If you are sizing up the work, start with our page on vertical siding. Live nearby? See siding in Beaverdale. Doing your homework first? Read our guide on james hardie siding.
Classic lap siding profiles and styles
Horizontal lap siding remains the most popular choice for houses across central Iowa. It features boards that overlap each other to shed water and protect your wall studs. You can choose different reveal widths depending on if you want a colonial or modern look.
Traditional Dutch lap adds a decorative groove that creates distinct shadow lines. Plain lap offers a flatter profile for a clean finish. Both styles work well in older Des Moines neighborhoods or new developments in Waukee and Altoona.
Durable materials for horizontal siding
We install various materials for your lap siding Des Moines project. Vinyl is a cost-effective choice that never needs paint. It handles the freeze-thaw cycles of an Iowa winter without cracking if installed correctly.
For maximum fire and hail resistance, many homeowners choose fiber cement or Hardie Plank. This material is heavy and stays rigid during high wind events. It gives you the look of real wood without the rot and termite issues common in humid Iowa summers.
Engineered wood is another strong contender for horizontal siding. It is treated to resist moisture and impact. This makes it a smart choice for homes in Ankeny or Johnston where hailstorms are frequent.
Where to use lap siding on your home
Most people use lap siding to cover the entire exterior of their home. It provides a cohesive look that fits into any Des Moines streetscape. The horizontal lines help a house look wider and more grounded.
You can also use lap siding as an accent. It pairs well with stone veneer on the lower half of a house or cedar shakes in the gables. We see this often in custom builds throughout West Des Moines and Clive.
It is also the standard choice for detached garages and sheds. Matching your outbuilding to your home with the same lap siding increases your overall curb appeal.
Cost factors for horizontal siding installation
The price of your lap siding project depends on the total square footage and the material you select. Vinyl is usually the most affordable option upfront. Fiber cement or composite products represent a higher initial investment but last longer.
Labor costs can also vary based on the height of your home. Two-story houses in Urbandale require more equipment and time than a simple ranch. We provide a clear breakdown of all costs in our written quotes.
Replacing trim and soffits at the same time is usually more efficient. Doing everything at once ensures your new horizontal siding has a watertight seal around windows and doors.