Siding is an essential component of any home’s exterior, providing protection from the elements and enhancing its overall appearance. However, not all siding is created equal. When it comes to choosing the right siding for your home, one of the most important decisions you will need to make is what material of siding is best as well as vertical or horizontal siding. Each option offers its own set of benefits and drawbacks, and the choice you make will have a significant impact on your home’s curb appeal and functionality. In this article, we will take a closer look at vertical and horizontal siding and provide you with the information you need to make an informed decision for your home, and which is best for aesthetic of your home.
Horizontal Siding
To start, let us take a closer look at horizontal siding. This type of siding is the most common choice for homeowners and has been around for centuries. Horizontal siding is installed in a series of overlapping rows, with each row slightly overlapping the one below it. This creates a classic, traditional look that works well in most architectural styles. Horizontal siding is also easy to install and comes in a wide range of materials, including James Hardie fiber cement. However, horizontal siding can be prone to moisture-related issues if not installed correctly and may require more maintenance than vertical siding due to its orientation. This is why it is essential to work with a professional siding contractor to ensure that your siding is installed properly.
Vertical Siding
Vertical siding is installed vertically, with each board or panel placed one above the other. This orientation gives homes a unique and modern look that works particularly well on contemporary and modern architectural styles. Vertical siding comes in a variety of materials, also including James Hardie fiber cement, and is often used to accentuate certain features of a home, such as a chimney or a gable.
What are the Pros and Cons of Vertical and Horizontal Siding?
Here we will touch on the pros and cons of both vertical and horizontal siding and help you decide which siding is the best for you and your homes aesthetic.
Pros of Vertical Siding
- Vertical siding offers a distinct and modern look that can enhance the aesthetic appeal of your home. It is particularly well-suited for contemporary and modern architectural styles.
- The vertical orientation of the siding can visually enhance the height of your home, making it appear taller. It also allows you to emphasize vertical architectural features such as gables, columns, or chimneys.
- Vertical siding has better moisture resistance compared to horizontal siding. With proper installation, it can effectively shed water and minimize the risk of moisture-related issues, such as rot or mold growth.
- Vertical siding is generally more resistant to impacts and weather elements such as wind and hail when compared to horizontal siding. This can contribute to its longevity and reduce the need for frequent repairs or replacements.
Cons of Vertical Siding
- Installing vertical siding can be more challenging and time-consuming compared to horizontal siding. Specialized techniques and additional care may be required to ensure proper alignment and prevent moisture infiltration.
- Vertical siding can sometimes be more expensive than horizontal siding due to the additional labor and complexity involved in the installation process. The overall cost will depend on factors such as material choice, home size, and geographical location.
- Certain accessories and trims, such as vents or light fixtures, may be more challenging to find or install with vertical siding due to its unique orientation. This might require extra planning and coordination during the installation process and the know how to make these accessories work.
Pros of Horizontal Siding:
- Horizontal siding is a popular choice for many homes and can provide a classic and traditional look that suits various architectural styles.
- Horizontal siding is available in a wide range of materials, colors, and textures, providing many design options for homeowners to choose from. This versatility makes it easier to match the aesthetic of your home and surrounding environment.
- Horizontal siding is easier and faster to install compared to vertical siding due to its straightforward design and installation process.
- Many accessories and trims, such as vents, light fixtures, and shutters, are readily available and compatible with horizontal siding. This makes it easier to customize and accessorize your home’s exterior.
Cons of Horizontal Siding
- Horizontal siding, while popular, can present certain challenges. The horizontal ridges where the boards overlap can allow rainwater to trickle in, leading to moisture damage such as wood rot, mold, and mildew, especially for wood siding. Fortunately, homeowners can prevent these issues by choosing James Hardie® fiber cement siding, which is renowned for its durability and resistance to rot.
- However, cleaning horizontal siding can also prove challenging, as the same overlapping design can make it harder to prevent moisture from getting behind the boards. As a result, proper care and maintenance are crucial to keep horizontal siding looking its best and avoid costly repairs.
Mixing Vertical and Horizontal Siding on a Home
Mixing vertical and horizontal siding on a home can create a unique and dynamic exterior look. By using different textures, colors, and materials, homeowners can achieve a customized and personalized style that sets their home apart from others in the neighborhood.
For instance, using vertical siding on the gables or dormers and horizontal siding on the main body of the house can add visual interest and break up the monotony of a single siding style. Additionally, using contrasting colors or materials can create an eye-catching and appealing facade.
However, it is important to strike a balance between the different siding styles and materials to ensure that the final result is cohesive and aesthetically pleasing. Consulting with a professional siding contractor or designer can help homeowners explore their options and create a custom exterior design that meets their specific needs and preferences.
Need Help with Your Siding Project? DaBella & James Hardie Have You Covered
If you are ready to upgrade your home’s siding, look no further than DaBella and James Hardie. With DaBella’s experience and expertise, we can help you choose the perfect siding material and design to match your home’s style and needs. Plus, with James Hardie’s durable fiber cement siding, you can rest easy knowing that your home is protected from moisture damage, rot, and pests.
James Hardie fiber cement siding can come in either horizontal or vertical installation, which means that homeowners have the option to choose the best fit for their homes. Many homeowners choose James Hardie siding for its durability and resistance to moisture-related issues, making it a great solution for a home’s exterior. Additionally, James Hardie siding comes in a variety of textures and finishes, allowing homeowners to ensure their exterior portrays the desired look. The ability to customize the aesthetics of James Hardie siding makes it an excellent choice for homeowners looking for high-quality durable siding that can also be personalized to fit their style.
Contact DaBella today to start your siding project and achieve the custom exterior look you have always wanted. Our trained experts can provide you with a free consultation to discuss your options and help you select the perfect siding material for your home. From there, our professional installation team will get to work transforming your home’s exterior into a stunning and durable masterpiece. With James Hardie siding and DaBella’s commitment to quality and excellence, your home will be the envy of the neighborhood. Do not wait any longer to create the home of your dreams – contact DaBella today.
