Learning the lingo when planning a siding replacement project can feel daunting. However, having a grasp of basic siding terms is a huge help. It will let you better understand what your contractor is talking about, which will empower you to make more informed decisions. If you are like many homeowners, you likely don’t have extensive knowledge of siding terminology. Don’t worry – we are here to help.
This guide will explore commonly used basic siding terms to help you speak confidently with contractors. From understanding the purpose of a drip cap to learning what exactly a flange is, we will break down the essential vocabulary you need to know. Let’s equip you with the knowledge you need to successfully navigate your next siding project.
Parts of Your Home’s Siding System
Understanding these basic siding terms related to your home’s siding system can provide you with valuable knowledge for your next home improvement project. Familiarizing yourself with these terms can make discussions with contractors smoother and help you make informed decisions about your siding installation or repair.
Backerboard
Imagine a strong foundation upon which your beautiful siding rests. That’s precisely what a backerboard, or sheathing, is. Typically crafted from plywood, oriented strand board (OSB), or foam boards, this crucial structural layer goes between your exterior wall studs and the siding panels. Contractors use it to ensure that your new siding can be installed evenly and to reinforce the structure’s strength.
Caulk
Caulk is a flexible sealant used to fill gaps and seams in siding installations. It helps prevent water infiltration and enhances energy efficiency by sealing air leaks around windows, doors, and joints.
Channel
Channels serve as the perfect guides for inserting trim or other pieces of siding. Think of them as slots or grooves specially designed for these components to seamlessly slide in. The use of channels adds to the efficiency and neatness of siding installation. For instance, a “J-channel” gets its name from resembling the letter J, cradling the edge of siding for a clean, finished look.
Corner Board
Corner boards are vertical trim pieces used at the corners of a building to provide a clean, finished appearance. They can also help with water drainage and are essential for protecting corners from moisture.
Drip Cap
Keeping water away from vulnerable areas is key for any siding installation. A drip cap, also known as head flashing, sits above doors, windows, or vertical siding sections. This clever piece of trim diverts water runoff, safeguarding those spots from unwanted moisture infiltration and potential damage.
Face
Pretty straightforward – this term simply refers to the side of your siding panel everyone gets to see. It’s the side of the siding visible after installation, featuring the texture, patterns, colors, and finishes you carefully selected to match your desired aesthetic. The face of your siding plays a crucial role in defining your home’s curb appeal.
Fascia
If you look up at your roofline, you’ll see the fascia board hiding underneath the edge. This board acts as a neat cover for the ends of the roof rafters, completing the edge of the roof while concealing the structural components. Often, the fascia also acts as the attachment point for your home’s gutter system.
Flange
Think of the flange as the secure anchor for your siding panels. Found at the top of most panels, this part includes the all-important mounting holes or locking leg that ensure the panel stays firmly in place when attached to the exterior walls. The flange ensures a secure installation and helps to create a uniform appearance by maintaining consistent spacing between panels.
Flashing
Mention flashing to a siding or roof replacement contractor and you will definitely hear a nod of agreement. That’s because flashing is an essential piece of metal strategically placed to combat sneaky water intrusion. You’ll typically see it beneath windows, corner posts, J-channels and other areas that water could infiltrate.
It works by redirecting water away from vulnerable seams, gaps, and transitions, protecting your home from potential leaks and moisture damage. Proper flashing is crucial for maintaining the integrity of your siding system and preventing costly water damage.
Furring Strips
When walls are less than perfectly smooth, furring strips come to the rescue. These strips, usually made of wood, get attached directly to the wall. This provides a perfectly flat, level surface to which contractors can then attach your new siding.
The goal is to guarantee even and uniform installation of your siding. Furring strips help correct any wall imperfections that might hinder achieving that sought-after smooth, flat look.
Horizontal Siding
Horizontal siding is the most common type of siding, installed in rows that run horizontally along the building’s exterior. It’s known for its classic look and effective water drainage properties.
J-Channel
J-channels are trim pieces that, as the name suggests, resemble a “J” shape. Installers place J-channel around doors, windows, or the ends of siding runs to create a smooth and visually appealing edge. They are also used to finish edges around other exterior features like dormers and bay windows.
