Easy DIY Tips for Achieving Authentic Farmhouse Siding
Achieving the charming, rustic look of authentic farmhouse siding can seem daunting, but with the right DIY tips, you can give your home a beautiful facelift without breaking the bank. Whether you opt for classic white lap siding, natural wood tones, or a bold painted exterior, a few simple tricks will help you install siding with a timeless farmhouse vibe.
From choosing materials to adding special accents, read on for our best easy DIY tips to make your home's siding look straight off an old country farm.
Popular Farmhouse Siding Styles
When planning your farmhouse siding project, consider which style will complement your home's architecture and achieve the aesthetic you're going for. Here are some of the most popular options for an authentic look:
Board and Batten Siding
Board and batten siding features vertical boards with narrow strips of wood (battens) covering the seams. This style has a very rustic, traditional vibe perfect for modern farmhouses. DIY installation is simple if you have basic carpentry skills. Use a circular saw to cut smooth planks to length, then nail the battens over the board joints. Paint or stain for a flawless finish.
Lap Siding
Lap siding is made of horizontal wood boards that slightly overlap one another. This timeless style works on all types of farmhouses. Start by properly spacing your support beams. Then measure and cut siding boards to size. Use a nail gun or hammer to attach the boards, overlapping by at least 1 inch. Maintain alignment and leave proper gaps for expansion.
Shake Siding
Wood shakes or shingles give a cottage-like feel. Cut each shake to size from cedar or pine. Nail an even starter row, then install shakes in staggered rows, leaving equal exposure. Use galvanized nails and leave gaps for ventilation. This rustic siding is easy to install yourself.
Farmhouse Siding Materials
Choosing the right materials for your farmhouse siding ensures it looks authentic and withstands weathering. Here are some top options for DIY installations:
Wood Siding
For a truly classic farmhouse, natural wood siding is your best bet. Cedar and pine offer durability and a beautiful grain. Prep boards by sanding and sealing the back and edges before installation. When mounting, leave adequate ventilation space between boards. Periodically clean and restain for protection.
Fiber Cement
Fiber cement siding offers a more affordable, low maintenance alternative to real wood. It combines wood pulp and cement for rigidity. Use a circular saw with a dust collection system to cut fiber cement boards to size. Drill pilot holes to avoid cracking. Install with galvanized, corrosion-resistant screws.
Vinyl Siding
Vinyl is another budget-friendly siding option. It won't crack, peel, or rot over time. Ensure a smooth facade for painted vinyl by installing furring strips or a solid sheathing layer first. Snap vinyl siding panels into place over tabs, leaving room for expansion. Use a zip tool to trim siding at doors, windows, and edges.
Classic Farmhouse Siding Colors
Choosing the perfect color for your farmhouse siding can make all the difference in achieving an authentic vibe. Here are some foolproof shade options to try:
White
A bright white exterior is the quintessential farmhouse look. For wood siding, apply a primer then 2-3 coats of 100% acrylic latex paint. Caulk gaps and use high-quality brushes for a smooth finish. For vinyl, select white panels or prep and paint prefinished siding.
Light Gray
If crisp white feels too stark, opt for light gray siding with subtle undertones. After proper cleaning and priming, apply 2 coats of water-based acrylic paint. Add dimension by painting white accents like window trim.
Natural Wood Tones
Showcase the natural beauty of real wood siding by using transparent stains in warm cedar, rustic brown, or charcoal hues. Prepare new or weathered boards with gentle sanding, then brush on stain. Reapply every 2-4 years.
Bold Colors
Make a statement with deeper, richer colors like forest green, navy blue, or brick red. Priming is crucial for an even tone. Use 100% acrylic exterior grade paint for durability. Accent with white trim, black windows, and neutral roofs.
Accent Details
Special accents like contrasting window frames, shutters, and decorative beams give farmhouse siding extra rustic flair. DIY installations can save thousands over hiring a pro. Here are easy ways to add charming accents yourself:
Black Window Frames
Paint window frames, casings, and sills black for bold definition against light siding. Scrape away loose paint, caulk cracks, prime, then use exterior grade acrylic enamel paint. Add two coats for coverage.
Brick or Stone
Use thin faux brick or stone veneers to create a rustic foundation or accent wall. Prepare the surface by cleaning and applying adhesive primer. Measure and cut veneers to fit, then press into adhesive for easy installation.
Shutters, Beams, and Metal Roofing
Install ready-made shutters or cut your own from cedar plank. Paint to match your color scheme. Distressed wood beams add a farmhouse touch. Cut beams to size, sand, finish, and mount with brackets. For metal roofing, ensure at least a 2/12 roof pitch, then overlap panels and screw into the sheathing.
Achieving an Authentic Farmhouse Look
To ensure your DIY siding and accents have an authentic farmhouse vibe:
- Match the architectural style used on old farmhouses in your area. Consider details like roof pitch, windows, and additions.
- Focus on simple, clean lines and minimal ornamentation for a timeless look.
- Use naturally weathered wood or paint/stain finishes to emulate aged siding.
- Wrap siding fully around corners for a seamless, integrated appearance.
With the right materials, style, colors, and accents, you can transform the exterior of your home. Follow our DIY tips to keep your project budget-friendly. In no time, you'll be enjoying curb appeal that evokes cozy countryside charm. We hope these ideas have inspired you to create the rustic farmhouse look you've been dreaming of. Happy renovating!