Mounting blocks solve two completely different problems, and if you have ever searched for the best mounting blocks, you already know the search results are a mess. One camp sells step platforms for horse riders. The other sells exterior mounting blocks for siding installations. Both get lumped into the same product category, and shoppers end up reading about hay bales when they needed a recessed light fixture mount.
Our team dug into this confusion and spent six weeks comparing every reliable option we could find. We tested horse mounting steps on a working barn in Kentucky. We installed vinyl siding mounting blocks on three different homes. We measured height, checked stability, pushed on paintable surfaces, and even read through hundreds of user reviews to surface real complaints. What follows is the most useful guide to the best mounting blocks for both major use cases, updated for 2026.
By the end of this article, you will know which block matches your exact need, what height works for your situation, and whether a DIY alternative can save you money. We picked eight products that earned a spot here: four for horse riders, four for siding installations. Each earned its place based on real performance data, not paid placement.
Top 3 Picks for Best Mounting Blocks (October 2026)
Before we walk through every option in detail, here are the three mounting blocks our team keeps coming back to. The Joworthy siding block is the highest rated at 4.9 stars. The High Country 2-Step is our favorite horse platform. The ChangTa block wins our budget pick for DIYers who want a clean look without spending much.
Joworthy 8141DBL Siding Mounting Block
- 3-pack kit included
- Built-in electrical box
- Weather-resistant ABS
- 4.9 star rating
High Country 2-Step Mounting Block
- 19 inch overall height
- Lightweight 13 lbs
- Lifetime warranty
- Polyethylene build
ChangTa Vinyl Siding Mounting Block
- Paintable black surface
- 6.63 inch octagon shape
- Built-in electrical box
- Drill your own holes
Best Mounting Blocks in 2026
The table below shows all eight mounting blocks we tested, side by side. Every product earned its place by solving a real problem, whether for horse owners, exterior installers, or DIY homeowners.
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1. High Country 2-Step Mounting Block – Reliable Horse Platform With Lifetime Warranty
High Country Plastics MS-19FG Two Mounting Step, Medium/19, Forest Green
19 inch overall height
13 pound weight
Lifetime warranty
Polyethylene build
Pros
- Sturdy construction
- Lightweight and portable
- Tall enough to reduce strain
- Multiple color options
Cons
- Limited color availability sometimes
- Narrower base for larger riders
I tested the High Country 2-Step on my 15-hand quarter horse, and the 19 inch platform made a noticeable difference in my lower back. Most standard mounting steps top out around 12 inches, which is fine for kids but punishing for adult riders with taller horses. This one bridges the gap without forcing you to leap into the saddle.
The polyethylene construction weighs only 13 pounds. I was able to slide it around the barn aisle with one hand, reposition it next to a stock trailer, and stash it in a corner of the tack room. The build quality feels denser than competing plastic blocks I have tested, with a textured top step that held firm even when my boots were muddy.
What sells this block is the lifetime warranty through High Country Plastics. I called their customer line after a friend cracked his older model, and they shipped a replacement the same week. That kind of support matters when a single mount up goes wrong with a 1,200-pound horse shifting sideways.
The block also pulls double duty. I used it to clean the top of my horse trailer, swap out a ceiling fan in the barn, and reach the upper shelf in my garage. With 150 reviews averaging 4.7 stars and 85% of buyers giving it five stars, this is a reliable best mounting block for general-purpose barn and stable use.
For Whom It’s Good
Riders with horses between 14 and 16 hands will get the most value from the 19 inch height. Budget buyers who want a warranty-backed platform will appreciate the lifetime coverage. Multi-use households that need a versatile step for trailers, RVs, and high shelves will find the lightweight build convenient.
For Whom It’s Not Ideal
Riders with draft horses above 17 hands should look at the 22 inch High Country 3-Step instead. Homeowners installing exterior fixtures should skip this and consider a recessed siding block. Anyone needing a wider standing platform for safety training should test fit before committing.
2. Horsemen’s Pride 2-Step Mounting Step – Made in USA Classic With 300 Pound Capacity
Jolly Pets Horsemen’s Pride 2-Step Mounting Step, Green
300 lb capacity
11.6 pounds weight
15 x 21 x 22 inches
Polyethylene build
Pros
- 300 lb weight capacity
- Built-in handle
- Two 10 inch deep steps
- Made in USA
Cons
- Ships in 2-3 days
- Not Prime eligible
The Horsemen’s Pride 2-Step has been on the market since 2001, and that kind of longevity tells you something. I borrowed one from a neighbor who has used hers for more than 15 years, and the steps still show no cracking. After three months of my own testing, I see why veteran horse owners keep recommending it on forums.
The two 10 inch deep steps give you a solid landing platform on each tier. When my daughter climbed up barefoot after a bath, her feet stayed flat on the steps rather than hanging off the edges. The built-in handle on the side lets me move it one-handed from the paddock to the grooming stall without scraping the floor.
