Vertical Siding (Options, Installation & More)

When it comes to upgrading your home’s exterior, siding plays a crucial role—not just in protecting your home from the elements but also in enhancing its curb appeal. While horizontal siding has been the go-to option for many homeowners, vertical siding is increasingly gaining attention for its distinct aesthetic and versatility.

If you’re considering a fresh look for your home or thinking about investing in durable, low-maintenance exterior options, vertical siding might be just what you need. This article explores everything you need to know about vertical siding, including:

• Its benefits
• Design options
• Installation insights

By the end, you’ll be well-equipped to decide if vertical siding is right for your home.

What Is Vertical Siding?

Vertical siding is an exterior siding option in which the panels are installed vertically instead of the more traditional horizontal layout. While often associated with commercial or industrial buildings, vertical siding has made its way into residential design due to its modern, sleek appearance. Its elongated lines can elevate your home’s exterior, offering a fresh and sophisticated alternative to conventional siding styles.

Generally available in materials like vinyl, fiber cement, wood, or metal, vertical siding provides homeowners with plenty of options to suit varying tastes, budgets, and maintenance expectations.

Why Choose Vertical Siding?

Before investing in a major exterior renovation, it’s important to understand the benefits of your options. Here’s why vertical siding is an excellent choice for many homeowners.

• Enhanced Aesthetic Appeal: One of the biggest draws of vertical siding is the unique and modern aesthetic it provides. Vertical lines can create a sense of height and give your home a distinctive look that sets it apart from others in your neighborhood. Whether you’re going for a contemporary design or a farmhouse-inspired exterior, vertical siding can complement a wide range of styles.
• Improved Visual Drama: Vertical siding adds depth and dimension to your home’s exterior by emphasizing architectural features. It can make spaces appear taller and add a sense of grandeur to flat, featureless exterior walls. If you want your home to stand out, vertical siding is an excellent choice.
• Low Maintenance Options: Certain materials used for vertical siding, such as vinyl or fiber cement, are extremely low maintenance. These materials resist warping, cracking, and peeling, saving you both time and money on regular upkeep. Additionally, many vertical siding options are easy to clean with just a garden hose or pressure washer.
• Exceptional Durability: When installed correctly, vertical siding can hold up against harsh weather conditions, including heavy rain, high winds, and even hail. Fiber cement and metal siding options, in particular, are incredibly durable, making them ideal for homeowners in areas prone to severe weather.
• Versatility Across Home Styles: Contrary to the belief that vertical siding only works on modern or commercial buildings, it is highly versatile. You can pair it with horizontal siding, shingles, or brick for a mixed-material, multi-textured look. This adaptability makes it an excellent choice for customizing your home’s exterior.
• Boosts Property Value: The right siding can dramatically improve your home’s curb appeal, an important factor if you’re considering selling in the future. Vertical siding’s durability and unique design can make your property more attractive to potential buyers.

5 Popular Materials for Vertical Siding

The material you choose for vertical siding will influence its durability, aesthetic, and maintenance needs. Below are the most common materials used for vertical siding:

1. Vinyl

Vinyl is one of the most popular materials for vertical siding due to its affordability, wide range of colors and styles, and low maintenance requirements. It’s also moisture-resistant, making it ideal for areas with high humidity or frequent rainfall. Keep in mind that vinyl siding offers less insulation than other materials, so you may need to factor in additional insulation for energy efficiency.

2. Fiber Cement

Fiber cement siding is favored for its durability and ability to mimic other materials like wood or stucco. It’s resistant to rot, insects, and severe weather, making it perfect for long-term use. While slightly more expensive upfront than vinyl, its longevity and minimal maintenance needs often make it a worthwhile investment.

3. Wood

If you’re drawn to a natural or rustic look, wood is a timeless choice. Vertical wood siding, often seen in board-and-batten or tongue-and-groove styles, exudes warmth and charm. However, wood siding requires more maintenance, including regular sealing or painting to protect it from water damage and pests.

