Modern vertical siding is a popular exterior siding choice for many homeowners looking to update the look of their homes. With various styles and materials to choose from, vertical siding offers aesthetic appeal along with practical benefits. In this informational article, readers will learn more about the advantages of installing modern vertical siding on their properties. Topics covered include durability, energy efficiency, customization options, and ease of maintenance. For homeowners considering siding replacement or upgrade projects, this article provides a helpful overview of the key benefits of choosing vertical siding in a contemporary style. With the right information in hand, property owners can make informed decisions when evaluating siding options to protect and enhance their homes.
What Is Modern Vertical Siding?
Modern vertical siding is a contemporary exterior cladding option characterized by large, sleek panel pieces installed vertically to create a clean, modern aesthetic. This style of siding, available in materials like fiber cement, metal, and vinyl, offers improved energy efficiency, a variety of color options, and a smooth, minimalist appearance that complements modern architectural designs. Unlike traditional vertical siding styles, modern vertical siding utilizes larger, uniform panels to achieve a streamlined look, making it a popular choice for homeowners and builders looking to add visual interest and a unique touch to their homes or buildings.
Benefits of Installing Modern Vertical Siding
Installing modern vertical siding on homes comes with several advantages.
Low Maintenance
Modern vertical siding is low maintenance as it does not require frequent repainting or repairs. The durable materials like fiber cement and engineered wood are resistant to rot, insects, and weather. They retain their appearance for many years without needing touch-ups or repairs. Homeowners save time and money on maintenance costs with modern vertical siding.
Energy Efficiency
Insulated siding improves the energy efficiency of homes. The additional layer of insulation helps retain heat in the winter and keeps the interiors cool in the summer, reducing energy usage for heating and cooling. Homeowners can gain energy savings of up to 20% per year with insulated vertical siding.
Curb Appeal
Modern vertical siding enhances the curb appeal and beauty of homes with its stylish, sleek appearance. The clean lines and wood grain textures create an attractive facade. Vertical siding also provides more design options with different styles, colors, and finishes to choose from to complement home architecture and personal tastes.
Environmentally Friendly
Some types of modern vertical siding are environmentally friendly. Fiber cement siding is made from recycled materials and wood products from sustainable sources. They do not deplete natural resources or damage the environment. Eco-friendly siding is a sustainable choice for homes.
In summary, modern vertical siding improves home function and aesthetics with low-maintenance, energy efficiency, curb appeal, and environmental benefits. Homeowners can enjoy the advantages of modern vertical siding for many years to come.
Types of Modern Vertical Siding Materials
Vinyl siding
Vinyl siding is a popular, low-maintenance option for vertical siding. Made from polyvinyl chloride (PVC), vinyl siding is durable and weather-resistant. It requires little upkeep and is resistant to rot, dents, and scratches. Vinyl siding is also inexpensive and available in a variety of colors and styles that mimic the appearance of wood. However, vinyl siding may not have the same curb appeal as natural materials and it can be difficult to paint if a color change is desired in the future.
Fiber cement siding
Fiber cement siding offers the look of wood with higher durability. Made from a mix of cement, sand, and cellulose fibers, fiber cement siding resists damage from moisture, rot, and insects. It requires minimal maintenance but can last up to 50 years. Fiber cement siding is more expensive than vinyl but cheaper than natural wood. It can also be painted to change its appearance. However, it may be difficult to cut and work with, and the material is heavy, requiring a sturdy installation.
Wood siding
For those who prefer a natural material, wood siding provides an attractive, high-end appearance. Wood siding options include redwood, cedar, cypress, and treated pine. Wood siding has a warm, organic look and feel but requires frequent maintenance like painting or staining to protect from weathering. It is also the most expensive vertical siding option and will not last as long as other materials. Wood that is not properly sealed and maintained can warp, crack, and rot over time.
In summary, the three most popular types of vertical siding—vinyl, fiber cement, and wood—each have their pros and cons. The choice ultimately comes down to priorities like appearance, durability, cost, and maintenance. With regular care and upkeep, any of these materials can provide an attractive vertical siding solution for homes.
What Are the Functions of Vertical Siding?
Vertical siding is used as a type of wall cladding installed in an up-and-down direction, offering a distinctive and dramatic appearance compared to traditional horizontal siding. It is commonly used in modern architectural designs to create a unique aesthetic, accentuate height, make buildings appear taller and more spacious, and add architectural interest.
Vertical siding is popular for its versatility in material, color, and design choices, providing homeowners and builders with a wide selection of reliable, durable, and easy-to-install options. It can be used to enhance peaks, create eye-catching curb appeal, add modern elements to a home’s exterior, and infuse height without major architectural changes. Vertical siding styles include Vertical Board and Batten Siding, Vertical Panelized Siding, V-Groove Vertical Siding, Shiplap Vertical Siding, and Reverse Board and Batten Vertical Siding, each offering a unique look and feel to buildings.
How to install Modern Vertical Siding?
- Prepare the wall surface: Ensure the substrate (plywood, wood composite, rigid foam, or fiber sheathing) is smooth, level, and rigid. Never install vertical siding directly over open furring strips or studs.
