What is Wood Siding?

Wood siding is a popular choice for homeowners who want to give their homes a rustic, natural look. It has been used for centuries and continues to be a popular choice for its durability, versatility, and aesthetic appeal.

Wood siding can be made from a variety of different tree species, each with its own unique properties. Some of the most common species used for wood siding include cedar, pine, spruce, and redwood. Cedar and redwood are particularly popular because they are naturally resistant to rot and insects, making them ideal for use in damp climates or areas with a lot of insects.

Types and Finishes of Wood Siding

There are several different types of wood siding, each with its own distinct style and installation method. The most common types of wood siding include:

Clapboard Siding: Also known as bevel siding, this type of wood siding is made from long, narrow boards that are tapered at one end. The boards are installed horizontally, with the tapered end overlapping the thicker end of the adjacent board.
Shingle Siding: Shingle siding is made from thin, rectangular pieces of wood that are installed vertically. The shingles are typically staggered to create a textured, layered effect.
Board and Batten Siding: Board and batten siding is made from wide boards that are installed vertically, with narrow strips of wood (called battens) covering the gaps between the boards. This creates a distinctive, rustic look that is popular in rural areas.
Log Siding: Log siding is made from long, cylindrical logs that are cut and shaped to resemble traditional log cabins. It is a popular choice for homeowners who want a rustic, cabin-like appearance for their home.

Wood siding can be treated with a variety of finishes to enhance its natural beauty and protect it from the elements. Some of the most common finishes for wood siding include:

Stain: Stain is a popular choice for wood siding because it enhances the natural beauty of the wood grain while also protecting the wood from moisture and UV damage.
Paint: Paint is a more opaque finish that can be used to cover up imperfections in the wood or create a bold, colorful look for the home. However, paint does not allow the natural beauty of the wood to show through.
Sealant: Sealant is a clear finish that is designed to protect the wood from moisture and UV damage without altering its natural appearance. It is a good choice for homeowners who want to maintain the natural beauty of their wood siding.

Advantages of Wood Siding

Wood siding has several advantages over other types of siding materials. For one, it is a renewable resource, which means it is environmentally friendly and sustainable. Additionally, wood siding is durable and long-lasting, with proper maintenance it can last for decades. It is also versatile, meaning it can be used in a variety of architectural styles, from traditional to modern.

Natural Beauty: Each piece of wood is unique, with its own grain pattern, knots, and color variations. This gives wood siding a warm, natural look that is difficult to replicate with other materials.
Versatility: Wood siding can be used in a variety of architectural styles, from traditional to modern.
Durability: Wood siding is a durable material that can last for decades with proper care and maintenance. It is resistant to impact damage and can withstand harsh weather conditions.
Insulation: Wood siding provides natural insulation, helping to keep your home cool in the summer and warm in the winter. This can help to reduce your energy bills and improve your home’s energy efficiency.
Sustainability: Wood siding is a renewable resource that is environmentally friendly and sustainable. Wood is a naturally occurring material that can be harvested from responsibly managed forests, making it a renewable resource that can be replenished over time.
Resale Value: Wood siding can increase the resale value of your home. Homebuyers often appreciate the natural beauty and durability of wood siding, and are willing to pay more for a home with wood siding.
Customization: Wood siding can be customized to fit your specific design preferences. It can be cut and shaped into a variety of profiles, and it can be stained or painted to match any color scheme.
Easy to Repair: If your wood siding becomes damaged, it is relatively easy to repair. Small areas of damage can be patched with wood filler, and larger areas can be replaced with new siding boards.

However, there are some disadvantages to wood siding as well. One of the biggest drawbacks is that it requires regular maintenance to keep it looking its best. Wood siding is susceptible to moisture damage, rot, and insect infestations, so it must be inspected regularly and treated with the appropriate finishes to protect it from these threats. Additionally, wood siding can be more expensive than other types of siding materials, particularly if high-quality, rot-resistant species are used.

In conclusion, wood siding is a popular choice for homeowners who want a natural, rustic look for their homes. It is a versatile and durable material that can be used in a variety of architectural styles, and it is a renewable resource that is environmentally friendly and sustainable. However, it does require regular maintenance to keep it looking its best, and it can be more expensive than other types of siding materials. With proper care and maintenance, wood siding can last for decades and provide homeowners with a beautiful, natural-looking exterior. Contact us at Clear View Exteriors to get an estimate.