Lap Siding is one of the most popular siding options that is a somewhat generic term and is often used interchangeably with clapboard and dutch lap. Lap siding is horizontal cladding that uses broad planks or boards with a slight wedge shape when viewed from the side. Many homeowners like the look and dimension or depth that the lap siding provides and the versatility of style homes that it can be applied to.
Basics Of Lap Siding
Lap differs from clapboard in that the boards used are larger (although they are often used to refer to the same product). Lap siding has a slight wedge shape to the boards, with the more narrow end at the top. This allows the board to nestle under the board above it. The concept was orignially create to help reduce moisture or rain from getting under the cladding. Today, the moisture protection wrap underneath the siding has alot to do with keeping out the elements, but the ability of the cladding to shed watter is certainly a positive. Lap siding differs from Dutch lap siding, which have more of an overlap from board to board so that the bottom of each panel extends out in a more pronounced manner.
Lap Siding Prices
Entry To Mid Range: $3.25 – $4.75 psf
Consumers can expect to spend $325 to $475 per square installed.
Mid Range To High End: $4.75 – $6.00 psf
Consumers can expect to spend $475 to $600 per square installed. Learn More On lap siding cost
Advantages Of Lap Siding
Distinctive Appearance
Lap siding has a distinctive appearance that many homeowners find very appealing and charming. The top overlap of the boards creates shadow and visual depth that draws your eye to walls. Of course, this is only a positive with quality siding installation – if the job is poorly done it can bring attention to the home in a negative way.
Versatile Style
This type of cladding can be used on a wide range of home styles, from modern to traditional to classic architecture. While wood was the original material, today there are a number of material options, including vinyl, engineered wood, composites and fiber cement siding.
Stronger Than Straight Cladding
There is debate on this point, but many installers claim that lap siding is stronger due to the reinforcement of each panel by the overlapping board. The effect is a more rigid wall that will not bend or buckle as easily as a normal vinyl siding for instance.
Overlap Can Eliminate Waviness
The overlap keeps the boards more rigid, which can cut down or eliminate any waviness or bend in the long boards. This creates a more uniform and straight wall, which obviously helps make for a stronger and more aesthetically pleasing exterior.
Related Topics
Board And Battens
Engineered Wood
Vinyl Products & Models
