Siding Glossary

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This glossary of siding terms can help you understand the many options available when it comes to replacing siding on your home.

Aluminum Siding Metal siding that looks like wooden lap siding. Aluminum siding is coated with a weather resistant paint when it comes from the factory. Eventually, aluminum siding will require paining. Because it dents easily, it is subject to damage from hail or other objects striking the siding.

Fiberboard Siding This type of siding is made of composite wood material, and is sold under several brand names, including Masonite. Because it is not made of solid wood, it must be installed and maintained properly.

Lap Siding Siding that looks like individual boards, typically eight to twelve feet long. Each piece of siding is 'lapped' over the piece below it to provide a waterproof covering for the house.

Panel Siding comes in sheets, normally 4 feet by 8 feet. Examples of panel siding include Texture 1-11. Because panel siding can be installed quickly, it can be a less expensive option than other types of siding.

Shake Siding Sometimes known as shingle siding, shake siding comes in widths from about four inches to 12 inches. It is installed like lap siding, starting at the lowest row, and moving up the wall. The random widths of the shakes provide a distinctive look to the wall.

T1-11 A type of wooden panel siding. Made of plywood, each panel is routed so that when the siding is installed, it appears as vertical wooden strips. It is low-cost to install, however, like all wood products, it requires painting and maintenance.

Vinyl Siding Made of Polyvinyl Chloride, Vinyl siding requires minimal maintenance, aside from an occasional washing to keep it clean. Because vinyl siding will expand and shrink with the weather. proper installation is important to avoid twisting when the siding expands, or gaps when the siding shrinks. Because the color runs all the way through the siding, painting is not required.

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