Article: Your Guide to Vertical Shiplap Exterior Siding
Your Guide to Vertical Shiplap Exterior Siding
Shiplap has been a popular design choice for years, but its vertical orientation takes it from a charming trend to a timeless architectural feature. Unlike its horizontal counterpart, vertical shiplap exterior siding creates a sense of height and modern elegance that feels both fresh and enduring. It’s a versatile look that complements everything from modern farmhouses to sleek, contemporary builds. This article will show you why this style has such lasting appeal, covering everything from material selection and installation best practices to simple maintenance tips that will keep your exterior looking sharp and sophisticated for decades.
Key Takeaways
- Go Vertical for a Modern Look and Smarter Drainage: Choosing a vertical orientation makes your home appear taller and more contemporary. Functionally, it creates a natural path for rainwater to run off, which helps protect your home from moisture damage.
- Match Your Material to Your Maintenance Goals: The material you select—whether it's natural wood, fiber cement, or a composite—directly impacts your budget and long-term upkeep. Wood offers classic beauty but requires more care, while engineered options provide durability with less work.
- A Flawless Finish Depends on Proper Installation: Don't cut corners on the prep work. A successful, long-lasting result requires a solid weather-resistant barrier, a plan for drainage, and careful sealing of all joints and gaps to keep water out.
What Is Vertical Shiplap Siding?
If you’ve ever admired a home with clean, crisp lines that seem to stretch toward the sky, you were likely looking at vertical shiplap. At its core, shiplap consists of long, flat boards that fit together with a special overlapping joint called a rabbet. This design allows each board to rest on top of the one next to it, creating a tight seal that keeps wind and rain out. While traditionally installed horizontally, placing these boards vertically gives siding a completely fresh and modern feel.
Vertical shiplap siding is more than just a style choice; it’s a functional and durable way to protect your home’s exterior. The overlapping joints create subtle shadow lines that add texture and dimension to your walls, turning a flat surface into a dynamic feature. Whether you’re aiming for a modern farmhouse aesthetic or a sleek contemporary look, using exterior shiplap cladding is a fantastic way to make a statement. It’s a versatile material that works beautifully across an entire home or as an accent on gables, entryways, and additions.
The Difference Between Vertical and Horizontal Shiplap
The most obvious difference is, of course, the orientation—but that simple change creates a completely different look and feel. Horizontal shiplap often gives off a classic, rustic, or coastal vibe, emphasizing the width of a home. Vertical shiplap, on the other hand, draws the eye upward, making a house appear taller and more stately. This orientation feels distinctly modern and can give any structure a sharp, sophisticated profile.
Beyond aesthetics, there’s a functional distinction. Traditional horizontal shiplap was designed to let gravity help shed water down the exterior. While some worry that a vertical installation might trap moisture, modern exterior siding systems are engineered to prevent this. When installed correctly with proper flashing and sealing techniques, vertical shiplap is excellent at managing water and protecting the structure underneath.
Key Design Features
The magic of shiplap lies in its overlapping rabbet joints. This design is what sets it apart from other siding types like simple butt-jointed planks. These joints create a tight, weather-resistant seal that stands up to the elements, making it a practical and stylish choice for exterior siding. The small gap between the boards produces clean, defined shadow lines that add visual interest and texture to your home’s facade without being overly busy.
This feature makes vertical shiplap incredibly versatile. It can be used to create a bold, uniform look across an entire exterior or applied selectively to highlight specific architectural elements like dormers or porch walls. The clean lines pair well with other materials like stone, brick, or stucco, allowing for creative and personalized designs that reflect your unique style.
Why Choose Vertical Shiplap for Your Exterior?
If you're looking for siding that combines modern style with serious performance, vertical shiplap is a fantastic choice. It’s more than just a trend; it’s a practical upgrade that offers distinct advantages over traditional horizontal siding. From its clean, eye-catching lines to its superior weather resistance, vertical shiplap delivers on multiple fronts. Here are the key reasons why it might be the perfect fit for your home’s exterior.
