Clapboard vs Vinyl Siding

Most high end luxury homes still use wood clapboard siding versus vinyl siding.

Wood clapboard siding is available in a variety of woods including cedar, redwood, and pine. Cedar, by far, is the most popular type of wood clapboard siding to use as it holds up well to weather and is water and insect resistant. Wood clapboard siding also holds up very well to high winds. Wood clapboard siding, however is significantly more expensive than vinyl siding. Clapboard siding vs vinyl siding can be two to three times more expensive to install.

Pine clapboard siding is the cheapest type of wood siding, however you get what you pay for. Pine clapboard siding quickly cups, warps, and splits after it has been installed. When installing any type of wood clapboard siding, it is imperative that all sides of the clapboards be painted first prior to installation, including the ends, to prevent water penetration. Watch this related video on priming/staining exterior wood. Vinyl vs Wood Clapboard Siding Pros and Cons As already mentioned, the main benefits of vinyl siding are cost and maintenance. Unlike wood clapboard siding, no painting is required.

Vinyl siding maintenance basically consists of periodically washing the vinyl house siding to eliminate grime, dirt, and mildew.

Vinyl siding is available in a wide range of colors and styles. There are also numerous vinyl siding manufacturers to choose from. Vinyl siding is also easy to install, at least for trained professionals. The downside of vinyl siding is that it often has a shine associated with it that makes a home look like a piece of Tupperware from the curb. In recent years vinyl siding manufacturers have eliminated much of the shine.

However, still under certain lighting conditions it can be observed. Vinyl siding also comes in both flat and textured surfaces and of various clapboard style widths.

When washing vinyl siding it is important to make sure water is not shot up underneath the house siding as the water can become trapped between the vinyl siding and the house sheathing. This situation and cause the formation of mold and mildew. Vinyl siding also does not stand up as well to high wind conditions.

The decision on vinyl vs clapboard siding can be a tough one for the homeowner. Each has their advantages and disadvantages. The best advice is to visit a local home improvement center and compare the two products side by side before making a decision.

Find a local home siding contractor here for obtaining free quotes.