Choosing Between Vertical And Horizontal Siding

When it comes to upgrading your home’s exterior, choosing the right siding is one of the most important decisions you’ll make. Siding is not only a key component of your home’s aesthetic appeal, but it also plays a significant role in protecting your home from the elements. In this guide, we’ll explore the pros and cons of both vertical and horizontal siding, and help you make an informed decision for your home.

Aesthetic Appeal: Stand Out or Blend In?
One of the most significant differences between vertical and horizontal siding is their aesthetic appeal. Vertical siding panels are often favored for their unconventional look, which can elongate homes and make them stand out from the crowd. However, this break from the norm isn’t for everyone. If you live in a traditional neighborhood and want to blend in with your surroundings, then horizontal siding may be the better choice for you. At Exterior Home Solutions LLC, we specialize in helping homeowners find the right siding for their homes while balancing personal preference and neighborhood style.

Ease of Installation: Straightforward vs. Specialist
Horizontal siding is more common in residential homes, which means that the installation process is more straightforward for most siding professionals. However, vertical siding requires more steps in its installation process. Before your siding professional can install vertical panels, a layer of furring strips must be laid horizontally underneath to level and smooth the surface. If you opt for board and batten siding, which is often seen in commercial and industrial buildings, the process will be even more complex. While the final result of vertical siding may be the same as horizontal siding, the specialist nature of the vertical orientation may incur a higher charge from your siding professional.

Cost: Materials and Installation
As with any home improvement project, the cost of siding will vary according to the materials used and the difficulty of installation. Steel siding, for example, is a heavy material that is not often seen in residential settings and will cost more than vinyl or wooden siding panels. At Exterior Home Solutions LLC, we work closely with our clients to find the right siding solution for their needs and budget.

Durability: Standing the Test of Time
Both horizontal and vertical siding panels can be durable, depending on the craftsmanship of your siding professional and the materials used. Fiber cement and metal are among the most durable siding materials and will stand the test of time. One downside to horizontal siding is the potential for rainwater to leak underneath the strips, leading to mold and mildew growth and expensive water damage. Vertical siding panels have fewer instances of this kind of water damage because any water that hits the surface of the panels drops immediately to the ground.

Maintenance: Regular Care is Key
Regular maintenance is essential for any type of siding, but it will vary according to the materials used for your exterior. Vinyl siding requires the least maintenance because it does not require painting or frequent replacing, and it has a straightforward cleaning process. Wood siding, on the other hand, will warp over time and requires careful and regular care to maintain the look and function of your siding panels. Horizontal panels have a larger potential for water leakage during cleaning and therefore require a more complex cleaning regimen. Vertical siding panels can be cleaned easily with a power washer and household cleaners without the worry of leakage.

Conclusion: Let Exterior Home Solutions LLC Help You Find the Perfect Siding Solution
Choosing between vertical and horizontal siding ultimately comes down to personal preference, budget, and neighborhood style. At Exterior Home Solutions LLC, we understand that upgrading your home’s exterior can be overwhelming. That’s why we’re here to help. Our expert contractors will work with you to find the right siding solution for your needs, so you can enjoy a beautiful and durable exterior for years to come. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step towards your home’s new look.