Achieve a Modern, Striking Look
While horizontal shiplap has a classic charm, vertical shiplap creates an entirely different look. The upward-facing lines draw the eye vertically, making your home appear taller and more stately. This orientation gives any property a clean, contemporary feel that stands out from the crowd. Whether you’re covering an entire exterior or creating a stunning accent wall on a porch, vertical siding adds architectural sophistication. It’s a simple switch in direction that makes a huge impact on your home’s overall curb appeal.
Better Protection Against Weather
Beyond its good looks, vertical shiplap is a workhorse when it comes to protecting your home. The vertical installation allows water to run straight down and off the siding, minimizing the chances of moisture getting trapped between the joints. Vertical shiplap's overlapping joints create a tight, weather-resistant seal, making it a practical and stylish choice for siding. This natural drainage path is a major advantage, especially in rainy or snowy climates, as it helps prevent issues like rot and water damage over the long term. It’s a smart design that keeps your home safer and drier.
A Smart Investment for Your Home's Value
Upgrading your siding is a significant project, so you want a material that adds lasting value. Vertical shiplap is a solid investment. Its modern appeal can make your home more attractive to potential buyers, while its durability means fewer repairs down the road. When you opt for high-quality Exterior Shiplap Cladding, you’re choosing a material built to withstand the elements for years. This combination of enhanced aesthetics and robust performance improves your daily enjoyment of your home and contributes to its long-term market value, making it a financially savvy choice.
Choosing the Right Material for Vertical Shiplap
The material you choose for your vertical shiplap is more than just a color choice—it’s the foundation of your home’s exterior performance and curb appeal. Your decision will impact everything from the final look and installation cost to how much time you’ll spend on maintenance down the road. The three most common options are natural wood, fiber cement, and composite materials, each offering a unique blend of benefits.
When selecting your material, think about your local climate, your budget, and your long-term goals for the property. Are you aiming for a classic, rustic aesthetic, or do you need something that can withstand harsh weather with minimal upkeep? Answering these questions will help you find the perfect fit. Let’s break down what each material brings to the table so you can make a confident choice for your project.
Natural Wood
There’s nothing quite like the authentic, warm look of natural wood. It offers a timeless, classic appeal that can complement any architectural style, from modern farmhouse to coastal cottage. High-quality exterior shiplap cladding is often made from durable hardwoods that can stand up to the elements, like cedar, cypress, or redwood. Wood can be stained to highlight its natural grain or painted in any color you can imagine. The main consideration with wood is maintenance; it requires regular sealing or painting to protect it from moisture, rot, and insects, but for many, its unmatched beauty is well worth the effort.
Durable Fiber Cement
If you’re looking for a material that can handle almost anything, fiber cement is a fantastic option. As a blend of cement, sand, and cellulose fibers, it’s engineered for strength and longevity. Fiber cement siding is a popular choice for its durability and resistance to fire, rot, and pests. It can mimic the look of wood while providing a longer lifespan with significantly less maintenance. While heavier than other options, its resilience makes it a smart investment, especially in areas with extreme weather. You can find fiber cement boards that are primed and ready for paint, giving you design flexibility without compromising on toughness.
Low-Maintenance Composites
For homeowners who want great style without the ongoing upkeep, composite siding is a game-changer. These engineered products, typically made from a mix of wood fibers and recycled plastics, are designed to deliver the best of both worlds. Composite materials are designed to resist fading, warping, and moisture damage, making them a low-maintenance option for homeowners. You won’t have to worry about painting or staining every few years. Composites come in a wide range of colors and textures, including realistic wood grains, so you can achieve the look you want without the demanding maintenance schedule of natural wood.
Comparing Your Material Options
So, how do you make the final call? Each material has its own set of benefits and drawbacks, including cost, maintenance requirements, and aesthetic appeal, which should be considered when making a choice. Think of it this way: natural wood offers unparalleled authentic beauty but requires the most upkeep. Fiber cement provides maximum durability and resistance for a long-lasting finish. Finally, composite siding is the go-to for a low-maintenance exterior that still looks fantastic. Consider your climate, budget, and how hands-on you want to be with upkeep to find the material that aligns perfectly with your home and lifestyle.
