Types of Wood Siding for Your Home

Deciding on which wood siding to use can be a difficult endeavor.  This quick overview of styles should help you form a good jumping off point for more investigation.

Hardboard/Composition Board

Hardboard siding is created by using wood chips, fiber and resins to create large sheets.  These sheets can then be cut into various styles.  Hardboard is relatively inexpensive and durable as long as it is installed a few inches above ground level and properly sealed.

Shingles

Shingles can provide the nice shake look but are manufactured to size and are therefore much more even in size and appearance than shakes.  Shingles are rectangular in shape and are typically made from cedar.  The installation costs on shingles can be expensive since they are time consuming to install.  They are installed in an overlapping fashion like shingles on a roof and can be applied in a variety of patterns.

Clapboard

Clapboard is simply long wooden boards applies in an overlapping patter from the ground up.  They can be installed vertically as well but this is seen less often.  This is the typical wood siding look and it works with a variety of home styles.  The board can be made of a variety of wood types.

Plywood Siding

Plywood siding is straight forward and simple to apply and inexpensive.  The siding can come in a variety of wood types allowing for variation in texture.  If properly maintained, plywood siding can last for decades.

Shakes

Shakes are similar to shingles expect they are created by splitting logs.  As such, each shake is unique in size and shape.  As a result they are generally more expensive than shingles.  Shakes are prone to warping and splitting and must inspected regularly and the deteriorated ones replaced or repaired.  Although they are very attractive, they are not a good choice if you are looking for a low maintenance exterior.  Like shingles they can be expensive to install.

Tongue and Groove

This siding consists of boards that are designed to lock together.  The boards are manufactured in various widths with different grooves or patterns on them.  Tongue and groove is a good choice for vertical siding since they lock tightly together.

No matter which siding you choose, be sure to paint or stain it to protect it from the elements.  Also, inspect your siding at least annually to repair damage that may have been cause by the elements, machinery or otherwise.  Taking these simple steps will help your house look its best for years to come.

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