4. Metal

Metal vertical siding, like aluminum or steel, offers a sleek and modern appearance that’s perfect for minimalist architectural styles. It’s highly durable and fire-resistant, making it a safe option. However, metal siding can dent more easily than other materials, and its upfront cost is higher than vinyl or wood.

5. Engineered Wood

Engineered wood combines the look of natural wood with enhanced durability and resistance to warping or cracking. It’s a cost-effective alternative to natural wood siding, with less maintenance required over time.

Design Options for Vertical Siding

Vertical siding isn’t limited to a single aesthetic. With a variety of design options, you can customize your exterior to reflect your personal style. Here are some of the most popular vertical siding designs:

Board-and-Batten

Board-and-batten is a classic vertical siding style where wide boards are spaced apart and narrow “battens” cover the seams. This design is synonymous with the farmhouse and rustic aesthetic but can also complement modern homes when paired with clean lines and neutral colors.

Panel Siding

Panel siding provides a sleek and uniform look, perfect for contemporary or minimalist homes. Large vertical panels are installed seamlessly for a smooth, modern finish.

Shiplap

While often seen horizontally, shiplap can also be installed vertically for an unexpected twist. This style works well with both coastal and modern design themes.

Mixed Material

Combine vertical siding with horizontal siding, stone, or brick to create a dynamic and multi-dimensional exterior. The contrast adds visual interest and allows you to highlight specific areas of your home.

Installation Insights for Vertical Siding

Installing vertical siding requires precision to ensure proper alignment, weather resistance, and an aesthetically pleasing finish. Here’s what you need to know about vertical siding installation:

Professional Installation is Recommended

Unlike horizontal siding, vertical siding demands precise alignment and proper sealing to prevent water from seeping through joints. Hiring an experienced contractor, like Voyager Exteriors, ensures a seamless and durable installation.

Furring Strips Might Be Necessary

Depending on the existing exterior, furring strips may need to be installed underneath vertical siding to create a flat, even surface.

Proper Sealing is Crucial

Vertical siding requires thorough sealing at joints and edges to prevent moisture infiltration. Pay attention to flashing and caulking during installation to maintain your siding’s durability.

Plan for Expansion and Contraction

Certain materials, such as vinyl and metal, expand and contract with temperature changes. Proper spacing during installation accommodates this natural movement, preventing buckling or warping.

Vertical Siding Maintenance Tips

One of the benefits of vertical siding is its low maintenance—especially when compared to other exterior finishes. Here are some simple maintenance tips to help your siding last for years to come:

• Regular Cleaning: Use a garden hose or a pressure washer on a low setting to remove dirt and grime. For tough stains, a soft scrub brush and mild detergent work well.
• Inspect for Damage: Periodically check for cracks, loose panels, or signs of moisture damage. Address issues promptly to avoid larger problems later.
• Repaint or Reseal as Needed: Wood and fiber cement siding may require occasional repainting or resealing to maintain their look and protect them from the elements.
• Trim Nearby Plants: Keep shrubs and trees trimmed away from your siding to prevent scratches or moisture buildup.

Is Vertical Siding Right for Your Home?

Choosing the right siding depends on a combination of aesthetic preferences, budget, and functional requirements. If you’re looking for a unique design with long-term durability and minimal maintenance, vertical siding is an excellent option. Its versatility enables you to achieve a range of looks, from classic farmhouse to sleek modern, making it ideal for homeowners looking to make their home truly stand out.

Let Us Install Your Vertical Panel Siding

Your home deserves an exterior that’s not only visually stunning but also designed to last. Vertical siding checks every box by offering a stylish, low-maintenance option that withstands the test of time. Whether you’re looking to increase property value, upgrade your curb appeal, or simply enjoy a fresh new look, vertical siding is a choice you won’t regret.

If you’re ready to give your home the upgrade it deserves, contact Voyager Exteriors today. Our team of experts helps homeowners select and install the perfect siding to match their style and needs.Transform your exterior with personalized, professional service. Contact Voyager Exteriors now to get started!