When your siding gets old, worn out, and needs to be updated, trying to understand the terms associated with the siding replacement process can be frustrating. At Beissel Window & Siding, we simplify your upgrade so it flows seamlessly—and amidst the process, we educate you on common siding terms and guide you through gorgeous and long-lasting options to consider so you can make informed decisions on the best long-term solution for your home.
New siding creates stunning curb appeal, shields your house from damaging moisture (and insects!), and increases your property’s value.
Siding Terminology 101
Choosing the best siding for your home includes decisions on its style, color, durability, cost, and warranty coverage. The exterior contractor you choose is a vital part of the equation for the long-term success of your siding installation. At Beissel Window & Siding, we want to ensure you are comfortable with every part of the process. Knowing these common terms will help you gain understanding about your siding upgrade.
Siding and Trim Styles
- Board-and-batten siding – This contemporary style consists of vertical siding panels (boards) and thin strips (battens) that cover each joint between them.
- Horizontal lap siding – This is the most common style, and its name is derived from the fact that a portion of each siding plank overlaps the plank below it.
- Shingles – This siding type is usually made of low-maintenance fiber cement or genuine wood, and is used to achieve a distinct look that is perfect for Cape Cod style homes. It is traditionally made of individual pieces of wood in varying widths, creating a rustic appearance that is visually appealing.
- Shakes – Similar to shingles, these are small and rectangular, yet with more texture. They do not lay as flat as shingles.
- Trim – This thin strip gives a finished edge to your home exterior. It helps protect your house from moisture intrusion, and is used around windows, doors, and more.
- Vertical siding – This trendy style gives your house a more modern look. Vertical planks can vary in their widths to create different aesthetics. Boards come in a variety of textures so you can achieve the custom look you desire. (Also see board-and-batten siding.)
Siding Elements
- Backer board – This plywood is nailed into the studs of your house to create a flat surface for your siding to be nailed onto.
- Drip cap – This piece of siding trim is a flashing that helps deflect moisture away from the overhead of your house’s vertical siding. It keeps water from entering behind the structure—like gutters do. It can be used over windows or doors to deter water run-off.
- Fascia – This is the attractive board under your roof’s overhang. It holds up your gutters and makes your roof look finished. It is also known as the transition trim between your house and your roofline. It supports your shingles and helps prevent water intrusion.
- Frieze – This is typically decorative trim that covers the seam between your siding and soffit.
- Gables – This is the triangle-shaped portion of your exterior that is adjacent to your roof on two sides and stabilizes your peaked roof. You can use a different type of siding for gables to enhance the look of your house.
- Soffit – This covers the surface beneath your roof’s overhang to keep moisture away from rafters. Soffits can be vented or closed depending on your needs.
- Underlayment – This material is laid over the backer board and under your siding to protect your home from moisture.
- Weep holes – These keep water from accumulating and give it an easy place to bleed out. They are located on the bottom edge of your siding.
- Wind load – The wind speed that your home’s replacement siding can withstand without being damaged or torn off is its wind load. Today’s siding materials deliver the ability to withstand up to 100 mph of wind load (a Category 2 hurricane).
Siding Parts and Installation Practices
- Blind nailing – This is done when the fastener drives through the top of the siding plank, keeping the nail out of sight once your siding is installed. James Hardie® recommends blind nailing, as it delivers the best aesthetic and prevents moisture intrusion.
- Buttlock – This is the lower portion of your siding that is used to secure your siding panels together.
- Caulking – This is the secondary sealing material used on joints to waterproof your siding. It should be checked regularly and replaced as needed.
- Corner trim – This is the trim piece used to cover the connecting joints on the side of your house. It is classified into inside corner trim, which bends inward to connect seams, and outside trim, which caps outer corners.
- Face nailing – This is when the fastener drives through the overlap at the bottom of your siding plank, making the nail visible once your siding is installed.
- Gauge – This refers to a material’s thickness, or the depth of your siding material.
- Miter joint – The area where two planks or pieces of trim are cut to fit together at a 90-degree angle.
- Nailing hem – The part of your siding where nailing holes are situated. It keeps siding from being nailed randomly and designates a space for nailing to avoid problems in the future with your siding.
- Siding face – The part of your siding that is visible once it is installed. It contributes significantly to your home’s curb appeal.
- Starter strip – This is a horizontal strip fastened to the lowest point of your siding installation, and used to connect the first course or row of siding to your home exterior.
Transform Your Home with New Siding
Now that you have learned common siding terms, it is the perfect time to explore siding styles and materials for your home. Beissel Window & Siding has been in business for over 70 years, and we plan to keep going! Our employees have hundreds of years of experience shared between them, so you can count on us for your siding upgrade and more. Learn more about how our siding services can safeguard your house from the elements and add eye-catching beauty to your curb appeal.
