The right siding profile can make the difference between a plain exterior and an extraordinary one — and can even impact its functionality and overall value. In today’s post, siding contractor Shine Construction Inc. shares a guide to choosing the ideal siding profile for your home.
Horizontal Siding Profile
Horizontal siding features long, parallel boards or panels that run horizontally along your home’s exterior. It’s versatile, suits a wide range of architectural styles and provides a timeless appearance. Within this category, you’ll find various styles, including:
- Traditional lap siding, also known as clapboard siding, is the “classic” horizontal siding style, with overlapping horizontal boards.
- Dutch lap siding has a distinctive beveled edge, which creates shadow lines on a mostly flat surface.
- Beaded siding features a decorative groove or bead between the boards that add texture and visual interest.
Vertical Siding Profile
Vertical siding features boards or panels that run vertically. This makes vertical siding suitable for houses that need emphasis on height, and can be combined with their horizontal counterparts during siding replacement for contrast. Vertical siding also works well on industrial or minimalist designs, as well as traditional ones like barnhouse-style homes. The following are two popular examples of vertical siding.
- Vertical panel siding offers a sleek and modern appearance, often used in contemporary and minimalist styles.
- Board and batten siding alternates wide vertical boards with narrow strips called battens. This style creates a rustic and visually appealing look, often seen on barns and farmhouses.
Shake Siding Profile
Shake siding traditionally made of hand-split wood shakes or shingles, though manufactured options made from materials like vinyl and fiber cement are also available. They are often used in cottage-style homes but can also be used in any other home style that requires a rustic effect.
- Square shakes offer a clean and classic look with straight edges and consistent sizing.
- Round shakes have rounded edges that create a fish-scale look.
- Staggered shakes have uneven widths that create a textured and handmade look.
How to Choose the Right Siding Profile
Given the choices described above, you’re probably wondering how to pick the siding that’s right for your home. Here are some tips to get you started.
- Choose the siding profile that fits your home’s architectural style. Some home styles require specific exterior elements for an authentic look.
- Determine your budget upfront. Materials and labor vary between siding profiles.
- Consider the maintenance requirements. Some siding profiles are easier to clean and maintain than others. Make it a point to include this aspect when comparing siding options.
Our team at Shine Construction Inc. can help you narrow down the siding profile that’s best for your home. Count on us for your other home improvement needs as well, including roof and window replacement. Give us a call at (508) 278-3300, or fill out our contact form to schedule an appointment.
