Choosing a siding for the house is quite tiresome. Especially as the main two types of sidings have little differences. It’s quite common to get confused about their quality and suitability with your house.
Are you facing trouble choosing between dutch lap siding vs traditional siding?
Dutch lap siding and traditional siding are quite similar. But they have their distinguishing style. Where dutch lap siding fits more with modern architectures, traditional siding is best for colonial looks. Dutch sidings are a tad bit more costly than traditional siding.
Now, if you can spare some time, we can show you the differences between dutch lap siding and traditional siding. And help you make your final decision.
So, let’s jump right in-
Dutch Lap Siding vs Traditional Siding: Basics
It’s not easy to choose between two siding kinds that are strikingly similar. Let’s take a look at the differences between dutch lap siding and regular siding.
What Is Dutch Lap Siding?
Dutch lap siding horizontal planks have a contemporary form with a notch at the bottom of each board. The contrast between the boards is created by their deep trough patterns.
It’s a kind of clapboard siding but different than a usual one. Most Dutch lap siding is now made of vinyl rather than wood, as it was in the past.
As it was handcrafted the costs were high. But nowadays, thanks to growing technologies, dutch lap siding is produced quickly and cheaply.
Dutch lap siding complements a wide range of architectural styles. Especially Victorian-style buildings and Greek revivals.
What is Traditional Siding?
Traditional siding is made up of overlapped planks, similar to the Dutch lap. However, each board’s edge is straight, obviating the Dutch lap’s shadow effect.
Traditional panels are in demand of Colonial homeowners. This design is also appropriate for ranches and antique homes.
Traditional siding, boasting a clean front, highlights distinct features of the house in numerous conditions. In times of need, people can combine traditional style with unique designs.
Traditional slides, of course, excel at satisfying homeowners when properly installed.
Dutch Lap vs. Traditional Siding: Overall Comparison
As previously mentioned, Dutch lap and traditional sidings are very similar. But they have some differences depending on your taste and house.
Design
For the dutch lap’s soft concave face, it’s more noticeable than traditional siding. This kind of design is considered aesthetic.
On the contrary, traditional siding’s flat look gives your house an orthodox look.
You can choose any color for your siding, regardless of the design you choose to go with. However, while choosing a color, keep the type of siding in mind.
Lighter colors look better on Dutch lap siding. It draws attention to the notch’s shadow. As a result, when installing Dutch lap siding, white, cream, or light grey should be considered.
The shadow on traditional vinyl siding isn’t as prominent. As a result, darker colors like blue, green, or red seem fantastic.
Bolder colors might be used to give a traditional structure a modern spin. Black siding is not so popular but it can give a nonconformist aesthetic.
Durability
Once it comes down to the endurance of sidings, the material is a deciding factor. It doesn’t matter whether the interior is made of kerdi board or cement board.
Wood siding can survive for decades if properly cared for. Termites, however, must be considered.
Vinyl, on the other hand, can readily last for decades with no upkeep. Despite the fact that it is influenced by high temperatures.
If the materials are the same, however, Dutch lap siding is the winner.
Because of the sloped surface, Dutch lap siding can keep precipitation, snow, and other elements out. As a result, homeowners don’t need to spend a lot of time repairing sidings.
Whereas, the flat design of traditional sliding weather can affect the exterior significantly.
Cost
The difference between the cost is insignificant when it comes to Dutch lap vs traditional siding. Let’s assume both sidings are made of vinyl.
Traditional vinyl siding on average may cost you between $1 to $7 per sq. ft. That includes installations. Where for Dutch lap siding, it is $2.75 to $8 per square foot.
If you choose wood, Dutch lap may cost between $8 and $12 per sq. ft. Traditional wood siding with installations costs $6 to $12 per sq. ft. on average.
Considering all the factors, for small-scale projects, the cost differences are insignificant. But with an increase in project scope, you may face a decrease in your wallet too.
Ease of Installation
The installation of Dutch lap siding and standard siding is identical. Both have a clip-on and finishing trim system that is quite straightforward.
Wood sliding can be harder to install and may require specialized tools. But the most important thing is to start off straight and level and consistently work up.
Both Dutch lap and typical siding are made out of thin boards that are put horizontally over the building’s façade. Nowadays, both styles are made on vinyl for their thin and lightweight properties.
As a result, you will not need to install individual planks. The panels are on the larger side.
Traditional vs Dutch Lap Siding: Which is the Best?
Modern homeowners have conflicting opinions about the sidings for their ever-changing preferences.
For a modern look on your house, the dutch lap siding will be the best choice. Hands down! On the contrary, For classic looks traditional siding will suit you and your house perfectly.
House refurbishments involve a wide range of expenses. If you don’t have any budget problems, feel free to select any style you prefer.
But if you are on a tight budget, we recommend you stick with traditional siding and save up.
Dutch lap sidings require less upkeep than regular lap sidings. If you lack time for sidings maintenance the Dutch lap is best for you.
You can also consider different styles of siding like straight vinyl siding, clapboard siding, beaded seam, and others.
In the end, it is hard to tell which siding is best. Ultimately, it boils down to your preference, budget, and type of home.
FAQs
What is the cheapest material for sidings at the moment?
Vinyl. Vinyl siding is widely utilized for any type of siding due to its durability and low cost. Vinyl siding is simple to install and requires little upkeep.
How often should the sidings be replaced?
On average, a healthy siding should last from 20-40 years with good care. However, the durability of your siding depends on the material as well.
Is it possible to repair damaged sidings?
Slight damages can be retrieved by trimming the board. But for extensive damages, you might need to replace the sidings altogether. Contact your repair service in this case.
Final Verdict
We have tried to give our best comparison on dutch lap siding vs traditional siding. However, it all boils down to personal preference.
The only major difference between these two sidings is the design and the cost.
We recommend you consider all the factors and build or rebuild a healthy home for you and your family. And we hope we have helped you enough in your final decision.
Have a great day and stay safe!