When choosing new replacement siding for your home, you may only think about the material and the color. But did you know that there are assorted styles of siding that can give your home a completely fresh look? One trending style is Dutch lap siding, which features a groove along the top edge that creates a shadow effect. Traditional siding is typically a flat panel that is installed with the bottom overlapping the top, creating a seam. Dutch lap siding adds a unique look to your home and can even give the illusion of depth, making your home feel more substantial.
What is Dutch Lap Siding?
Dutch lap siding is a type of siding that is popular in North America and Europe. It is also known as German or cove lap siding. Dutch lap siding is made by cutting a groove into one edge of a wooden board, which allows it to overlap the adjacent board, creating a distinctive shadow line. The overlapping design helps to protect the underlying wall from the elements, while also providing an attractive appearance. The term “Dutch” is used because this style of siding was commonly used in the Netherlands during the 17th century. Today, Dutch lap siding is still a popular choice for homeowners looking for a traditional and timeless look for their home’s exterior.
What is Traditional Lap Siding?
Traditional lap siding, also known as clapboard siding, is made up of long, narrow boards installed horizontally, with each overlapping board below it. The overlapping design helps to prevent water from penetrating the wall, while also providing an attractive appearance. Traditional lap siding can be made from a variety of materials, including wood, vinyl, and fiber cement. It is a popular choice for homeowners who want a classic, timeless look for their home’s exterior.
Dutch Lap vs Traditional Siding
When choosing between Dutch lap siding and traditional siding, it is essential to consider the thickness, durability, cost, maintenance, installation differences, as well as the appearance of each siding style. Read below for a breakdown of these differences.
Differences in Thickness Levels
The thickness of Dutch lap siding can vary depending on the material used and the manufacturer, but it is thicker than other types of siding. For example, wood Dutch lap siding is usually available in thicknesses ranging from 1/2 inch to 3/4 inch, while vinyl Dutch lap siding is typically around 0.04 to 0.05 inches thick. Fiber cement Dutch lap siding is usually around 5/16 inch to 7/16 inch thick. It is important to choose a thickness that is appropriate for the climate in your area and that will provide the necessary durability and protection for your home.
Traditional Lap Siding is typically thinner than Dutch lap siding, but that does not necessarily mean it is less durable. In fact, many manufacturers offer traditional lap siding with advanced coatings and treatments that make it just as weather resistant as thicker siding options.
Durability Differences: Are There Any?
The difference in durability is not much of a difference at all, because the real difference in durability is the material used. James Hardie fiber cement siding provides both traditional as well as Dutch lap siding products. This means that homeowners can enjoy the benefits of both styles while having the added advantage of a long-lasting, durable material. Fiber cement siding is resistant to harsh weather, pests, and fire, making it an excellent choice for homeowners who want to ensure the long-term protection of their homes. Additionally, James Hardie offers a variety of colors and styles, allowing homeowners to easily find the perfect match for their home’s aesthetic. With the combination of Dutch lap and traditional lap siding products, James Hardie fiber cement siding provides an ideal solution for homeowners looking for both style and durability.
Maintenance Differences
The maintenance requirements for traditional lap siding and Dutch lap siding are similar. Both types of siding need to be periodically cleaned to remove dirt, grime, and other debris that can accumulate on the surface. Also, both types of siding may need to be painted or stained periodically to protect the material and maintain its appearance.
One difference between traditional lap siding and Dutch lap siding is that the overlapping design of Dutch lap siding can make it slightly more difficult to clean than traditional lap siding. The grooves in the siding can trap dirt and debris, requiring more effort to thoroughly clean. Additionally, because Dutch lap siding typically has a more complex profile than traditional lap siding, it may be more difficult to paint or stain. However, these differences are relatively minor and both types of siding can be effectively maintained with regular cleaning and occasional painting or staining.
Installation Differences
Dutch lap siding has a slightly more complex profile than traditional lap siding, with a curved edge at the top of each board that creates a distinctive shadow line. This means that when installing Dutch lap siding, more attention must be paid to the placement of each board to ensure that the shadow line is consistent and aesthetically pleasing. Additionally, because Dutch lap siding overlaps each board, more care must be taken to ensure that the boards are properly aligned and spaced to create an even and attractive appearance.
Traditional lap siding, on the other hand, is simpler to install. Because the boards do not overlap, it is easier to ensure that each board is evenly spaced and aligned. However, traditional lap siding still requires careful installation to ensure that each board is securely fastened and properly aligned. Both types of siding can be installed horizontally or vertically, depending on the desired look and the specific requirements of the project.
Cost Differences
The cost of Dutch lap siding and traditional lap siding can vary depending on the material used, the thickness, and other factors such as location, availability, and installation costs. In general, Dutch lap siding may be slightly more expensive than traditional lap siding due to its more complex profile and overlapping design causing for a more detailed installation process and an installation crew that is skilled in installing this particular style of siding.
The Biggest Difference: Appearance in Style
Dutch lap siding has a more complex profile than traditional lap siding, with a curved edge at the top of each board that creates a shadow line. This shadow line gives Dutch lap siding a distinctive appearance that is often described as more elegant and refined than traditional lap siding. The overlapping design of Dutch lap siding also adds depth and texture to the siding, creating a more interesting and dynamic look.
Traditional lap siding, on the other hand, has a simpler profile and does not overlap. This gives traditional lap siding a more uniform and classic look that is often associated with more rustic or traditional homes. However, because traditional lap siding is simpler in design, it can be easier to blend in with a variety of architectural styles and can be a more versatile choice for homeowners who want a classic, understated look.
Which is the Right Style for Your Home? Dutch Lap vs Traditional.
Deciding on whether to go for tradition lap siding or Dutch lap siding for your home will come down to your personal preference and aesthetic goals. If you want a more elegant and refined look with added depth and texture, then Dutch lap siding will be the perfect option. However, if you prefer a classic, understated look that can be versatile enough to match with a variety of architectural styles, traditional lap siding may be the better choice. Ultimately, the decision comes down to the style you want to achieve and the budget you’re working with.
James Hardie Fiber Cement Experts Ready to Take on Your Project
James Hardie fiber cement siding is world renowned for their high-quality siding options. Their siding is made from a blend of Portland cement, sand, and cellulose fibers, which helps it withstand extreme weather conditions, resulting in siding that is both durable and long-lasting. James Hardie siding comes in a variety of styles and finishes, including Dutch lap and traditional lap. With a commitment to sustainability and a reputation for producing high-quality products, James Hardie is a popular choice for homeowners looking for the best fiber cement siding.
DaBella has been installing James Hardie Siding products since we opened in 2011. Our expert installation crews are knowledgeable and experienced in working with both traditional lap and Dutch lap siding styles, and can help you determine which option is best for your home. We understand that choosing the right siding for your home is an important decision, and we are committed to providing our customers with the highest quality products and customer service.
Contact DaBella today to schedule a consultation and take the first step towards enhancing the beauty and durability of your home with James Hardie fiber cement siding.
