When you’re in the market for new siding, you will surely hear of “lap siding.” But what exactly does that mean, and what kind of options do you have within that broad style?
Lap siding consists of wide siding panels that are installed horizontally and (as the name implies) overlap. They give the classic look that most people picture when they think of siding.
Read on to gain insight into why lap siding is the most popular siding type and zero in on which style and material options you prefer for your next siding replacement.
7 Benefits of Horizontal Lap Siding
1. Versatile Material Options
Lap siding comes in a variety of materials. Learn the characteristics of each option before deciding which to install.
- Fiber cement — This popular material is known for its reliable durability, weather resistance, stunning style, and outstanding warranty.
- Vinyl — This customizable option is chosen for its welcoming price point, versatility, and attractive style.
- Wood — Used on historic homes, classic wood siding is timeless. As long as you are willing to do the upkeep necessary, wood brings genuine warmth to your exterior.
- Aluminum — This fire-resistant siding resists weather elements and delivers a modern look to your exterior.
2. Multiple Styles
- Dutch Lap or Horizontal Lap Siding — This classic-looking horizontal siding is the most popular on the market and works on a variety of different home styles. Compared to clapboard, the panels are subtly concave, creating a finer shadow.
- Beaded Lap Siding — This lap siding has a thick bead at the bottom of each panel, creating a shadow line for visual appeal.
- Clapboard Siding — A popular siding type, clapboard is horizontal panels that are narrower at the top and wider at the bottom. They are usually made of cedar and come in differing lengths.
- Shiplap Siding — Shiplap is a type of siding that overlaps at the top but has very tight tolerances and joints. It resembles what was used to cover ships years ago. It delivers the impression of flat siding with little exposure and almost no shadow cast.
3. Increase Home Value
The most popular siding style in the U.S., lap siding will increase your home value instantly. You can expect your house to catch the eye of buyers when it is covered in well-maintained lap siding.
4. Simple Maintenance
Lap siding delivers easy upkeep. Simply clean it once or twice a year with a garden hose. Point the hose at a 90-degree angle toward your siding so you don’t get moisture under the boards. Use a medium bristle nylon brush to scrub off dirt and diluted mild soap to wash any stains off. Avoid the temptation to use a power washer as it could cause damage that would lead to water intrusion.
5. Expert Installation
Your lap siding will only perform well over the years if it is installed correctly by a reputable siding contractor (like us!). It’s wise to seek out a contractor who is trained to install your siding by the manufacturer.
Simply vet your siding contractor so you get the top installation you deserve. Ask trusted neighbors, friends, and family for a referral to someone they hired to install their siding. Check online reviews, the Better Business Bureau, and Angi. See recent siding installation jobs the contractor completed and ask customers about their experience.
6. Reliable Weather Resistance
When you decide to cover your exterior with lap siding, the degree to which it will fortify your home from water intrusion and stand up to harsh weather and temperature extremes is primarily impacted by the material you choose. Fiber cement siding is well known for its weather resistance.
7. Easy Repairs
Lap siding is easy to access if a board becomes damaged. It can simply be removed and replaced.
Learn More about How Lap Siding Can Bring Out the Best in Your Property
Beautiful lap siding complements most home styles perfectly. As you narrow down your search for the perfect exterior solution, take a look at how our siding services can help you achieve your vision.
The James Hardie company recognizes our team at Porter Family Exteriors as an Elite Preferred contractor. To achieve and maintain this status, we earned recommendations from previous customers through GuildQuality—a leading third-party surveyor in the home improvement industry—giving individuals confidence in their choice of contractors.
