If you are constructing a new home, or you are performing full-scale renovations on your existing property, you will be concerned about the type of siding to use. There are a few different options out there, but the main theme is that you will need durable siding that can stand the test of time. The last thing you want is to invest time and money into siding that starts to give away after a few years. Siding should last a minimum of a decade, if not longer. But what are the best options among siding for your home?
Lap Siding
Lap siding will typically have a very smooth or saw textured face and it often features a very rustic appearance. Also called channel siding, it is perfect for homes where you are going for a more old-fashioned or rustic look. It is possible to install lap/channel siding in three ways – horizontally, vertically or diagonally. The way that you install the siding will depend entirely on how you want your home to look from the outside. For durability, the installation method does not matter too much.
One benefit of channel siding is that each board has the profile of overlapping the next board in a slight way. These small overlaps ensure that you are getting a shadow line effect, which is perfect for getting added weather protection for your home’s sides.
There are many lap/channel siding grades, with the better grades being more expensive. The grade that you choose for your project will mostly depend on your budget, and the type of look you are hoping to achieve. The highest grading is clear heart, while A clear and select knotty are the next two grades.
Board and Batten Siding
Another siding profile that you may enjoy is board and batten siding. The main characteristic of this type of siding is a vertical design that is created by using wide clear or knotty cedar boards. These boards are spaced apart by using narrower boards to cover the join area. The combination creates a very beautiful and rustic look, but also ensures that your home’s sides are fully protected for many years to come.
Most of these boards that you get for board and batten siding are rough sawn and unseasoned. The top two grades are clear heart and A clear, similar to lap siding. The great thing about board and batten siding is that even if you go with the lower grades, such as proprietary and “standard and better,” you are getting a very unique and interesting look. For those who have a lower budget, but still want siding that can create a very unique and beautiful look, we believe that you will love what board and batten siding has to offer.
Ultimately, you have so many choices where siding is concerned. The main goal is to choose the best materials and designs for your home, and then get a great company to complete the installation. With siding, the installation matters a lot, so make sure you hire top pros for the job.