Both vertical and horizontal siding installation are great ways to improve the look, energy efficiency and overall condition of your home. One important question many homeowners face when choosing the best material and installation style for their new siding is whether vertical or horizontal installation is most appropriate. This guide offers a detailed overview of the pros and cons of each style choice.
What Are The Different Siding Options?
The siding material may play a small role in determining whether vertical or horizontal siding installation is the best solution. While additional options may be available for homeowners, four of the primary siding materials that are commonly used for residential homes are:
- Wood
- Fiber cement
- Vinyl
- Cedar
Each option has unique pros and cons that should be considered before making a final decision. The best way to determine the most appropriate siding material for your construction or renovation goals is to discuss all options with a siding contractor.
Vertical vs. Horizontal Siding Installation: What Are The Differences?
Vertical and horizontal siding installation is available for all siding types. The primary difference is the exterior appearance, although there are notable other differences for each option. Vertical siding installation involves installing the siding material vertically, and horizontal siding installation involves installing the siding material in a horizontal manner.
What Are The Pros And Cons Of Vertical Siding Installation?
Vertical siding installation is more common on commercial properties than residential, but it can be a great option for homeowners as well. Vertical siding installation is typically recommended for homeowners who do not mind a higher cost of installation and want a more unique (and less traditional) look for their exterior siding.
The Advantages
One of the most notable benefits of vertical siding installation is that it provides a more unique and intriguing design concept for residential homes. It is also easier to keep clean in many instances as well; little maintenance is necessary to ensure the optimal look and condition of vertical siding. This can save homeowners time and money on maintenance costs each year.
The Disadvantages
Vertical siding is harder to install than the more traditional horizontal siding. It is not recommended that homeowners attempt vertical siding installation themselves, and instead, it is recommended to hire a professional to handle the installation.
Primarily, this is because of the need to install furring strips, which is not typically a requirement with horizontal siding. The need for furring strips can add cost to the project cost, and the project often takes longer than with horizontal siding installation, which can increase the cost of maintenance as well.
When To Choose Vertical Siding Installation
Vertical siding works best for homeowners who may feel their home could benefit from a more modern and innovative exterior style. Of course, the cost of vertical siding installation is higher, so it is more ideal for homeowners with a higher initial installation budget.
What Are The Pros And Cons Of Horizontal Siding Installation?
Horizontal siding installation is the more traditional siding style option for residential properties. For homeowners who desire the simplest and most conventional approach for their exterior siding, horizontal siding is likely the best solution. Of course, siding contractors can ensure horizontal siding offers the aesthetic and quality benefits desired.
The Advantages
Perhaps the most notable benefit of this siding solution is that it is the most affordable and quickest to install. Those who prefer a more traditional look may enjoy the appearance of horizontal siding as well. The installation time for horizontal siding is approximately half the installation time of vertical siding. Subsequently, it is more cost-friendly for homeowners as well.
The Disadvantages
Horizontal siding is often not as durable as vertical siding. This is primarily because horizontal exteriors are more vulnerable to water damage from bad storms, which could lead to mold and mildew if the siding is not maintained well over an extended period of time. It can also be harder to clean horizontal siding, and the homeowner will need to clean it far more often than what is required with vertical siding.
When To Choose Horizontal Siding Installation
Horizontal siding installation is more traditional and works great for achieving a conservative, yet attractive design. It is also a good choice for homeowners who are looking to save money on installation costs and want the fastest installation possible. However, those who choose horizontal siding should be willing and able to provide more maintenance to their home’s siding.
Speak With Adelphia Exteriors About Siding Installation
Here at Adelphia Exteriors, we help homeowners throughout the siding installation process, from choosing the right type of siding materials and determining whether vertical or horizontal installation is most appropriate to offering servicing advice once the siding installation is complete. Call our team today or send us a message to learn more about your siding installation options.