Most homeowners never need to know technical terms associated with siding. However, if you pursue a siding replacement, familiarity with common industry jargon will enhance your knowledge of the process. That way, you’ll feel more comfortable and informed about the work performed by the siding installer. You may also successfully distinguish between different siding products to know what is the best fit for your situation.
6 Of The Most Common Siding Terms For “Insiders”
1. Course:
A course is a row of siding extending horizontally along a wall’s entire length from edge to edge. Alternatively, a course can be a vertical column of siding running from the top of the house to the bottom. Each course parallels the adjacent course to form a consistent and uniform pattern.
2. Gauge:
Gauge refers to the thickness of a standard siding piece. Typically, a thicker panel of siding performs better than a thinner one. A lower number indicates a denser material. For instance, a .26 gauge metal siding piece is approximately 25% thicker than a comparable .29 gauge piece.
3. Lap:
The lap represents the percentage of the siding panel that overlaps with another panel. The lap portion of the siding panel is hidden, while the remaining part is visible. On average, a siding panel will span two laps. The lap is measured from the bottom of the panel to the first lap.
4. Water Table Band:
Typically, the siding installer will attach this wide trim board (commonly known as a water table band or skirt board) along the bottom edge of a wall at the same level as a home’s ground floor. This board is generally 8’ or more in height. Once it has been installed, adding siding panels can commence.
5. Weep Hole:
The siding installer must include weep holes near the bottom edge of the lowest siding panel to allow water from condensation to escape. Water can seep through tiny openings in siding, but strategically placed weep holes effectively prevent significant moisture damage beneath the exterior.
6. Wind Load Rating:
Homeowners should understand this metric. It tracks the maximum wind speed a siding product can withstand without uplift or tear-off. Windy regions face an elevated risk of siding damage. Most siding materials have a wind load rating of at least 100mph. However, you may need something even more robust.
Hiring A Knowledgeable Siding Installer
For homeowners and businesses in and around Indianapolis, Moss Roofing provides exceptional siding products and craftsmanship. Because of our knowledge and experience, we are the unquestioned authority in siding and roofing. Trust the expert to perform the siding job to the industry’s highest specifications.
At Moss Roofing, we understand that siding means much more than curb appeal. You need it to perform in any weather conditions, including wind, rain, hail, and temperature extremes. To ensure you receive the best siding, we offer a full line of industry-leading products from CertainTeed and James Hardie.
Contact us today to learn more about Moss Roofing’s unsurpassed siding services or to schedule an appointment and receive a free siding estimate.
