When it comes to picking a material for exterior for your home, it often comes down to two main choices: clapboard vs. vinyl siding.

There is a long tradition of clapboard siding as the standard for American homes and it’s not a material going away anytime soon. Though vinyl siding was once less desirable and less effective in the mid-20th Century, technological advances over the past few decades have helped make this siding material more dependable and fashionable.

Don’t know which to pick for your home?

We’ve provided some information about both clapboard vs vinyl sidings, their pros and cons, and their cost to help make your decision easier.

What is Clapboard Siding?

Clapboard siding is also known as wood plank or beveled wood siding. Clapboard is used mostly for exterior siding and is identifiable by its overlapping-board design. -imrovenet.com

Also known as “lap” siding, clapboard has been around in America since the colonial days when settlers split logs such as pine, cedar, and many others to create horizontal wood panels that would overlap and help insulate and protect their homes from cold during the winter.

Clapboard wood panels are still used as sidings for homes today but have increased competition with vinyl siding alternatives.

Pros and Cons: Clapboard vs. Vinyl Siding

Vinyl siding is an alternative to clapboard and has grown in popularity since the 1950s. While it used to be known to crack and fade with time, technology has advanced, making vinyl siding more durable and effective and a good alternative to clapboard.

Some pros to vinyl siding are its affordability as well as the fact that it doesn’t have to be painted regularly like clapboard does. It also comes in a wide variety of colors and only needs to be cleaned every so often to maintain your home’s exterior.

Clapboard is the classic choice.

There are several types of wood that can be used to make clapboard panels for your siding which can give your home a more rustic aesthetic depending on their color and finish.

Wood panels are quite durable to harsh weather condition and can help insulate against colder climates. On the other hand, clapboard siding is more expensive overall when you factor in installation and labor cost as well as the amount of paint that needs to be applied over the years. Though vinyl is cheaper and low maintenance, a well-maintained clapboard siding can outlast it.

Cost Difference of Vinyl Siding and Clapboard

Vinyl siding can cost an average of $1.60 per square foot, including the cost of installation. Quality clapboard is usually between $5 and $10 per square foot depending on the type and quality of the wood used.

Even though higher-quality vinyl can be just as expensive as good clapboard siding, it is usually cheaper overall because of its easier installation process and lower maintenance requirements.

Enter your zip code into this clapboard costs calculator to get a free estimate for materials and expenses in your area!

Did this help you understand the pros and cons of clapboard vs. vinyl siding?

There are quality options when it comes to both siding materials…it’s all about your preference, your budget, and your local climate.

Contact Us

Be sure to call American Dream Restoration if you have any questions or need assistance with your home improvement or siding project. Our team offers a variety of services and is ready to help!