Lap Siding

The most common style of siding is for sure horizontal lap. When it is hard to choose between the tens of different styles, horizontal siding might be your best match. The style is simple and does not contain curvy siding types, shakes, shingles, etc. It is just plain planks installed horizontally.

Due to this common exterior style, it is easier to find professionals who know the installation process. Also, due to the less complexity of the design, the exterior takes less installation time. This means the installation cost may go down a little bit.

The basic style does not mean it has zero material options. On the contrary, horizontal exterior siding styles come with the most material varieties. You can choose between natural wood, vinyl, aluminum, fiber-cement HardiePlank®, etc. All of these materials are installed alike but offer unique features. For example, vinyl is low maintenance and has more color options, while metal lasts longer but needs repainting approximately every 5 years. Wood siding can make the exterior natural-looking, and James Hardie exterior is the toughest.

Following is a gallery featuring examples of some horizontal lap siding design ideas.