Is your home’s siding due for a change? With so many to choose from, it can be quite confusing. But do not worry, I will assist you in choosing the best vinyl siding styles.
You will take a much better decision if you learn a bit about the various vinyl siding styles and we will take a look at that on this page. For 2024, I will make your home look fantastic once you see 10 vinyl siding styles that are different. You will find out about the various appearances, textures, and styles.
There is a picture of each style, so you can use these to know what you love and what also looks good on your home. We will be going through the types of vinyl siding below: horizontal, vertical, shake/shingle, and fiber cement to choose from. We will also be showing you the advantages of each type.
Types Of Vinyl Siding
1. Horizontal siding
Horizontal siding is the most common type of vinyl siding. It has a clean and simple look that never goes out of style, even as tastes change.
There are many styles of horizontal siding, like Dutch Lap, Beaded, Traditional Lap, Clapboard, and Log-style, so you have lots of design options. While horizontal siding can get damaged by rain over time, this is mainly a problem with wood siding, not vinyl.
Wood siding can also get splinters, mold, and insect damage, which doesn’t happen with vinyl. Horizontal vinyl siding is cheaper and easier to install than vertical or shake siding. Also called clapboard or lap siding, it’s a long, narrow board placed across the house. It’s popular because it’s low maintenance, eco-friendly, and energy-efficient.
2. Vertical siding
Vertical siding, which was once mainly used on barns and farmhouses, is now being used on office buildings and is becoming popular with homeowners. This type of siding stands out from the usual horizontal styles you see in neighborhoods.
Vertical siding, especially with its board and batten design, has a stylish look that many people like. Installing it takes more time and preparation than horizontal siding.
There are many advantages: it looks like real wood, doesn’t need painting, is easy to maintain, and resists moisture and pests. It’s often combined with other types of siding like shakes or lap siding. The typical design includes boards and battens; for example, a common size is a 10″ board with a 2″ batten, making a 12″ wide panel.
3. Shakes & Shingles Siding
Shakes and shingles are easy to take care of and look great. You can use them to cover your whole house or just for decoration. Mixing shakes and shingles with other materials, like stone, makes your home look naturally beautiful and increases its curb appeal.
4. Clapboard Siding:
Clapboard siding features 4-inch wide planks that are nailed lengthwise. These planks have a wood-like texture and overlap each other, creating shadows that give a distinct and attractive profile to the exterior of a house. This style has been a staple in the United States since the Colonial Times, making it a popular choice for those who appreciate traditional home designs. The overlapping nature not only adds aesthetic value but also provides an additional layer of protection against the elements.
5. Traditional Lap Siding:
Traditional Lap siding uses wider planks, about 6 inches in width. Like clapboard, these planks overlap to create interesting shadow lines. This design is highly effective at shedding water, preventing moisture from seeping into the home, and thus protecting the interior surfaces. Traditional Lap siding is versatile and suits a variety of architectural styles, offering both functional benefits and visual appeal.
6. Dutch Lap Siding:
Dutch Lap siding is a more sophisticated version of Traditional Lap siding. It features a sharper bevel angle and deeper grooves, which create stronger shadows and a more pronounced texture. This enhanced contrast makes the exterior of a home look more dynamic and visually interesting. Dutch Lap siding is ideal for homeowners who want to add a touch of elegance and depth to their home’s facade.
7. Smooth Siding:
Smooth vinyl siding is particularly popular in modern homes due to its clean, sleek appearance. Unlike textured options, smooth siding has no grain or pattern, which gives it a minimalist and contemporary look. This style is easy to clean and maintain, making it a practical choice for busy homeowners who prefer a straightforward aesthetic.
8. Wood Grain Siding:
Wood Grain vinyl siding mimics the appearance of real wood, complete with the texture and look of stained wood. It comes in both horizontal and vertical orientations, offering flexibility in design. Despite its wood-like appearance, this siding is much more durable and requires less maintenance than actual wood. It’s an excellent option for those who love the look of wood but want the benefits of vinyl.
9. Beaded Seam Siding:
Beaded Seam vinyl siding is the most premium option available. It features a distinctive bead at the bottom of each plank, creating the deepest shadow lines and a unique, upscale look. This style adds a rich, elegant touch to any home and is often chosen for its high-end appearance and the significant visual impact it creates.
10. Board and Batten Siding:
Also known as barn siding, Board and Batten siding consists of wide vertical planks, up to 12 inches broad, with narrow battens covering the seams. This style is a subtype of vertical vinyl siding and is commonly used for its rustic, farmhouse charm. It provides a strong architectural statement and is perfect for those who want a bold, distinctive exterior.
11. Cedar Shake Siding:
Cedar Shake vinyl siding replicates the look of real cedar wood shakes, known for their rich, warm colors. However, natural cedar requires significant upkeep to maintain its appearance and prevent fading. Vinyl cedar shake offers the aesthetic benefits of cedar without the high maintenance, making it a more practical choice for busy homeowners.
12. Traditional Shake Siding:
Also referred to as straight edge shake, this type of siding is installed horizontally and creates straight, uniform shadow lines. This style maintains a consistent appearance even when textured planks are used, providing a neat and orderly look that suits a wide range of home designs.
13. Staggered Edge Siding:
Staggered Edge vinyl siding resembles hand-split shingles, creating a rugged and natural look. The complex shadow lines formed by the staggered edges add depth and character to a home’s exterior. This style is unique and visually striking, perfect for homeowners who want a distinctive and appealing facade.
14. Scalloped Siding:
Scalloped or fish-scale siding is ideal for those who love the charm of historic buildings. The scalloped edges create a picturesque, almost whimsical appearance that can add a touch of elegance and nostalgia to any home. This style is particularly effective for accenting gables and other architectural features.
15. Log Vinyl Siding:
Log vinyl siding is designed to mimic the look of real log cabins. While it is one of the more expensive options, it offers numerous benefits, such as resistance to mold, durability in harsh weather conditions, and long-lasting color retention. This siding provides a rustic, natural look that is perfect for creating a cozy, cabin-like feel.
Now that you have a detailed understanding of types vinyl siding styles, you can choose the one that best fits your aesthetic preferences and practical needs. Each type offers unique benefits and can enhance the look and functionality of your home’s exterior.