Visualize the shape of Dutch lap vinyl siding this way: Imagine two wine bottles stacked on top of each other, each with a neck sloping down to a gently beveled shoulder. Below the bevel, the bottle shape is vertical. Now cut the stacked bottles in half vertically and shrink them to 8 or 9 inches high. The remaining shape resembles the end view of a piece of Dutch lap siding. The base of the upper bottle overhangs the lower bottle creating a shadow from overhead sunlight. The beveled shoulder reflects light differently than the vertical "bottle side." Repeat this for the height of a house wall, and you have an ever-changing dance of light and shadow. No wonder Dutch lap siding is an enduring style.
What makes Dutch lap vinyl siding preferable to wood?
- A wood bevel exposes cross grains that are susceptible to moisture penetration.
- Dutch lap siding has integrated nailing strips along the top for easy, precise installation.
- Vinyl siding interlocks along the bottom for moisture and wind resistance.
- Unlike wood, the color of Dutch lap siding is integral. No costly repainting or re-staining.
- You'll never worry about termites.
- Wood rots and molds; vinyl doesn't.
- Wood siding is expensive both to purchase and maintain.
What About the Cost?
For do-it-yourself installation (another big savings) siding comes in 200 square-foot cartons. Prices vary widely by region, brand and dealer. Comparison shopping is crucial. Use .044" thickness for sag-free rigidity. A ballpark price for white .044" Dutch lap vinyl siding cartons of 200 square feet is about $165. For a 40 x 50' home, 9 cartons is roughly $1500. Colored siding, trim pieces and installation are extra costs, but never having to refinish and replace siding is priceless.
