Projects With Wood Plank Siding

Conventional Applications

• Wood plank siding's most familiar application is use as an exterior wall covering material. The most common types of planks are lap siding planks and tongue-and-groove siding planks. There are several sub-types of lap siding, including bevel siding and shiplap. Tongue-and-groove siding consists of interlocking edges; one edge forms a recessed channel and the opposite edge forms a corresponding ridge. Along with exterior walls, wood siding planks often cover the rafters of exterior soffits.

Outbuildings

• Wood plank siding is suitable for all types of detached accessory buildings. If your home has wood plank siding, using a matching material on accessory structures gives your property a sense of architectural continuity. Wood plank siding is a common choice for guest-house buildings, pool houses and sheds. Unusual applications of plank siding include exterior wall coverings for dog-houses, playhouses and tree forts.

Interior Walls, Floors and Ceilings

• Exterior plank siding adds a rustic look to common interior projects. Lap and tongue-and-groove siding planks are typically suitable for use as flooring, wall coverings and ceiling finishes. Vertically oriented planks on a wall resemble a wide version of classic wainscoting. While siding planks are certain to have more knots and imperfections than interior-grade hardwood, their rough appearance adds character to interior projects. Rough-sawn products may require resurfacing or planing before use as floor coverings. Check with your local building department before using siding materials indoors.

Finish Carpentry Projects

• Possible finish carpentry applications of wood siding include cabinetry and furniture. Instead of facing cabinets with hardwood veneer or plywood, consider cladding the cabinets with siding. With proper bracing, you can also use siding planks to construct cabinet doors. Siding planks work well for constructing tabletops. You can lap or interlock the planks to create a solid table surface or leave gaps to build an outdoor picnic table. Siding planks similarly apply to chair and bench construction. Use the planks as the seat portion of a chair or as the chair's back.