When it’s time to update your home’s exterior, siding is one of the biggest design and performance decisions you’ll make. But you might get confused while choosing between vertical siding and horizontal siding.
At first glance, it may seem like a complete visual choice. But the siding direction affects more than just appearance. It impacts durability, maintenance, water drainage, installation cost, and even resale value. If you’re still comparing both options, this blog is for you!
We’ll walk you through the real differences between vertical and horizontal siding so you can make an informed decision.
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What’s the Basic Difference Between Horizontal & Vertical Siding?
Horizontal Siding
Horizontal siding runs left to right across your home. It’s the most common style in the U.S., often seen in lap siding or clapboard designs. When you think of a typical suburban home, you probably need horizontal siding.
Vertical Siding
Vertical siding runs up and down, and you’ll often see it on modern farmhouse-style homes.
The vertical lines give the exterior a sharper and more defined look. In recent years, more homeowners have chosen it for newer builds and custom designs.
Other Deciding Factors Between Horizontal & Vertical Siding
Picking between horizontal and vertical siding isn’t only about how it looks. The choice can also affect its durability, maintenance, cost, and even resale value.
1. Curb Appeal
Siding is one of the first things people notice about your home from the outside.
- Horizontal siding gives your home a wider and more grounded appearance. Because the lines run left to right, they visually stretch the structure and are very popular among homeowners.
- Vertical siding, on the other hand, draws the eye upward. The long vertical lines create the illusion of height, which can make a shorter or boxy home appear taller and more refined.
So, the right choice depends on your home’s structure and your design goals.
Read More – Curb Appeal Upgrades: Modern Window and Siding Trends
2. Durability & Water Resistance
This is where homeowners need real clarity.
- Horizontal siding, Because horizontal siding overlaps downward, water naturally sheds off each plank. This layered design helps prevent moisture from seeping behind the siding when properly installed.
- Vertical siding Vertical siding allows rainwater to run straight down, which can be very effective in areas with heavy rainfall. However, the right siding installation is more important here. Improper sealing or poor flashing can lead to moisture issues.
Overall, both styles handle water well, but only when they’re installed correctly and sealed properly.
3. Installation & Cost
You may not believe it, but the siding direction can affect installation time and cost.
- Horizontal siding is usually easier and quicker to install. Most siding contractors are very familiar with this style, which makes the process clearer and more affordable.
- Vertical siding can take a bit more preparation. In some cases, extra support or framing is needed to keep the panels properly aligned and secure. Because the lines run straight up and down, even small mistakes can be noticeable. This can mean a little more labor and slightly higher costs.
The cost difference is usually not very big. Here, proper installation is more important. Saving a little money now by cutting corners can lead to expensive problems later. Your siding protects your home, so it’s important to get it done right by a trusted siding contractor.
4. Maintenance
No homeowner wants siding that constantly needs cleaning or upkeep.
- Horizontal siding can sometimes collect dust, cobwebs, or debris along the lower edges of each panel. Over time, this may require occasional washing to keep it looking fresh.
- Vertical siding runs straight up and down. So it tends to shed dirt more easily. There are fewer horizontal ledges where debris can settle.
Also, the material you choose plays a much bigger role in maintenance than the direction. For example, vinyl and fiber cement siding require less care than natural wood.
In the end, good-quality materials and proper sealing will reduce maintenance in both styles.
Read More – Spring Cleaning for Your Home’s Exterior: Siding Maintenance
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Horizontal Siding Vs. Vertical Siding – A Quick Comparison
Aspects | Horizontal Siding | Vertical Siding |
Aesthetics | Traditional, Classic | Modern, Bold, Unique |
Cost | Generally lower | Generally higher |
Maintenance | Requires more frequent washing | Very easy to clean |
Installation | Quick & easy | Complex and time-consuming |
Water Resistance | Overlaps can trap moisture; needs perfect flashing to avoid rot | Gravity sheds water fast; fewer leak points in wet climates |
Common Questions Homeowners Ask About Siding Repairs and Installation
1. Is vertical siding more expensive than horizontal siding?
Yes, vertical siding can be more expensive. The siding material may cost about the same, but vertical siding often needs extra support behind it to keep the panels secure and protected from moisture that adds to the cost.
Moreover, it requires expert installation. So, contact an experienced siding company if you want to avoid unnecessary repairs in the future.
2. Will vertical siding make my house look small?
No, it actually does the opposite. Much like vertical stripes on clothing, vertical siding creates an optical illusion that makes your home appear taller and more spacious.
3. Which one is better for resale value?
Both styles can increase your home’s value. Vertical siding is often seen as more modern and high-end. When used on certain sections of the home, it can make your home stand out and catch a buyer’s eye.
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Takeaway
Choosing between vertical and horizontal siding isn’t about picking a right or wrong option. It’s about what fits your home, your budget, and the look you want to create.
The best choice is the one that balances appearance, performance, and practicality for your home. Make sure you contact a reliable siding contractor who can guide you and install the siding correctly.
Area We Serve! | ||
Ready for New Siding? Trust Windows & Siding Reno For Expert Installation
If you’re looking for an experienced and reputable siding company in Reno, you’re already in the right place!
At Windows and Siding Reno, we help homeowners make the right siding choice with confidence. As leading siding contractors in Reno, NV, we understand the local architecture and the specific weather challenges our homes face.
Whether you’re comparing siding styles or need dependable siding repair in Reno, NV, we’re here to guide you and deliver work that can last for years. We also install high-quality windows, entry doors, and patio doors to help improve your home’s comfort, security, and overall look.
Call us at (775) 391 – 8487 to request a quote and upgrade your home’s exterior.
