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Lap Siding

Fiber Cement Lap Siding from James Hardie® is a popular style of siding that complements a wide range of homes in Texas.

Preview Construction is a James Hardie® approved contractor in Texas offering one of the best selections of James Hardie® fiber cement lap siding.

Before discussing your options, let’s get back to the basics briefly:

What is Lap Siding?

Lap siding can be defined as siding installed horizontally. It is composed of long flat boards overlapping each other (hence the name lap siding). There are several types of lap siding. The most popular types among homeowners are beaded and traditional clapboard siding.

Most new and remodeled homes have this type of siding on the exterior because of its clean and aesthetically pleasing appearance.

Types of Lap Siding

Technically, there are several types, with each having its own distinct look. Lap siding can also be available in many materials. Understanding lap siding is the “key” to ensuring you make the best possible decision when you decide to replace your siding.

Types of Lap Siding by Design/Look/Style

The main types include:

A. Traditional

When you think about lap siding today, you probably think of traditional lap siding. This siding is characterized by a top narrow end of siding tucked under a wider bottom. If you aren’t specific about the lap siding you want, you’ll most probably end up with traditional siding.

B. Dutch Lap/Horizontal Lap

Dutch lap siding features slightly concave pieces that create a deeper shadow and reveal than clapboard siding.

C. Clapboard siding

Clapboard features wedge-shaped pieces that are thinner on top and wider at the bottom. The pieces overlap each other, creating an even profile. Clapboard lap siding is more popular in some areas than others (New England). However, it can be found in many places.

D. Beaded

Beaded lap siding features a thicker bottom edge (or bead) that offers a more dynamic shadow with the top overlapping the bottom. While beaded lap siding is rare, it offers a better decorative appearance.

Types of Lap Siding by Material

Traditionally, lap siding was made using wood. However, durability issues became apparent, launching a search for better alternatives. Wood siding must be stained or painted to protect it from many elements ranging from weather to insects and fungus.

There may be other alternatives to wood siding i.e., vinyl siding. However, vinyl siding is usually prone to cracks because it lacks enough hardness and thickness. Vinyl siding also lacks heat resistant properties. In extreme heat, it will soften and melt. As a result, it's not the first pick for many homeowners.

What’s the best lap siding in regard to the material?

Fiber Cement Lap Siding

The exterior application of lap siding makes durability a critical factor. Fiber cement is arguably the most durable type of lap siding available today. The siding outlasts wood and vinyl siding. It also requires less maintenance.

The siding doesn't peel, chip, hold moisture, or catch fire (it’s fire-resistant). It's also insect resistant. Fiber cement siding can be bought in different widths making custom installations possible. The siding can be installed in traditional and many other style applications allowing homeowners to get the look they want easily. Fiber cement lap siding is also available in many widths making installation customizable. 

Most importantly, it comes in many colors, coordinating trims and soffits, allowing a complete custom home exterior style. 

Fiber Cement Lap Siding from James Hardie®

James Hardie® is a renowned fiber cement siding brand with a wide selection of lap siding.

I. SELECT CEDARMILL©

This siding offers a natural cedar look with a soft texture mimicking wood. The siding comes in classic shades engineered with ColorPlus® Technology, as well as a pre-primed product that can be painted any color you can imagine. Cedarmill lap siding will make a statement for generations. It's a perfect choice for historic homes, ranch houses, woodsy retreats, and mountain chalets.

II. Smooth

This fiber cement lap siding by James Hardie® offers a sleek and modern look. 



James Hardie smooth lap siding has become increasingly popular over the last 10 years due to a shift in exterior design created by TV shows like “Fixer Upper” with Joanna and Chip Gaines. These newer exterior designs are often referred to as Modern Farmhouse.

III. Beaded Cedarmill©

This siding borrows inspiration from coastal communities. The style brims with charm.

Other options include:

Beaded Smooth offers a smooth modern siding with an edge.



Colonial Roughsawn® and Colonial Smooth® are James Hardie’s answer to traditional Dutch-style lap siding, with a subtle shadow line at the top of each board.

Schedule a James Hardie® lap siding QUOTE now on our online calendar. It's easy to book and easy to reschedule.