Lap board siding

Types of Lap Board Siding

Lap board siding, also known as lap siding or horizontal siding, is a type of exterior home siding installed by lapping one board over the next. The design allows rainwater to run off the surface. This siding comes in different materials, each offering unique durability, aesthetic, and maintenance characteristics. Here are the materials used in lap board siding:

• Wood Lap Siding

  Timber lap siding has been a popular choice for builders and homeowners because of its natural beauty. This lap board siding comes in various species, such as cedar, redwood, pine, and spruce. Cedar and redwood are well-known for their resistance to decay and insects. They can also be customized to fit different textures and finishes. Pine, being a more affordable option, is often treated with preservatives to enhance its durability. Wood lap siding is usually measured in linear feet. For instance, a 12-foot long board may cover 9-1/4 inches of exposure, which equals 11.5 square feet. An important thing to note is that wood lap siding requires regular maintenance, such as occasional painting or staining, to preserve its appearance and durability.

• Vinyl Lap Siding

  Vinyl lap siding is a popular choice for homeowners because it is less expensive and requires little maintenance. It is manufactured from polyvinyl chloride (PVC) material. This PVC material is designed to look like wood or other materials. Vinyl lap siding comes in a variety of styles and colors that imitate wood. These styles include clapboard, colonial, and dutch lap. Vinyl lap siding is preferred by many because it is resistant to rot, insects, and moisture. It also does not require painting since it comes in a variety of pre-made colors. Vinyl lap siding is measured in square feet. For example, a standard 12-foot long board may cover 5-3/4 inches of exposure, which equals 10.53 square feet.

• Metal Lap Siding

  Metal lap siding is manufactured from steel or aluminum. It is a durable and modern siding option that is usually preferred for commercial buildings. Metal lap siding is popular for many buildings because it is resistant to rust, fire, and extreme weather conditions. It is also available in various finishes, including painted, galvanized, and coated options. These finishes provide both aesthetic appeal and additional protection against the elements. Metal lap siding is measured in square feet. For instance, a standard 12-foot long board may cover 6 inches of exposure, which equals 10.67 square feet.

• Fiber Cement Lap Siding

  Fiber cement lap siding is manufactured from a mixture of cement, sand, and cellulose fibers. It is a durable and popular siding choice for many homeowners. Fiber cement lap siding is popular for many homes because it mimics the look of wood or shingles. It is also resistant to rot, insects, and fire. This type of siding is available in pre-painted colors or can be painted by homeowners during installation. Fiber cement lap siding is also measured in square feet. For instance, a standard 12-foot long board may cover 4-1/2 inches of exposure, which equals 12 square feet.

Function and feature of lap board siding

• Appearance

  Lap board siding comes in various materials, including wood, vinyl, fiber cement, and engineered wood. Each material offers different aesthetic options, from traditional wood lap siding to modern vinyl or fiber cement options.

• Durability

  Depending on the kind of lap board siding, it can be very durable. For example, vinyl and fiber cement are known for their long-lasting characteristics, while metal lap siding is also very durable and requires minimal maintenance. Even wooden lap siding can be made very durable with proper installation and regular maintenance.

• Protection

  Lap board siding offers different types of protection depending on the material. Vinyl and fiber cement are often chosen for their ability to resist water. They are also resistant to rot and insects. Metal lap siding offers excellent weather resistance, and even wood lap siding, when properly installed and maintained, can offer good water resistance.

• Insulation

  Some types of lap board siding provide insulation or can be combined with insulation materials. Vinyl and fiber cement lap siding can be installed with insulated backings that enhance energy efficiency. Additionally, the density and thickness of certain materials, such as wood lap siding, can also contribute to their insulating properties.

• Maintenance

  Different types of lap board siding have different maintenance needs. Vinyl lap board siding is very easy to maintain because it only needs to be washed. Fiber cement and metal siding also require very little maintenance. In contrast, wood lap siding needs regular painting or staining to keep it in good condition.

• Environmental impact

  Lap board siding is manufactured with different materials that have different environmental impacts. Vinyl is a petroleum-based product, but it has a long lifespan. Fiber cement is made from natural materials, and its durability means it has a lower environmental impact over its lifespan. Metal siding is made from recyclable materials, and wood lap siding comes from trees. Sustainable forestry practices reduce the environmental impact of using wood.