What's the Cost of Vertical Shiplap Siding?
Budgeting is a huge part of any home exterior project, and understanding the costs upfront can save you a lot of headaches. The final price for vertical shiplap siding depends on a few key things: the material you choose, whether you hire a pro or DIY, and the total size of your project. While there’s a wide range, breaking it down into materials, labor, and other potential expenses will give you a clear picture of what to expect. Let’s walk through each part of the budget so you can plan your project with confidence.
Breaking Down Material Costs
The material itself is your first major expense. For natural wood shiplap, you can expect to pay anywhere from $2 to $12 per square foot. This range is pretty wide because it depends on the type of wood—pine is generally more affordable, while cedar or other hardwoods are on the higher end. The price also changes based on whether the boards come pre-primed or finished. For a durable and stylish option, high-quality Exterior Shiplap Cladding provides a great balance of performance and aesthetics. When you’re getting quotes, always ask what’s included in the per-square-foot price to avoid surprises.
Factoring in Labor and Installation
Unless you’re a seasoned DIYer, you’ll need to factor in professional installation. Labor costs typically run from $3 to $8 per square foot. For a 1,000-square-foot project, that means installation could cost between $3,000 and $8,000. This price can vary based on your location and the complexity of your home’s design—a single-story rectangular house will cost less than a multi-story home with lots of corners and windows. If you’re a contractor, remember to apply for a trade account to access potential bulk discounts on materials, which can help manage overall project costs for your clients.
Other Costs to Keep in Mind
Beyond materials and labor, a few other expenses can pop up. You’ll need to budget for things like removing and disposing of old siding, any necessary wall repairs, and supplies like fasteners, sealant, and paint. If you’re just creating a small accent wall, your total cost might be a few hundred dollars. However, for a full exterior siding project, the all-in cost can range from $2,100 to $16,000 or more, depending on the size of your home. It’s always a good idea to add a 10% contingency to your budget to cover any unexpected issues that might arise once the project begins.
Where to Find Quality Vertical Shiplap Siding
Once you’ve landed on the perfect material for your project, the next step is finding a supplier you can trust. This is a crucial decision, as the right partner won’t just sell you a product; they’ll provide high-quality materials that ensure your siding looks great and performs well for years to come. Your choice will likely depend on your preferred material, budget, and specific project needs. A good supplier should offer transparent pricing, reliable shipping, and a solid reputation for quality.
When you’re comparing options, look for companies that specialize in exterior-grade materials and can provide detailed specifications about their products. Don't hesitate to ask questions about durability, installation recommendations, and warranty information. Reading customer reviews and checking for trade programs for professionals can also give you a better sense of their service and value. To help you get started, here are a few of the top suppliers known for their quality vertical shiplap siding. Each one offers something a little different, so you can find the perfect match for your home’s exterior, whether you're a homeowner tackling a DIY project or a contractor sourcing for a client.
USA Builders Depot Exterior Shiplap Cladding
High-quality exterior shiplap needs to be tough enough to handle whatever the weather throws at it. At USA Builders Depot, our Exterior Shiplap Cladding Wall Panels are sourced from premium hardwoods to ensure exceptional longevity and performance. We focus on materials that not only deliver a stunning, modern aesthetic but are also built to last, protecting your home from the elements. Because we supply a wide range of building materials, from steel doors to flooring, you can streamline your project by getting everything you need in one place with fast, nationwide shipping.
James Hardie
If you’re leaning toward fiber cement, James Hardie is one of the most recognized names in the industry. Their products are engineered to be incredibly resilient, offering top-tier resistance to fire, rot, moisture, and pests. Their popular HardiePlank lap siding is a fantastic choice for homeowners looking for a low-maintenance solution that can withstand harsh climates without warping or fading. While it’s a different material from traditional wood, it provides a clean, modern look that holds up exceptionally well over time, making it a reliable long-term investment for any home exterior.
