Your siding provides you with several benefits, including comfortable indoor temperatures, weather protection and improved curb appeal. That’s why when planning a siding project, choosing the right profile is a crucial decision as it can significantly impact the aesthetics and functionality of your property.

Types of Siding Profiles

Horizontal Siding Profiles

Horizontal siding patterns are a common choice for most homeowners in the U.S. Known for their ability to withstand rain and snow, these siding profiles can keep moisture out of your home’s exterior – helping you prevent mold growth, rot and other moisture-related issues. Below are three options under this category:

Traditional lap. In this siding profile option, boards are placed slightly on top of each other. If you live in an area that is prone to heavy rains, traditional lap siding is ideal for you. This option offers superior weather protection and cost-effectiveness.

Dutch lap. This profile type looks almost similar to traditional lap siding, except for the groove at the top of every board. These grooves create a shadow that can add texture to your home exterior. Despite the difference, Dutch lap siding can excellently protect your property, too.

Beaded. Do you want to add more depth and texture to your home? You might want to consider beaded siding. Its boards come with a bead at the bottom, which can elevate your property’s curb appeal.

Vertical Siding Profiles

Even though these siding options are more commonly used in commercial structures, they can also benefit modern homes in significant ways. However, the installation process of vertical siding is more complex, which means high labor costs. If you’re unsure whether or not a vertical siding profile suits your home, consult a reliable team of siding experts as they have the knowledge to guide you. For now, here are two options you can consider:

Panel. Panel siding is like a vertical version of traditional lap siding. Panels also overlap each other vertically instead of horizontally.

Board and batten. This siding option is typically made of wood. Battens are fastened over the gaps between the boards to prevent water infiltration. This siding profile has raised battens that produce attractive shadows, contributing to your home’s curb appeal.

Shake Profiles

This siding profile option comes in various patterns and designs, including round, half-cove, octagonal and hexagonal. Shake profiles look like wood shake shingles that are used in residential roofing systems. They offer a more stylish and seamless appearance.

Tips on Choosing the Best Siding Profile for Your Home

Determine Your Home’s Architectural Design

How your house is designed can influence your decision on the ideal siding profile. For example, if your home is a one-story structure, vertical siding would work best. For traditional homes, go with horizontal siding profiles.

Consider the Size of Your Preferred Siding Profile

Whatever siding profile you choose, you must take its size into consideration. Your home’s architectural style must also be considered when determining the size of your siding panels. According to experts, wide panels can highlight the aesthetics of Colonial homes. On other hand, narrower profiles cast shadows that can make one-story homes look higher.

Mix and Match Different Styles

When getting new siding, combining various colors and patterns is a great way to have a unique home exterior. Mixing and matching can help you add more dimension and texture to your home, making it stand out from others. If you’re planning to sell your home, you might want to focus on getting well-designed siding as it can attract sure buyers. To ensure a successful project, consult roofers and siding installers who can meet your goals and help you make informed decisions.

Use an Online Visualizer

Imagining what a siding profile or color looks like in your home can be difficult. This is where online visualizer tools come in handy. Just visit the website or app of a siding manufacturer and upload a picture of your house. Then, select a siding profile to see if it suits your home. This way, you’ll have an idea if your preferred siding style will look on your property.

Steps to Take Before a Siding Replacement

Clear the Work Zone

Once you have selected a profile for your siding and scheduled its installation, you must get your home ready before your siding contractor arrives. Remove all obstructions outdoors to prevent them from blocking the area where your contractor will perform the siding replacement. Any item left in your yard can affect the installation process.

Trim Shrubs and Trees Nearby

For clearance, trim the trees or shrubs surrounding your home before your siding replacement project begins. You should also cut the grass short, so the siding crew can easily find materials that might have dropped during the installation. To protect your garden from falling debris, cover it using a tarp or cloth.

Prepare Your Interior

Your interior walls can shake while your contractor is removing your old siding and installing the replacement. To avoid damage in your living spaces, get any hanging items off your wall as these could fall due to the vibrations. Do the same for fragile objects on your tables and shelves. If you can find safe storage for these items, better keep them there until the project is finished.

Designate a Safe Space for Pets and Children

The loud installation noises and the strangers coming in and out of your home could stress out your pets. Moreover, the materials and tools laying around your property can pose threats to the safety of your children. As much as possible, designate an area where your kids and pets will be safe throughout the project. You can also talk with your contractor to make specific arrangements.

For exceptional siding and roofing solutions, look no further than Lask Exterior Solutions, LLC. Backed with many years of industry experience, we have the knowledge, skills and tools to meet your home improvement needs. Call us at (815) 964-2220, or fill out our contact form to schedule a consultation. We are dedicated to serving homeowners in Rockford, IL, and the surrounding communities.