The building and construction industry is filled with innovative ideas from contractors who are ready to transform ordinary materials into homes and properties they have always envisioned. One such creative concept is the use of Dutch lap siding as a finish to protect the walls of a building or structure. Some people like to call it German lap siding while others call it cover siding.
The end-result of Dutch lap siding resembles traditional clapboard is what matters. If you are stuck at deciding on the mounting block for your project, have a look at the following facts:
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How does a Dutch lap siding mounting block look like?
If you can remember how the hand-carved wood sliding that was formed ages ago, then Dutch lap siding will help take your memory back to those days. Dutch lap siding mounting block is beveled and square. During the project, all the rows must project from an exterior wall at a deeper angle.
There is something unique about the Dutch lap siding that makes it create that classic old world look. Houses that bear this type of siding have a distinctive appearance that makes them stand out of the crowd. The curve that runs along the top edge of the siding panel is what creates the heavy shadow line characteristic of this unique type of siding.
Vinyl siding comes in many variants that ape the old hand-carved wooden board look. Unlike wood, this type of siding is real value for your money. Once you install the Dutch lap siding mounting block, you can improve its appearance by painting it.
How do you install an exterior light fixture on Dutch lap siding?
Both exterior and interior lights are installed almost in a similar manner. The only difference between them is that exterior lighting requires extra wiring to which they are connected that protects it against moisture. When you are installing lights on the Dutch lap siding, you do not need to worry about the wiring since it is already protected from the inside.
When you are shopping for exterior light fixtures, you may have noticed that they come with enough insulation required to protect it from moisture. Also, they are covered with rubber gaskets that seal the fixture against a flat surface. Even if the gasket does not seal effectively against the Dutch siding, you can opt for a Dutch lap siding mounting block.
How do you attach the mounting block to Dutch lap siding?
First, you will need siding tools such as a 4-in-1 screwdriver, a cordless drill, and a wire stripper/cutter. In terms of materials, you can get a cable connector, caulk, exterior screws, Dutch lap siding mounting block, and wire nuts. If you get a mounting kit from Arlington industries, you will have all the features and benefits at your disposal.
Before installing or replacing the sliding on the wall, make sure you have measured them to ensure they are all equal in terms of thickness and length. Also, go for trim pieces since they are better placed to hold the sidings in position. Now you can create a small space where the sidings can expand or contract.
They should overlap each other to give more room for expansion and contraction. In all you do, make sure the last boards are on the same level. You can achieve that by marking a level baseline of the house before you start the actual installation.
Installation process
- Using your screwdriver, create a hole in the box of the wall. The flange has already provided holes that you can put to use. Now you can install the siding.
- Remove the knockout from the electrical box then insert the cable connector. Have the wire pass through any knockout.
- Install a siding to cover the box section and caulk when required.
- Have the wires connected and introduce the fixture based on the manufacturer’s instructions.
What specifications does the Arlington 8171-1 mounting kit have?

If you are fond of buying your products from Amazon, then you will be happy to learn that they have a fantastic mounting kit at an unbeatable offer. The kit is a UL listed electrical box measuring 4” round with a depth of 05”. The mounting cover is strong and flat to create a perfect mounting surface.
The Arlington 8171-1 mounting kit is ideal for smaller Dutch lap siding mounting block projects, including fixing light fixtures. Not only is it fast and easy to install, but it also has a texture that promotes painting. The electrical box design supports the UL listed installation, making it ideal for all types of siding projects.
How can you benefit from Dutch lap siding?
- Strong and durable: This type of siding has a groove that can withstand the possibility of stretching or bending beyond its elastic limit. This adds strength to the siding and makes your wall last longer. Also, it does well in areas experiencing temperate climates characterized by a wide temperature range. Houses built in areas that are more prone to strong storms, hurricanes, and tornadoes can also benefit from this type of siding.
- Harder to break: Dutch lap siding has an increased surface area by the groove. No matter how hard the forces meant to bend the Arlington 8171-1 siding mounting might be, breaking it will be difficult.
- Aesthetic value: The curved mounting kit is so strong that it creates an illusion of straightness when installed. The siding will appear to be parallel and well-aligned, as in the case of wooden planks. When you compare houses that have Dutch lap siding with those that use other types of siding, you will notice a big difference.
If you are planning to build your first home or want to upgrade to something more unique, going for a Dutch lap siding technique will work to your advantage. The method is common in residential areas because the material used is partially placed below the subsequent strip of the wall. This aspect alone adds an aesthetic value to the siding. Also, the form of the grove will make your wall last longer, saving you from unnecessary repair expenses