by Last Updated on April 18, 2025 by legacy450
You might not recognize the Dutch lap siding profile by name, but you will likely recognize it by its shape. This profile has been around for many decades and is very common along the eastern coast of the United States.
Dutch lap siding is also referred to as German lap siding, German Dutch lap siding, cove Dutch lap siding, drop lap siding, drop siding, cove lap, wood pattern 105, WP105, Dutch shiplap, or German shiplap. You have probably seen vinyl siding that features a very similar profile.
The wood version of Dutch lap siding closely resembles traditional shiplap and channel rustic siding, except for a distinct radius section on the upper leading edge of each board. While shiplap siding has a flat face, channel rustic siding has a square relief milled on the top side, and Dutch lap siding features a scooped groove profile.
Dutch lap siding is installed just like shiplap, making it effective at sealing out wind, rain, and other natural elements. This unique profile has been replicated in almost every type of siding material available on the market, including vinyl siding, due to the distinctive shadow line it provides.
Species and Material Grades:
Cedar and Cypress wood species are great options for a new custom home. Cedar Dutch Lap is most readily available in STK grade (select tight knot) or higher grades may be available based on mill production runs. The most common size is a 1 x 6 but other sizes may be available as a custom milled product. The face of each board including the radius will have a smooth texture for clean classic look.
Cypress Dutch Lap Siding is readily available in #2 common grade which will have visible knots (similar to cedar STK grade) and can be had in the higher “Select” grade. Both species will have a smooth board face and a smooth radius for that clean classic look.
Pine is an option as well and many old historical homes are re-sided with a pressure-treated KDAT (Kiln Dried After Treatment) version that is primed on all six sides. Using pine in this form leaves the owner with one finish option and that is to apply a solid color either in the factory or on the job site after the material is installed. Some builders prefer a primed plus one factory coat application and then will apply a second solid color coat after the installation to make sure everything is coated properly.
Finishing
As with any type of natural wood siding, the best way to protect the wood and your investment is to have it stained, primed, or painted before it is installed (known as Prefinishing). When prefinished in any one of these options, the backside will be coated (also known as back primed) to protect the wood from moisture and harmful UV rays. If you have a small job, this task can be done at the job site if you have adequate space, racking, and window of good weather above 40 degrees F. If this is an issue call us and see if we can help.
NOTE: It’s important to note that when installing any siding whether it be natural wood, fiber cement, engineered wood any cuts done in the field need to be sealed with either a primer, stain, or latex based paint. This is the best way to make sure moisture does not get absorbed into the siding boards causing a premature failure which will lead to the material needing to be replaced somewhere down the road.
Benefits of Pre-Finishing
Prefinishing your new siding offers several benefits, including the ability to perform this service year-round. Firstly, our facility is indoors and climate-controlled, so factors such as wind, rain, snow, pollen, direct sunlight, dew, leaves, and other debris are not a concern.
Secondly, the finish is applied by machine, which eliminates issues such as runs, drips, sags, or lap marks. Thirdly, each board receives a consistent finish from end to end, ensuring uniformity throughout the entire project.
Additionally, there is no need for onsite paint cleanup, masking of windows, or worries about overspray affecting other parts of the house or neighboring contractors.
Moreover, your siding is installed already finished, providing instant curb appeal as your home starts to take shape throughout the job. Lastly, we include touch-up paint with every order, allowing you to seal field cuts with the same paint or stain used in the original application, ensuring color consistency.
If you have any questions at all please call us at 704-528-7136 or send us an e-mail to sales@legacyprefinishing.com
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