Dutch Lap Vs Traditional Lap Siding

If you ve been wondering what the best type and style of siding is for your home you may want to check out dutch lap.

Dutch lap vs traditional lap siding.

Dutch lap siding because of the shape that is introduced by the grove adds strength to the siding. The style features a distinct shadow line running between each perceived plank. Dutch lap although mostly a vinyl siding in modern times was also produced out of timber in the past. The main difference between true clapboard and dutch lap is the lack of a deep beveled edge at the top of the panel.

Dutch lap siding was first used by northern europeans and brought to the united states especially the mid atlantic states during the colonial period. Dutch lap vinyl siding is perfect for those who want their home to have the grace of a traditional american colonial look. Dutch lap siding was called novelty lap siding until it became so popular. This profile resembles the look of boards that have been beveled on the top half at a 45 degree angle.

Dutch lap and clapboard are similar but the main difference is the beveled edge of dutch lap siding creating a shadowed edge. Manufacturers of imitative siding will use whatever name they think will sell more of their product and of course none of. While simple it has always remained the most traditional and common type of siding as it was easier and cheaper to produce out of timber when compared to dutch lap. Attractive and classic in appearance it looks good in a range of colors and on many architectural styles.

The lower half hangs at a 90 degree angle. The groove enhances the resilience of the wood to forces that would try to stretch it or bend it beyond its elastic limit. For those who are searching for the look of a southern colonial home beaded vinyl siding is the style for you. In your example the drop is larger than normal and a bit odd looking.

There are many difference styles of clapboard wall coverings among them these popular profiles. Traditional vinyl siding that looks like it has some foam insulation behind it. Material science theory informs us that with the increased surface area by the groove the forces acting to bend the material will be distributed. Off hand it looks like the dutch lap has more insulation behind it.

There is still some reveal where siding panels overlap each other so clapboard siding still has appealing shadow lines but the look is more subtle than with true dutch lap cladding. Dutch lap is considered to be one of the more traditional styles of siding. This gives the siding the appearance of being hand carved.