- Install J-channels: Snap a baseline 1″ above the low point of the wall. Apply J-channels along the top and bottom of the walls to receive the siding panels. Overlap J-channels by 3/4″ and drill drainage holes every 2 feet along the bottom J-channel.
- Install corner posts: Install outside and inside corner posts using the appropriate dimensions and procedures.
- Start from the center: Begin installing the siding panels from the center of the wall and work outwards. Lock each panel into the preceding one and nail every 12 inches.
- Allow for expansion: Leave more space for expansion at the bottom of the panels (2/3 of the total expansion) compared to the top (1/3 of the total expansion).
- Cut panels as needed: When installing around doors and windows or to fit the wall, cut the panels to size while allowing for expansion. Use a snap lock punch to create locking tabs along the cut edge.
- Provide additional support: For cut edge panels, insert furring into the outside corner post channel and nail it to the substrate. Then insert the undersill trim into the corner post and slide the cut panel edge into it.
Costs of Installing Modern Vertical Siding
Modern vertical siding can be an attractive and durable option for homeowners looking to improve the exterior of their house. However, the initial installation costs may be higher than some other siding types. According to industry estimates, the average cost to install modern vertical siding in the U.S. ranges from $8,000 to $20,000 for a typical single-family home.
Material costs
The specific type of vertical siding chosen has a significant impact on total project cost. Materials like fiber cement, aluminum, and steel vertical siding tend to be on the higher end of the price spectrum, ranging from $5 to $10 per square foot. Vinyl and wood vertical siding are more affordable, around $3 to $7 per square foot. Premium vertical siding materials may cost $10 per square foot or more, depending on factors like thickness and quality.
Labor costs
In addition to the cost of materials, professional installation of modern vertical siding requires the work of skilled siding contractors and crews. Labor costs for vertical siding installation average between $3 to $5 per square foot, depending on the complexity of the job and contractor rates in your local area. The total time required to install vertical siding on an average single-family home is usually 3 to 5 days for a crew of 2 to 4 workers.
Additional costs
Homeowners should also budget for additional expenses beyond the vertical siding materials and installation. These include the cost of trim, flashing, sealants, paint or stain, and disposal of the existing siding. Permits or inspections may be required in some areas, which can cost between $200 to $500 on average. It is a good idea for homeowners to get multiple estimates from reputable vertical siding contractors to determine the total project cost based on their home’s specific needs.
While modern vertical siding may require a sizable upfront investment, it can provide significant long-term benefits like energy efficiency, lower maintenance, and increased home value. Vertical siding is an attractive and durable solution for those looking to improve home aesthetics in an eco-friendly way. High-quality vertical siding materials may last for decades with proper care and maintenance.
Conclusion
Installing modern vertical siding can benefit homeowners seeking to refresh their home’s exterior. Rhino Oakland Window Replacement & Siding is here to assist in this endeavor. Today’s composite and vinyl vertical sidings offer enhanced durability, easier maintenance, and a diverse array of styles to suit various preferences. These modern siding options present homeowners with an appealing, long-lasting, and cost-effective solution. When contemplating a siding replacement project, it is advisable to engage with reputable local siding contractors to assess the most suitable modern vertical siding products for both the home and budget.
By entrusting the installation to skilled professionals, modern vertical sidings can safeguard homes for many years while enhancing their visual charm. For any homeowner, exploring the latest vertical siding choices can lead to discovering the perfect blend of functionality, longevity, and curb appeal. Let Rhino Oakland Window Replacement & Siding guide you toward achieving a home exterior that is both stylish and enduring.
FAQs on Modern Vertical Siding
What are the benefits of vertical siding?
Vertical siding offers several benefits over traditional horizontal siding. It can provide a unique aesthetic that makes a home stand out. It often enhances the illusion of height on buildings, making them appear taller. Additionally, vertical siding tends to be better at shedding water, which can help prevent moisture-related issues, making it a good choice for rainy climates.
What materials are commonly used for vertical siding?
Modern vertical siding can be made from various materials including vinyl, fiber cement, wood, and metal. Vinyl is popular due to its durability and low maintenance. Fiber cement is favored for its resistance to fire, termites, and rot. Wood offers a classic look and is preferred for its natural aesthetics, while metal is chosen for its longevity and modern appearance.
How does the cost of vertical siding compare to horizontal siding?
The cost of vertical siding can be slightly higher than horizontal siding due to the additional labor required for installation. The materials themselves are comparably priced, but vertical siding often requires more framing and furring strips for secure attachment, which can increase overall project costs.
Is vertical siding more difficult to install?
Yes, vertical siding typically requires more careful installation to ensure that each panel is perfectly aligned and securely attached. The process may involve extra steps, such as installing horizontal furring strips over the sheathing to provide a flat, nailable surface. These additional steps make the installation process more labor-intensive compared to horizontal siding.
How do I maintain vertical siding?
Maintenance of vertical siding depends on the material. Generally, it should be washed annually with mild soap and water to remove dirt and debris. Inspections for damage or wear, such as chipping, fading, or warping, should be performed regularly. For specific materials like wood, additional treatments like staining or painting might be necessary to protect against the elements and maintain its aesthetic quality.
