The Polymeric Exterior Products Association’s (PEPA) Installation Central Work Group has officially dove into what may be its most ambitious update cycle yet—and we couldn’t be more thrilled to be part of it. The team is undertaking a comprehensive overhaul of not only the most widely used resource, the Vinyl Siding Installation Manual, but also all collateral that supports the VSI Certified Installer Program.
This isn’t merely a routine refresh. We’re updating everything—from code references and newly developed graphics to installation best practices, while incorporating these changes into the manual and the VSI Certified Installer program.
The first major milestone was revising the Code Resource Guide, bringing it up to date from the 2021 International Code Council (ICC) I-Codes to the newly released 2024 I-Codes. This update ensures our guidance aligns with the latest building standards and highlights critical code requirements around utility trim, starter strips, decks and grates.
But this is just the start.
The work group recently convened to tackle revisions to the Installation Manual – a resource that’s central to the VSI Certified Installer Program and widely relied upon across the industry. It’s been three years since the last update, which brought major improvements in organization and clarity. This time, we’re going even further.
- One key addition is a brand-new section dedicated to polypropylene siding. As this product category continues to grow, it’s essential that our installation practices reflect its unique characteristics and performance standards.
- The work group has already proposed over 150 edits and added at least 10 new graphics to enhance clarity and usability. These changes will make the manual more intuitive and accessible for installers, inspectors and educators alike.
Leading the charge as staff liaison is Alex Brand, PEPA’s Workforce Development Operations Manager, who’s working closely with fellow staff, PEPA’s Installation Central Work Group Co-Chairs – Brian Miller of Cornerstone Building Brands and Rob Balfanz of Progressive Foam – and a team of expert consultants to shape the revisions. The level of detail and collaboration going into this project is nothing short of impressive, and we’re grateful to have Alex and such capable co-chairs guiding this incredibly ambitious and cumbersome project.
Once the manual is finalized, the work group will shift our focus to developing supplemental teaching modules and video content.
These tools will help bring the revised Installation Manual to life and support hands-on learning for installers nationwide.
It’s all part of our broader mission to elevate installation standards and ensure polymeric exterior products are installed with precision and confidence.
This is a big lift, no doubt. But thanks to the dedication and expertise of our work group, we’re confident that we’ll deliver resources that set a new benchmark for the industry.
Stay tuned for more updates as PEPA’s Installation Central Work Group moves closer to the 2026 launch of the new and improved Installation Manual.