Types of Wood Siding Available for Homeowners
When building your home, even the smallest decision could make a world of difference in what it ultimately looks like. This is also true when undertaking an exterior redesign project. Siding, among other key characteristics, is one of those big decisions that could entirely alter your home’s exterior appeal based on your decision.
Although plastic siding has become a popular option in recent years due to pricing, traditional wood siding remains the preference for many homeowners. This is because wood siding offers customers numerous benefits over their plastic counterparts. Benefits include:
• Wood siding is eco-friendlier than plastic
• Wood is more aesthetically appealing
• Many types of wood are naturally resistant to mold, mildew, and rot, which allows the home owner less maintenance
• Wood lasts longer
• …And much more
One of the main benefits is that wood naturally takes to paint, stains, and other decorative options incredibly well. Plastic, on the other hand, often must be crafted in the customer’s color choice – meaning that options are limited. Once decided upon a type of wood siding, however, you can then choose any type of finish. Whether you want to paint your home the colors of the rainbow, or opt for a natural dark wood stain, anything is possible. Below we look at four of the most commonly used types of siding available: board and batten siding, bevel, tongue and groove, and lap siding. Each has their own aesthetic appeal so that there is something for every person’s unique tastes.
Board and Batten Siding
Board and batten siding is a vertical design created by using two different sized boards. The wider boards are set beneath, while the narrower boards are placed atop the joins. These narrower boards are called ‘battens.’ There are no set widths, so homeowners can choose their preference. The most commonly used measurements, however, are 1 inch by 3 inch battens placed over 1 inch by 10 inch boards.
Bevel Siding
Bevel siding is the most commonly used siding. Installed horizontally, boards are cut at an angle so that one side is thicker than the others. This creates a shingle effect, or the appearance that the boards are overlapping one another. Tongue and Groove Siding Tongue and groove siding is incredibly versatile. Available in both rough and smooth board finishes, it is fitted together tightly to give a sleek appearance. It can be installed in any direction, which does not only include horizontal and vertical, but also diagonal.
Lap Siding
Lap Siding is also known as Channel siding. This siding is very versatile, with installation capabilities for any direction (like the above tongue and groove siding). This unique siding features boards which partially overlap one another, and the ultimate results are a rustic appearance like those of a hunting cabin. If you’re interested in learning even more about wood siding -including less commonly used types available – you can contact your local siding specialist or construction expert. They will be able to give you more detailed information, including a price estimate for your area.