LP SmartSide
LP SmartSide offers a compelling alternative with its engineered wood siding. This material combines the classic, warm appearance of traditional wood with advanced technology to create a product that’s both beautiful and durable. Their vertical siding options are specifically designed to resist common issues like moisture, termites, and fungal decay, giving you the look of wood without the typical maintenance headaches. It’s a great middle-ground for those who love the aesthetic of natural wood but need the enhanced durability of an engineered product for their home’s exterior.
Advantage Lumber
For those who want the authentic beauty of natural wood and a wide range of choices, Advantage Lumber is a fantastic resource. They provide an extensive selection of shiplap siding products in various wood species and finishes, allowing for a truly custom look. Their siding is custom-milled to ensure a perfect fit and finish, blending aesthetic appeal with natural durability. This is an ideal option for projects where the specific grain, color, and character of the wood are central to the design, giving you full control over the final appearance of your exterior.
Common Installation Mistakes to Avoid
Installing vertical shiplap is a fantastic way to update your home’s exterior, but a great result depends on a great installation. Even the highest-quality materials can fail if they aren’t installed correctly. A few common missteps can turn your dream facade into a maintenance headache, leading to issues like water damage, rot, and an unprofessional finish. It’s all about paying attention to the details that protect your home from the elements.
Getting the installation right from the start saves you time, money, and stress down the road. It ensures your siding not only looks stunning but also performs its primary job: protecting your home. From managing water to prepping the surface, each step is crucial for a long-lasting and beautiful result. Let’s walk through the most common mistakes I see and, more importantly, how you can easily avoid them to ensure your project is a complete success.
Forgetting Proper Drainage
One of the biggest mistakes with vertical siding is overlooking proper water management. Unlike horizontal siding where water naturally runs off each board, vertical joints can catch rain and guide it behind the siding. If that moisture gets trapped, it can lead to rot and structural damage. The solution is to create a clear path for water to escape. This starts with installing a high-quality weather-resistant barrier (WRB) or house wrap over the sheathing. For the best protection, consider a rainscreen system, which creates a small air gap between the siding and the WRB, allowing for excellent drainage and drying.
Skipping Sealing and Caulking
Those tiny gaps between boards or around windows might seem insignificant, but they are open doors for moisture. Skipping the sealing and caulking stage is a critical error that compromises the entire system. Every vertical joint, corner, and seam around windows and doors needs to be sealed with a high-quality, flexible exterior caulk. This creates a watertight barrier that prevents wind-driven rain from getting behind the boards. Taking the time to seal every potential entry point is one of the most effective ways to protect your investment and ensure your siding lasts for decades.
Not Prepping Your Walls
You can’t put beautiful new siding on a flawed surface and expect a perfect outcome. Proper wall preparation is non-negotiable. Before you even think about installing the first board, your exterior walls must be clean, smooth, and structurally sound. This means scraping off old paint, repairing any damaged areas, and ensuring the surface is level. Most importantly, you must install a moisture barrier to protect the wall sheathing. Using durable sheathing like fiber cement boards can also provide a solid, weather-resistant base for your new siding.
Choosing Low-Quality Materials
Your siding is your home’s first line of defense against sun, rain, and wind, so material quality matters—a lot. Opting for cheaper, lower-grade materials might save you a little money upfront, but it often leads to bigger costs later in the form of repairs and replacements. Low-quality wood can warp, split, or rot quickly, while inferior composite materials can fade and become brittle. Investing in premium Exterior Shiplap Cladding Wall Panels made from durable, weather-resistant materials ensures your home’s exterior will not only look beautiful but will also stand up to the elements for years to come.
How to Maintain Your Vertical Shiplap Siding
Vertical shiplap siding is a durable and beautiful choice, but like any part of your home's exterior, it needs a little TLC to stay in top shape. Proper maintenance not only keeps your siding looking fresh but also protects it from moisture, pests, and the elements, ensuring it lasts for decades. The good news is that upkeep is straightforward. By creating a simple routine, you can prevent major issues and keep your home looking its best year after year.
