Your home’s siding plays a big role in curb appeal, weather protection, and energy efficiency. Whether you’re updating your exterior or building a new home, choosing the right siding style is key to achieving the look and performance you want.
At KVN Construction, we’ve helped homeowners across Portland, Oregon and Vancouver, WA find the perfect siding for their homes. In this region, where we experience everything from heavy rain to hot summers, the right siding can make a huge difference in durability and appearance.
Here’s a helpful comparison of four popular siding styles: lap, shingle, vertical, and panel—so you can choose the best fit for your home.
Lap Siding
Lap siding (also known as clapboard or horizontal siding) is one of the most classic and widely used siding styles. It features long, horizontal boards that overlap each other to shed water efficiently.
Benefits of lap siding:
- Timeless, traditional appearance
- Excellent water resistance
- Works well with most home styles
- Easy to repair or replace individual boards
In Portland and Vancouver, lap siding is a common choice for craftsman and colonial-style homes. It pairs well with fiber cement, wood, or engineered wood materials, offering both charm and durability.
Shingle Siding
Shingle siding (or shake siding) offers a more textured and rustic look. Often made of cedar or fiber cement, shingles are installed in staggered rows and can be left natural or painted.
Benefits of shingle siding:
- Adds texture and character
- Great for cottage and coastal-style homes
- Can be used as an accent or full exterior coverage
- Available in uniform or varied edge designs
Shingle siding is a great choice for homeowners in the Pacific Northwest who want to add a custom, handcrafted feel to their home—especially on gables or accent walls.
Vertical Siding
Vertical siding, including board and batten, features long, upright panels. It’s often used on modern farmhouses and contemporary homes for a bold, clean look.
Benefits of vertical siding:
- Visually elongates the home’s appearance
- Ideal for accent areas or full siding coverage
- Low-maintenance and easy to clean
- Adds a modern or rustic aesthetic depending on trim
In Portland and Vancouver, vertical siding is growing in popularity for new construction and siding remodels. It offers strong protection from rain and looks striking on a variety of home styles.
Panel Siding
Panel siding refers to large sheets of siding material that cover wide areas with fewer seams. Common materials include engineered wood, fiber cement, and composite panels.
Benefits of panel siding:
- Clean, modern lines
- Fast installation process
- Fewer seams mean reduced chance of water intrusion
- Great option for energy-efficient wall systems
Panel siding works especially well on modern or mid-century homes in the Portland, Oregon and Vancouver, WA area. It’s often paired with bold trim or mixed with lap or vertical siding for contrast.
Which Siding Style Is Right for Your Pacific Northwest Home?
Each siding style has its own unique look and benefits. Here’s a quick comparison to help you decide:
- Lap siding: Traditional, durable, and perfect for rainy climates
- Shingle siding: Textured and charming—ideal for accents and detail
- Vertical siding: Modern, rustic, and visually distinctive
- Panel siding: Sleek, efficient, and great for contemporary designs
At KVN Construction, we work with trusted brands like James Hardie to install high-quality siding that’s built to perform in the Pacific Northwest. Whether you're going for a timeless or modern aesthetic, we’ll help you choose the perfect style and material for your home.
Upgrade Your Siding in Portland, Oregon or Vancouver, WA with KVN Construction
Looking to refresh your home's exterior? KVN Construction offers professional siding installation and replacement services throughout Portland, Oregon and Vancouver, WA. From lap to panel siding, we help homeowners achieve a beautiful, weather-resistant finish that lasts.
Contact us today to schedule your free consultation and see which siding style is right for your home!
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