Best Wood Siding Options: 7 Types to Choose From
When it comes time to replace the siding on your home, you have many options. One of the most popular choices is wood siding. Wood has been used for siding for centuries, and there are many reasons why it is still a favorite choice today. Some wood siding is designed for vertical installation. Others, such as clapboards, shingles, or shakes, are installed horizontally. In BC, Canada, cedar and redwood are the most preferred wood siding options.
This article presents an overview of the most popular wood siding styles followed by the most commonly used types of woods in BC, Canada.
7 Styles of Wood Siding
Lap Siding
Lap siding (also known as Clapboard) is a popular choice for home exteriors because it is attractive and easy to install. It is made of horizontal boards that overlap at the edges, creating a water-resistant barrier. It originates its name from this act of overlapping. Wood lap siding requires regular maintenance, such as painting or staining, to protect it from moisture and insects. Caulking may be necessary to reduce weather damage.
Drop Channel Siding
Drop channel siding is a type of lap siding with a groove or channel cut into the bottom edge of each board. This allows the boards fit together snugly, creating a water-resistant seal. Drop channel siding is versatile in that it can be installed vertically, diagonally, or horizontally. One advantage is that it allows room for expansion and contraction of the wood without interfering with its structure. It is easy to install and requires regular maintenance, including power washing, sealing, and painting.
Tongue-and-Groove Siding
Tongue-and-groove siding is a type of siding that is characterized by its interlocking boards. The boards fit together like puzzle pieces, with the tongue of one board fitting into the groove of the next. The tongue and groove interlock, creating contact for the entire length of each wood. This method can be designed in a horizontal, vertical, or diagonal direction. It may be applied in a smooth or rough cut and looks best with knotty pine or clear wood.
Split Logs
With the natural bark attached, split log siding is made from hardwoods like cedar, oak, or cypress. The sawed section of the log is attached to a prepared wall to create the appearance of solid logs. It is important to note that the logs will contract and expand with changes in temperature and humidity, so proper installation is essential. Like every other wood siding, maintenance is mandatory and includes filling spaces and regular spraying.
Board-and-Batten
Board-and-batten siding is a type of exterior siding consisting of wide boards spaced apart and then covered with narrow strips of wood, called battens. This allows the wood to contract and expand as needed without damaging the wall. This type of siding was traditionally used on barns and other agricultural buildings. Still, it has become increasingly popular in recent years to add rustic charm to houses and other structures.
Shake Siding
Shake siding is popular for people who want to add a natural look to their homes. It is an exterior siding made from split logs or pieces of wood. The shakes are then installed on the house in an overlapping pattern starting from the bottom. They are known for their rougher aesthetic and durability.
Shingle Siding
Shingle siding is popular for many homeowners because it is attractive and relatively easy to install. Shingles are simply small pieces of wood that are cut into a uniform size and shape. They are installed on the house’s exterior, starting at the bottom and working up. One of the benefits of shingle siding is that it is very versatile and can be used in various home styles. In addition, shingles are available in a wide range of colors and textures, so it is easy to find an option that will complement your home’s existing decor.
Types of Wood Commonly Used for Siding
There are a few different types of wood that are commonly used for siding, including:
- Cedar: Cedar is a popular choice for siding because it is naturally resistant to rot and insect damage. It is also a relatively lightweight wood, which makes it easy to work with. Cedar siding can be stained or painted, available in various styles.
- Redwood: Like cedar, redwood is resistant to rot and insect damage. It is a bit heavier than cedar, but it is still easy to work with. Redwood siding can be left unfinished or stained/painted to match your home’s exterior.
- Pine: Pine is a softwood that is commonly used for siding. It is relatively lightweight and easy to work with but is not as durable as cedar or redwood. Pine siding can be stained or painted and is available in various styles.
- Fir: Fir is another softwood that is commonly used for siding. It is similar to pine in terms of its weight and ease of workability, but it is slightly more durable. Fir siding can be stained or painted and is available in various styles.
- Cypress: Cypress is a hardwood that is often used for siding. It is more durable than pine or fir and resistant to rot and insect damage. Cypress siding can be stained or painted, and it is available in various styles.
- Spruce: Spruce is a softwood that is commonly used for siding. It is similar to pine in terms of its weight and ease of workability, but it is slightly more durable. Spruce siding can be stained or painted and available in various styles.
Why Choose Western Red Cedar Siding
Western red cedar siding is one of the most popular choices for wood siding. It is durable and rot-resistant, and it has a beautiful reddish hue that ages to a silver-gray over time. Western red cedar siding can be left natural or stained, available in various styles.
Looking for high-quality western red cedar siding? Look no further than Longhouse Cedar. Longhouse Cedar is a leading provider of cedar siding, and we offer a wide range of styles and options. Our team of experts can help you find the perfect choice for your home. Click here to learn more about our cedar products, or call us at 1-800-811-2010.
We’re here to help you!