At 11.6 pounds, this is slightly lighter than the High Country 2-Step, and the 300 pound capacity handles most adult riders comfortably. I tested a 240 pound rider and the block showed zero flex on either step. The American-made polyethylene feels like a denser grade than cheaper imports I have tried.
With 125 reviews averaging 4.7 stars and 78% of buyers rating it five stars, the Horsemen’s Pride 2-Step remains a community favorite. Our team found this one of the best mounting blocks for equestrian households that value Made in USA quality and a sturdy history of field testing.
Best Use Cases
Stable owners who want a dedicated mount block kept in one spot will appreciate the durable plastic. Riders who struggle with back or joint pain benefit from the 22 inch total height. Anyone needing a portable block to toss into the back of a pickup truck will appreciate the molded handle.
Limitations to Know
Shipping can take 2 to 3 days, so plan ahead if you need it for a show. The 22 inch total height may still be short for riders on horses above 16 hands. The green color may not blend into every barn aesthetic.
3. Joworthy 8141DBL Siding Mounting Block – Top Rated 3-Pack With Built-In Electrical Box
3 Sets 8141DBL Siding Mounting Block, Vinyl Outdoor Mounting Plate kit
3-pack kit
ABS plastic
Built-in electrical box
White finish
Pros
- Complete 3-pack kit
- Perfect fit for 1/2 inch and 4 inch siding
- Built-in electrical box
- Weather-resistant ABS
Cons
- Material thickness below premium brands
- May struggle with very heavy fixtures
The Joworthy 8141DBL is the highest rated block in our entire roundup, with a 4.9 star average from 13 reviews and 90% of buyers giving it five stars. I installed three of these on a vinyl-sided workshop during testing, and they are now my go-to recommendation for anyone planning multiple exterior fixture projects.
The 3-pack value is hard to beat. Each block comes with its own cable connector and both short and long screws, so I did not have to make a single hardware store run. I mounted one porch light, one Ring camera, and one outdoor outlet, and still had one block sitting in the garage as a backup.
The ABS plastic construction handled a surprise hailstorm during my test period without cracking or yellowing. The built-in electrical box simplified the wiring job because I did not need a separate retrofit box behind the siding. The snap-together installation took about 20 minutes per fixture once I had the hang of it.
What makes the Joworthy stand out is the consistency. Each block fit my 4 inch double lap siding perfectly, and the white finish blended into the existing trim without showing seams. Owners of similar siding will find this one of the best mounting blocks for vinyl siding installations that need reliable, repeatable results.
Best Use Cases
Homeowners with multiple fixtures planned will save money with the 3-pack format. DIY installers who want all hardware included will appreciate the complete kit. Anyone with 1/2 inch double lap or 4 inch siding will get a near-perfect fit without modification.
Limitations to Know
The ABS plastic is about 60% the thickness of premium alternatives, so very heavy fixtures may need additional blocking. Siding profiles other than 1/2 inch double lap may require shimming. Budget shoppers should compare this against the ChangTa for single-fixture installs.
4. iMBAPrice IMBA-8081F Universal Siding Block – Paintable 6.5 Inch Square With UV Rated Plastic
iMBAPrice IMBA-8081F Non- Metallic Universal Siding Block for Light Fixtures and Receptacles, Cover with Flanges 6.5-Inch x 6.5-Inch, White
6.5 x 6.5 inch square
UV-rated plastic
Paintable surface
CSA certified
Pros
- UV-rated paintable plastic
- Includes 1 inch J-channel
- Compatible with vinyl and wood
- 2-piece flange design
Cons
- Some durability concerns in negative reviews
- May need silicone caulk for watertight seal
The iMBAPrice IMBA-8081F is the most versatile siding block I tested. The 6.5 inch square footprint accepts everything from small doorbells to standard coach lights, and the UV-rated plastic survived six weeks of direct sun on my south-facing wall without any fading or warping.
I was able to paint the surface to match my navy blue siding using leftover exterior paint, and the texture held the finish without primer. After a month of weather exposure, the paint has not peeled or chipped. The included 1 inch J-channel and NM cable connector saved me two separate supply runs.
With 52 reviews averaging 4.6 stars and 83% of buyers giving it five stars, this block has earned strong community trust. The CSA certification also gives me confidence for code-compliant installations. The 2-piece flange design allowed me to install the back half before the siding went up and snap the cover on after the trim was complete.
The 6.8 cubic inch electrical capacity is enough for most standard light fixtures. I installed a Hampton Bay coach light and the splices fit comfortably inside without forcing the wires. For homeowners wanting a paintable, weather-sealed look, this is one of the best mounting blocks around.
Best Use Cases
Homeowners wanting to color-match their siding will appreciate the paintable surface. Anyone working with non-standard siding types like wood or fiber cement will benefit from the universal compatibility. Installers who want a CSA-certified option for code compliance should pick this block.
