How to Choose the Best Siding for Your Home
Choosing the right siding style is one of the most important steps in designing a home’s exterior. The profile you choose influences curb appeal, architectural character, and even perceived home value. From timeless clapboard to rustic board & batten, each style offers unique visual qualities that can dramatically shape the look of your home.
If you’re unsure which direction to take, EvoSiding can help you compare materials, review design options, and choose a siding style that perfectly complements your home.
Clapboard Siding
Clapboard siding, sometimes called bevel or weatherboard, features long, narrow boards installed horizontally, with each board overlapping the one below it. The profile is slightly tapered, creating a traditional exterior look with visible shadow lines.
Key Characteristics
- Classic and timeless style
- Works well with Colonial, Cape Cod, and traditional architecture
- Distinct horizontal lines that elongate the home’s profile
Pros
- Versatile appearance that fits many home styles
- Easy to maintain and repair (especially with wood or fiber cement)
- Offers strong weather protection through overlapping design
Cons
- Wood clapboard may require frequent repainting
- Not as textured or dimensional as some other styles
Best Used For: Homeowners who want a clean, traditional, and symmetrical exterior.
Lap Siding (Traditional, Dutch Lap, and Modern Lap)
Lap siding is similar to clapboard but encompasses a wider range of horizontal siding profiles, including traditional lap, Dutch lap, and more contemporary, smooth styles. Dutch lap siding features a concave curve at the top of each board, creating deeper shadow lines and a more decorative appearance.
Key Characteristics
- Horizontal orientation
- Options for smooth or wood-grain textures
- Available in vinyl, fiber cement, engineered wood, and more
Pros
- Extremely popular and widely available
- Easy to match with many home designs
- Often the most cost-effective siding installation
- Dutch lap provides added visual depth
Cons
- Horizontal lines can draw attention to uneven walls on older homes
- Lower-cost materials may fade if not UV-protected
Best Used For: Homeowners seeking a versatile, budget-friendly siding style that looks great on almost any home.
Shingle Siding
Shingle siding, also known as shake siding, features individual shingle panels cut into uniform or varied shapes. Shingles can be straight-edged for a clean look or staggered for a rustic appearance. Materials include cedar, vinyl, and fiber cement.
Key Characteristics
- Varied textures that add warmth and softness
- Can be used on full exteriors or as an accent in gables
- Available in classic, scalloped, staggered, or decorative patterns
Pros
- Highly decorative and visually rich
- Excellent for cottage, Craftsman, and coastal styles
- Provides a handcrafted aesthetic
Cons
- More expensive than simple lap siding
- Wood shingles require regular sealing or staining
- Not always ideal for ultra-modern designs
Best Used For: Homeowners who want a warm, textured, character-filled exterior.
Board & Batten Siding
Board & batten siding is a vertical siding style made from wide boards with skinny battens installed over the seams. This creates a distinct rhythmic pattern and strong vertical lines, adding height and bold visual appeal.
Key Characteristics
- Vertical orientation
- Clean, modern-farmhouse look
- Deep shadows from raised battens
Pros
- Great for farmhouse, modern, rustic, or cabin-inspired designs
- Adds striking architectural interest
- Excellent accent siding when combined with lap or shingle profiles
Cons
- Installation requires precision to keep vertical lines straight
- More labor-intensive than basic lap siding
Best Used For: Homeowners seeking a modern farmhouse, rustic, or contemporary siding appearance.
Which Siding Style Should You Choose?
The best siding style depends on your home’s architecture, your personal design preferences, and how bold or subtle you want the exterior to feel. Many homeowners mix profiles, such as pairing board & batten with shingle accents, creating a standout custom look.
Contact EvoSiding today to schedule a siding consultation and explore siding styles that elevate curb appeal and long-term value.
Explore Siding Styles that Match Your Home’s Personality
Understanding the differences between clapboard, lap, shingle, and board & batten siding makes it easier to visualize the final look of your home. Each siding profile offers unique texture, character, and architectural influence. Whether you prefer the simplicity of lap siding or the bold lines of board & batten, the right choice can completely transform your home’s exterior. With expert siding installation from EvoSiding, you’ll achieve a beautiful, lasting finish tailored to your vision.
