any signs of damage or wear. Clean them annually with a mild detergent solution to remove dirt and debris that can trap moisture and cause decay.
Protective Measures Against Weather Damage
Apply a fresh coat of paint or sealant every few years to protect the boards from moisture and UV damage. Make sure your gutters function properly and direct water away from the corners of your home.
Addressing Minor Repairs Promptly
Fill any cracks or gaps you notice with caulk or wood filler immediately. This can prevent minor issues from developing into more significant problems.