Create a Cleaning and Inspection Routine
The best way to keep your vertical shiplap looking great is to establish a simple, regular maintenance schedule. At least once a year, give your siding a gentle wash with a soft-bristle brush and a bucket of mild, soapy water to remove any dirt, dust, or mildew that has collected in the grooves. While you’re cleaning, take the opportunity to inspect the boards for any signs of trouble. Look for cracked caulk, peeling paint, or any boards that seem loose or damaged. Catching these small issues early can prevent water infiltration and save you from more costly repairs down the road.
Know When to Repaint and Reseal
A quality paint or sealant job is your siding’s first line of defense against moisture and UV rays. Depending on your climate and how much direct sunlight your home gets, you’ll likely need to repaint or reseal your siding every few years. Telltale signs that it’s time for a fresh coat include faded color, a chalky film that comes off when you touch it, or visible cracking and peeling. Don’t wait until the damage is severe. Applying a fresh coat of high-quality exterior paint or sealant not only revitalizes your home’s appearance but also reinforces its protective barrier, keeping the material underneath safe and sound for years to come.
How Maintenance Varies by Material
The type of material you choose for your vertical shiplap will directly impact your maintenance routine. Natural wood siding, while beautiful, requires the most attention. It needs to be regularly sealed or stained to protect it from moisture, rot, and insects. On the other hand, materials like Exterior Shiplap Cladding and fiber cement are incredibly low-maintenance. These durable options are resistant to rot, pests, and warping, so they typically only need an annual cleaning and a fresh coat of paint every 5 to 15 years, depending on the manufacturer’s guidelines. With proper care, durable materials like fiber cement can last 30 to 50 years or even longer.
Tips to Prevent Damage and Rot
Prevention is always the best strategy for avoiding siding damage. It all starts with a proper installation, which should include a clean, level surface and a moisture barrier. Beyond that, there are a few key things you can do to protect your investment. Keep your gutters clean and functional to prevent water from overflowing and running down your walls. It’s also a good idea to trim back any trees or shrubs that are touching the siding, as this allows for better airflow and helps the siding dry out after it rains. Finally, regularly check the caulk around windows, doors, and corner trim, and reapply it as needed to keep those seams sealed tight against moisture.
Finding the Best Value on Vertical Shiplap
Getting the best value on your vertical shiplap siding isn't just about finding the lowest price per board. True value comes from a combination of high-quality materials, durability, excellent customer service, and a fair price. A cheap product that fails in a few years is no bargain. To make sure your investment pays off for years to come, you need to be strategic. By looking for discounts, timing your purchase right, and doing a little homework on your supplier, you can get premium siding that fits your budget and exceeds your expectations.
Look for Trade and Bulk Discounts
If you’re a contractor or tackling a large-scale home renovation, one of the easiest ways to save is by asking about trade programs. Many suppliers offer exclusive pricing and bulk discounts to professionals. Submitting a trade application can give you access to better rates that aren't available to the general public. Buying all your materials for a big project at once can also significantly lower the cost per square foot. High-quality exterior shiplap is often made from durable materials that stand up to the elements, so investing in a larger quantity from a trusted source ensures you get consistent quality across your entire project while saving money.
Keep an Eye Out for Promotions
Patience can pay off when it comes to purchasing building materials. Suppliers often run seasonal sales or special promotions that can help you save on your vertical shiplap. A great way to stay in the loop is by signing up for company newsletters or following your favorite suppliers on social media. Planning your project timeline around these sales events, like end-of-season clearances or holiday deals, can make a real difference in your budget. It’s always a good idea to check the main product pages, like for Exterior Shiplap Cladding Wall Panels, to see if any special offers are currently active.
Compare Suppliers and Read Reviews
Before you commit to a purchase, it’s crucial to compare your options and see what other customers have to say. Reading reviews gives you honest insight into the quality of the shiplap, the reliability of the shipping, and the helpfulness of the customer service team. Look for comments that mention how the siding held up after installation and whether the product matched the online description. A supplier with consistently positive feedback is more likely to provide a smooth experience and a product you’ll be happy with. This research helps you make an informed decision and find a partner you can trust for your project.