Scenarios of Lap board siding

Aside from the architectural styles mentioned above, there are other applications of lap siding, including:

• Residential homes: Lapboard siding is used on residential houses to improve aesthetics. It is also functional, providing long-lasting protection to the house and requiring minimal maintenance.
• Commercial buildings: Aside from residential homes, lap siding is also used on commercial buildings. It provides an appealing visual to commercial spaces while still being functional.
• Vacation cabins and cottages: Lap siding is a popular choice for vacation cabins and cottages due to its rustic and natural appearance. It blends well with the surrounding environment and offers a cozy and inviting feel. Additionally, it requires minimal maintenance and is easy to install, making it a convenient choice for these types of structures.
• Coastal and beach houses: Lapboard siding is also used on coastal and beach houses. It is a popular choice for coastal homes because it can withstand harsh weather conditions, including strong winds and saltwater exposure. Additionally, lap siding is durable and requires minimal maintenance, which is ideal for homes located in coastal areas.
• Historical restoration projects: Lap siding is used in historical restoration projects to maintain the original architectural style and design of the building being restored. It is done to match the historical structure's existing siding to ensure authenticity during the restoration process.
• Mobile homes: Lap siding is a popular choice for mobile homes because it is lightweight and easy to install. It is also durable and requires minimal maintenance, making it an ideal choice for mobile homes.

How to Choose Lap Board Siding

Choosing the right lap siding for a house requires careful consideration and evaluation. Here are some factors that homeowners should consider before choosing lap siding for their homes.

• Consider the material

  Materials used to construct lap siding for homes are various and each comes with its unique advantages and disadvantages. Engineered wood lap siding mimics the appearance of natural wood but is more durable and requires less maintenance. Traditional wood lap siding comes in different styles and finishes and is customizable but requires regular maintenance to protect it from moisture and pests. Vinyl lap siding is low-maintenance and comes in various colors and styles. It is also durable and affordable. Aluminum siding is lightweight, durable, and resistant to rust. It is also available in various colors. Fiber cement siding is made from a mixture of cement, sand, and cellulose fibers. It mimics the look of wood and is highly durable. It is also resistant to rot, insects, and fire. Asphalt siding is made from a mixture of asphalt and mineral-based materials. It is durable, weather-resistant, and low-maintenance.

• Style and aesthetics

  Homeowners should consider the architectural style of their homes when choosing lap siding. This ensures that the siding complements the design of the house. They should also consider the color of the lap siding to ensure it matches the color scheme of their homes. Additional, they should look for textures of siding such as smooth, and rough that appeal to them.

• Durability and lifespan

  Homeowners should consider the expected lifespan of the siding materials. This is as a result of the impact on long-term costs and maintenance. Additionally, they should look for lap siding that is resistant to rot, pests, and extreme weather conditions. This is because it enhances the durability of the siding.

• Installation process

  Some types of lap siding require professional installation. This makes it more costly than siding that homeowners can install by themselves. Homeowners should choose siding that is within their budget for professional installation.

• Environmental impact

  Homeowners who are environmentally conscious should consider the environmental impact of the materials used in constructing the siding. They should choose lap siding that is made from sustainable materials. Additionally, they should consider the siding's durability and its ability to be recycled at the end of its lifespan.

• Availability and cost

  Homeowners should consider the cost of the siding materials and choose those that are within their budget. They should also consider the availability of the siding in their local area. This is because it determines the shipping costs and time required to obtain the materials.

Lap Board Siding Q & A

Q1: What is the lifespan of lap board siding?

A1: The lifespan depends on the material. Lap vinyl siding lasts for about 60 years, while wood lap siding has a lifespan of 40 years. Fiber cement siding also lasts for 50 to 60 years. As such, these lap board sidings provide long-term value.

Q2: Is lap siding easy to install?

A2: Vinyl siding is the easiest to install because it is lightweight. Fiber cement siding is also relatively easy to install, but it requires special tools. Lap wood siding requires skill and experience to install. Overall, all lap sidings are easy to replace and repair.

Q3: How does lap siding compare to vertical siding?

A3: Lap siding is more popular than vertical siding because it is more resistant to moisture. It also offers better protection against wind damage. Lap siding is also more aesthetically pleasing than vertical siding.

Q4: Does lap board siding require maintenance?

A4: All types of lap siding require maintenance. Vinyl siding requires the least maintenance, while wood siding requires more maintenance. Generally, the maintenance of lap siding is simple. It involves cleaning and occasional repainting.

Q5: Can lap siding be installed over existing siding?

A5: Yes, lap siding can be installed over existing siding. However, this depends on the type of siding being installed. In most cases, it is recommended to install lap siding on a solid surface. As such, homeowners can decide to install lap siding over existing siding if it is a solid surface.