When it comes to choosing the perfect look for your home's exterior, vinyl siding offers a wide range of options to suit any style or preference. From traditional horizontal panels to modern vertical designs, there's a vinyl siding style that can complement your home's architecture and enhance curb appeal. Let's explore the different types of vinyl siding available, helping you make an informed decision on the best option for your home's unique aesthetic needs.Traditional Lap
The most common vinyl siding type, traditional lap siding, overlaps horizontal boards starting at the bottom. The 6-inch to 7-inch planks are wedge-shaped and are more narrow at the top than at the bottom. Traditional lap siding protects your home because it sheds water efficiently. Clapboard
Clapboard siding is a traditional method of siding a house, first introduced in colonial times. It is usually referred to as lap siding or horizontal siding. Clapboard siding boards are long, narrow, and measure around 4 inches. The siding planks overlap top to bottom, and they are also designed to look like wood in texture and profile. The overlap of planks creates a shadow line, creating an interesting profile. Clapboard offers a more subtle look than other overlapping vinyl house siding options.Dutch Lap
If you like your siding with a bit more character, Dutch lap is the way to go. With a distinctive beveled edge, this style creates a deeper shadow line between planks, offering a hand-carved look. The planks are usually 4 or 5 inches wide and designed to create a hand-carved look. Dutch lap is installed by section instead of by plank.
Smooth
Smooth vinyl siding has no textured surface. They are a popular choice for modern homes because they offer a clean look. Because they have no texture on the surface, they might be more likely to show scratches. You will need to stay on top of maintenance. Board & Batten
Board & Batten vinyl siding is the widest option at 12 inches. They can be installed vertically or horizontally. A narrow strip of wood is nailed over the gap between the boards to cover it. Wood Grain
Want the look of real wood but without the hassle? Wood grain vinyl siding gives your home a natural, stained wood appearance. Available in horizontal and vertical installation, this vinyl siding looks like wood that has been stained. It is more durable than wood because it will not absorb moisture and rot.Beaded Seam
Beaded seam vinyl siding offers an elegant design and interesting shadow line. These horizontal panels have a rounded bead or a ridge along the bottom edge. The beaded seam adds interest to the flat, more traditional profiles. Cedar Shake
Did you know cedar shake siding used to be made by hand? Woodsmen would have to chop cedar logs lengthwise to form the wedge-shaped sections of cedar. The sections would then be attached to the wall. The problem with real cedar is that it dries out and needs to be re-stained every few years.
A great way around this is vinyl cedar shake siding. The vinyl siding will look like real wood but avoids all the maintenance.
Traditional Shake
Also known as straight-edge siding, it displays straight shadow lines once installed. The edges are straight, even if the planks are textured.
Hand-Split Shakes
Hand-split or staggered edges are similar to cedar shakes. The staggered shingles provide complex shadow lines. Each panel is typically made distinct to provide a truly unique look.
Half-Round (Scalloped)
Half-round and other shaped vinyl siding offer an attractive look that will catch your neighbor's eye. Sometimes known as fish scale siding, it offers an alternative to more traditional vinyl siding. They are especially nice in gables and look great with a low-gloss finish.
Log Cabin Vinyl
Log cabin vinyl siding gives you the unique look of a log cabin. Real logs would be expensive and require maintenance. Much like wood grain or cedar shake, you can enjoy the look without the maintenance, and at a lower cost.
Choose Your Favorite
Vinyl siding provides an elegant look with little maintenance. It is much more affordable than materials like wood and metal. Decide what style of vinyl siding fits your home exterior the best.
When choosing the right vinyl siding, remember to consider factors such as climate, color preference, and the style of your home before making a decision. Take your time, do your research, and soon enough, you'll have a beautiful and durable exterior that enhances the charm of your home for years to come. Ready to upgrade your home's look? Reach out to a trusted vinyl siding expert at Modern Builders Supply and Home Improvement Supply today to explore options and get started with your transformation!