J-channels are designed to give your siding that polished final look. They come in a variety of materials to match your siding choice, including vinyl, aluminum, and fiber cement.
Lap
Where two siding panels overlap each other is known as a lap. Lap siding is a common type of siding that gets its name from the way the panels are installed, with each panel slightly overlapping the one below it.
Laps are not only essential to ensure the siding system is water-tight but they also help to create a visually appealing flow. They strategically conceal the nails that attach your siding to the exterior wall, giving your siding a more seamless and aesthetically pleasing appearance.
Nail Hole Punches
Found on the flange of the siding panels, the nail hole punches are the dedicated spots where nails secure those panels to the exterior walls. Properly using the nail hole punches makes sure the installation is robust, keeping those siding panels attached securely. When installing siding, it’s crucial to use corrosion-resistant nails that are long enough to penetrate the sheathing and provide a secure hold.
Rake Board
A rake board is a trim piece installed at the top edge of the gable, where the roof meets the wall. It provides a finished look and protects the edges of siding from moisture.
Siding Gauge
The siding gauge refers to the thickness of the siding material. Different gauges can affect durability, weight, and price, so it’s important to choose a gauge that suits your needs.
Square
While your contractor won’t be talking about geometric shapes, a “square” in the siding world signifies a 10 feet × 10 feet piece of siding. Knowing this basic siding term will help you understand siding estimations and ensure you get the right quantity of material needed for your project.
Starter Strip
Imagine the starter strip as the very first piece of siding, the foundation that sets the tone for the entire installation. Starter strips form the base for the very first row of siding, anchoring it firmly to the wall. They ensure that the first row of siding is straight and level, which is crucial for the overall appearance and performance of the siding.
Trim
Trim includes various finishing pieces used around doors, windows, and corners of siding. It not only completes the look of the installation but also provides protection against weather elements.
Underlayment
Underlayment is a layer applied beneath siding to provide additional protection against water intrusion. It acts as a barrier against moisture and can help improve insulation.
Vertical Siding
Vertical siding is installed vertically rather than horizontally. This style can create a unique aesthetic and is often used in modern designs or to emphasize height in a structure.
Weep Holes
Found along the lower edge of your siding panels are tiny holes, known as weep holes, that prevent unwanted moisture buildup. They serve a crucial purpose – preventing condensation from becoming trapped between your siding and the backerboard. This ensures that your home is protected against moisture issues that could lead to problems like rot or mold.
It’s always a good idea to make sure these weep holes remain clear to allow proper drainage. During routine maintenance, check that the weep holes are not obstructed by debris or paint.
Other Important Siding Terms
Here are a few more essential siding terms that will be helpful to know:
| Siding Term | Description |
|---|---|
| Miter Joint | A miter joint is a type of joint where two pieces of siding are cut at an angle and joined together, typically at a 45-degree angle, to create a corner. |
| Panel Siding | Panel siding, as its name implies, is made up of large panels that are installed horizontally. These panels come in various materials such as vinyl, wood, and fiber cement. |
| Siding Nails | These aren’t your ordinary nails. Siding nails are specially designed for – you guessed it – installing siding. They have a larger head than standard nails to help hold the siding panels securely in place, and they are often galvanized or coated to resist corrosion. |
| Siding Profile | Siding profile refers to the shape and style of the siding panels. There are many different siding profiles available, such as traditional lap siding, Dutch lap siding, and shake siding, each with its own unique look. |
| Soffit Panel | Soffit panels are installed under the eaves of your roof. They enclose the underside of the roof overhang, protecting the rafters and eaves from the elements and pests, while also providing ventilation. |
| Wall Siding | Wall siding, also simply referred to as siding, is the protective outer layer applied to the exterior walls of a building. Its primary function is to deflect water, preventing it from infiltrating the structure and causing damage. |
Conclusion
Understanding basic siding terms will empower you during your next siding project. Whether discussing specific needs with contractors or simply understanding the process better, knowledge of these terms will ensure a smoother and more enjoyable experience. From the foundation-like role of backerboards to the water-wicking magic of weep holes, you are now prepared to discuss the complexities of siding confidently. Contact JASB Roofing & Exterior Remodeling today for your next siding installation job!
