Summarize this article in one sentence.
Vinyl siding is a good option for homeowners who like the look of siding, but don't want the expense that accompanies cedar and concrete composite products. It is also a favorite for homeowners who don't want the hassle of repainting the outside of their house periodically.  Before you decide to install vinyl siding on your own home, visit some vinyl sided houses and inspect them thoroughly to make sure you like what you see. Ask a local realtor about how installing vinyl siding on your home might affect the value of the house -- although it will have a positive effect in most places, if your house is the only one with vinyl siding in a neighborhood of restored Victorian homes, it could bring the value down. Decide what type of vinyl you want -- vinyl siding comes in textured or smooth, high gloss or low gloss finishes. It also comes in a wide array of colors, some with grain-like patterns which closely resemble real wood. Although installing vinyl siding by yourself might save you a lot of money, you should definitely consider hiring a contractor if you've never installed vinyl siding before.  Installing vinyl siding is an involved process which requires a lot of time and skill. In fact, the quality of the installation can have a huge effect the finished result and even determine how long the siding lasts. Even the highest quality siding will buckle and warp if not installed correctly. If you choose to get a contractor, gather a list of names in your local area and request a price estimate from each of them. Also take the time to inspect some of their previous work and talk to previous clients to make sure they are satisfied with the work done. If you decide to go ahead and complete the project yourself, you will need quite an extensive array of tools and materials. Use the following list as a guideline.  In terms of tools, you will need: a folding ruler, a metal square, a claw hammer, a snap-lock punch, tin snips, a power saw, a chalk line, a  measuring tape, a level, a utility knife, a pliers, a nail slot punch, a carpenter's saw, a hacksaw, a stepladder, sawhorses and a pry bar. In terms of materials, you will need: lengths of J-channel, flashing, building paper, corrosion-resistant nails and enough vinyl siding to cover your home. You will also need vinyl corners and trim for windows and doors, as well as a termination trim for where you meet other surfaces such as soffits and masonry work. Before you begin, you will need to properly prepare the outside of your home for the siding installation.  One of the major issues with vinyl siding is that it masks moisture problems and other structural defects. Therefore it's important to fix any existing issues before you install the siding. Tighten any loose boards and replace any rotting ones. Scrape away any old caulk from around doors and windows. Clear your work area by removing any fixtures such as exterior lights, down-spouts, moulding, mailboxes and house numbering. Also tie back any plants, trees or flowers from the exterior of the house to give you more room and prevent them from becoming damaged. 1⁄2 inch (1.3 cm) plywood or OSB are common substrates, and these are generally covered with roofing felt or another moisture barrier prior to siding the walls. When installing vinyl siding, there are a number of important rules to follow with regards to fitting and nailing.  Vinyl siding expands and contracts with temperature changes, therefore it is important to allow extra room for expansion in order to prevent the siding from buckling. Leave an extra 1⁄4 inch (0.6 cm) gap between siding panels and any accessories. You should also refrain from driving the nails too tightly, restricting the movement of the panels.You should leave about 1⁄16 inch (0.2 cm) between the nail head and the siding, to allow for movement and prevent waves from forming in the panels. In addition, you need to center each nail in the appropriate slot, making sure to drive the nails in straight rather than crooked. You should never face nail (drive nails through the panels) when installing siding, as this may cause the panels to buckle.
Think about why you want to install vinyl siding. Consider hiring a contractor. Gather your tools and materials. Prepare the outside of your home for the installation. Remove any siding or exterior finish that isn't compatible with vinyl siding, and make sure the walls are sheathed with a substrate to receive the siding. Understand the fitting and nailing rules.