Choosing Between Vertical and Horizontal Siding Installation

If you’re contemplating getting new siding for your home or are in the midst of constructing a new one, it’s crucial to weigh all your options. While vertical siding and horizontal siding each offer their advantages, many homeowners remain uncertain about which option suits them best. To assist you in making your decision, there are several factors you should consider.

Whether you prefer a traditional or modern style, or if you aim to blend in or stand out, these are some of the questions homeowners grapple with when deciding on the best siding design for their home. Getting the look right can significantly enhance curb appeal, but it requires careful consideration. Even the choice between horizontal and vertical siding must be made thoughtfully. These decisions can feel daunting, especially for those who aren’t design experts.

WHAT IS HORIZONTAL SIDING?

This design, often called lap siding, involves hanging exterior boards horizontally from left to right. Historically, natural wood boards were commonly used for this style, so you’ve probably seen it on many homes.

ADVANTAGES

Affordability: this siding style is typically more affordable than its vertical counterpart, making it a great choice if you’re working with a tight budget, renovating a rental property, or flipping a house.

Traditional appearance: throughout history, lap siding has remained the most recognizable aesthetic for houses, retaining its timeless appeal.

Easy application: horizontal siding is simpler and quicker to install than vertical siding, saving you time.

DISADVANTAGES

Can be less durable: horizontal siding features ridges where the boards overlap horizontally, which can allow rain to trickle in. For wood siding, this can lead to issues like wood rot, mold, and mildew.

Can be harder to clean: Due to its susceptibility to water damage, lap siding requires extra care during cleaning to prevent moisture from seeping behind the boards.

WHAT IS VERTICAL SIDING?

This aesthetic is achieved by arranging siding planks in a vertical top-to-bottom fashion. It’s often seen as more contemporary than horizontal lap siding because it has only gained popularity for residential homes in recent years. However, it has a historical presence in commercial structures and buildings such as barns, so you may have encountered it before.

ADVANTAGES

Unique: vertical designs, not as commonly seen on homes as lap siding, offer a unique opportunity to enhance curb appeal with a distinct look that sets your house apart from others on the block.

Trendy: vertical siding allows you to create the popular and distinctive board-and-batten look, which is highly favored by homeowners across the nation.

Simple to clean: water flows smoothly down the vertical planks, reaching the ground where it can drain away safely. This makes it easy to rinse off dirt and lowers the risk of wood rot in your home.

DISADVANTAGES

Longer installation time: installing vertical siding involves more steps than its horizontal counterpart. This includes fitting an underlayer known as furring strips, which helps even out the surface and gives the vertical siding a smooth and streamlined appearance.

More costly: because installing vertical siding is a more intricate process, it requires additional time and expertise, which in turn increases the labor costs to ensure it’s done properly.

Potential challenge when selling your home: vertical siding can make a striking statement, but it may not appeal to all potential homebuyers. If you’re considering selling your home soon, it could be beneficial to consult with a realtor beforehand to determine whether vertical siding is a good fit for your neighborhood.

WHICH IS RIGHT FOR YOU?

Horizontal siding, while reasonably durable, can become increasingly susceptible to damage from rain or water over time. Moisture tends to accumulate in horizontal edges, potentially requiring more frequent replacement. In contrast, with horizontal siding, water easily slides off, reducing concerns about longevity issues.

When deciding on the siding for their home, homeowners often have to decide between vertical siding or horizontal siding. Some may opt to choose vertical siding for a modernized look, while others prefer the classic appeal of horizontal siding structure resistant. The answer to this question depends on various factors, including the architectural style of the house and the homeowner’s personal preferences. Before making a decision, it’s essential to review the local climate and consider factors like water resistance and cost. Whether installed horizontally or vertically, a siding project can greatly enhance the appearance and durability of a home.