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Undoubtedly one of the most overlooked features, or should I say building materials, used for this Victorian home is the smooth 3/4″ solid cypress lap siding. One of the interesting things I found out several months ago after talking to Rhett Bonner was that true Victorian architecture calls for the lap siding to create deep shadow lines.
Remember…back when they were building Victorian homes, all siding being used was solid wood and it was not a mere 5/16″, as is available today.
The owners of this home originally wanted fiber cement lap siding (Hardie plank). Hardiplank does not come in 3/4″ planks, only 5/16″. The Bonner Custom Home team was able to convince the owners to go with the cypress siding to aid in that full-blown Victorian home look…inside and out.
The result of choosing 3/4″ lap siding is noticeable. I look at enough houses on a regular basis to say that with complete confidence. It creates a different look altogether.
Why is the thickness of the siding such an important factor for this homebuilding construction project by Bonner Custom Homes? The answer is simple. Architectural integrity…a phrase that resonates throughout the Bonner team, from founder Jerry Bonner…on down the line. Have a 15 minute conversation with any one of them and you, too, would get the same vibe.
Another great reason to choose cypress siding is its ability to naturally repel insects and the attributes mentioned below.
“People who work with cypress on a regular basis say the wood’s natural durability is a plus for exterior application. Because cypress generates cypressene, its own preservative oil, its heartwood is naturally resistant to insects, decay, chemical corrosion and other damaging elements.” Source
If you’re considering all of the different types of siding for your construction project, take a few minutes to review a few great links regarding cypress siding with additional information of other siding options and wood species considerations:
A Guide to American Hardwood Species
Siding material Cost Comparisons
Cypress: Strength and Mechanical Properties
Everything You Ever Wanted To Know About Cypress…and then some
Resources:
Hardwood Manufacturers Association
CalFinder: The Source for Certified Remodeling Contractors
Southern Cypress Manufacturers Association
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Interested in learning more about this Victorian home?
I started as a home-stalker… visiting brand new homes under construction in the neighborhoods near my house. That inspired me to write about home building and home renovation projects — chronicling homes during different phases of construction from a consumer's point-of-view. Basically, the tips you'll find in my articles are a collection of checklists for what I think should (and should not) go into building or remodeling a quality home.