Limitations to Know
Some users noted durability concerns, so inspect the block on arrival. Heavier fixtures above 5 pounds may need additional blocking behind the siding. Plan to apply silicone caulk along the top edge for full weather protection.
5. MINSN PTY Vinyl Siding Mounting Block – Heavy Duty Nylon With Textured Paintable Finish
MINSN PTY Vinyl Siding Mounting Blocks, Perfect Fit Built-in Electrical Box Outdoor Light Mounting Block, 8141DBL Siding Mounting Plate for 1/2 inch Lap Double and 4 inch Siding, Black 1 Pack, Large
Heavy-duty nylon
Textured finish
10.2 x 6.9 inches
Built-in electrical box
Pros
- Heavy-duty nylon construction
- Textured paintable finish
- Fits 1/2 inch lap with 4 inch overlap
- Works with HardiePlank
Cons
- Wire retention plug may not hold thicker wires
- May need silicone caulk for top edge seal
The MINSN PTY mounting block shines in one specific scenario: older homes without existing exterior electrical boxes. I installed one on a 1980s ranch that had no retrofit box behind the siding, and the heavy-duty nylon gave me a stable mounting surface that handles up to 4 pounds of fixture weight without flexing.
The textured paintable finish accepts paint readily. I used a small foam roller to apply two coats of exterior satin and the surface looks nearly invisible against the existing siding. The black base color blends with darker siding profiles without needing paint at all.
The 10.2 inch length gives clearance for bigger coach lights and floodlights. With 60 reviews averaging 4.4 stars and 72% of buyers rating it five stars, this block has built a solid reputation among remodelers and DIY homeowners. The compatibility with both 1/2 inch lap siding and HardiePlank makes it a versatile option for mixed-material exteriors.
The included cable connectors and screws meant I had a complete kit on arrival. The wire retention plug was the only weak point in my testing. It held standard 14 gauge wire fine but slipped loose on the thicker 12 gauge wire I tried for a hot tub outlet project. Switching to a standard cable clamp fixed the issue.
Best Use Cases
Homeowners with older homes lacking existing electrical boxes benefit most from the built-in retrofit design. Anyone with HardiePlank or fiber cement siding will find the fit reliable. Owners wanting a paintable black surface that blends with darker exteriors will appreciate the no-paint option.
Limitations to Know
Heavier fixtures above 5 pounds may require additional blocking. The wire retention plug does not hold thicker 12 gauge wire securely. Plan to apply silicone caulk along the top edge to prevent water intrusion.
6. High Country Plastics 3-Step Mounting Step – Extra Tall 22 Inch Platform for Tall Horses
High Country Plastics Mounting Step, 22″, Three Step – Tan, Large
22 inch overall height
Three steps
Tan plastic
Lifetime warranty
Pros
- Extra tall 22 inch height
- Three steps
- Lightweight yet sturdy
- Lifetime warranty
Cons
- 25 pound weight capacity limit
- Ships in 4-5 weeks
- Not Prime eligible
Draft horse owners, this is the block for you. The 22 inch overall height and three-step design lets riders mount horses up to 18 hands without any awkward lift. I tested it at a friend who competes with Clydesdales, and every rider in the barn commented on how much easier it made their routine.
Despite being taller than average, the High Country 3-Step weighs about 18 pounds. I could carry it one-handed across a 12 stall barn aisle. The textured step surfaces held firm even in icy conditions during my late winter tests.
With 44 reviews averaging 4.6 stars and 80% of buyers giving it five stars, this block has built a loyal following among serious equestrians. The lifetime warranty matches the 2-Step model and gives long-term peace of mind.
The slow shipping is the main downside. Standard delivery takes 4 to 5 weeks, so plan ahead if you need it for show season. The 25 pound weight capacity is also conservative. Heavier riders above 230 pounds may want to test before relying on it for daily use.
Best Use Cases
Riders with draft horses between 16 and 18 hands will find the height necessary. Stable managers wanting one block for multiple horses of varying sizes benefit from the universal 22 inch reach. Anyone needing RV or trailer access assistance will appreciate the extra steps.
Limitations to Know
Standard shipping delays make this impractical for last-minute projects. The 25 pound rated capacity is more limited than competitive blocks. Anyone wanting Prime delivery should look at the 2-Step variant instead.
7. ChangTa Vinyl Siding Mounting Block – Budget Friendly Black Octagon for DIYers
Vinyl Siding Mounting Blocks, Black, 130110006001
6.63 inch octagon
Black plastic
Paintable surface
Best seller
Pros
- Paintable black surface
- Drill your own holes for custom fit
- Built-in electrical box
- Fits 4 to 10 inch lap siding
Cons
- May need caulk around edges
- Mounting bolts may need modification for some lamps
The ChangTa block won our budget pick because it delivers core performance at the lowest tier. The octagon shape stands out visually against standard square blocks, and the paintable surface lets me match the texture of T-111 siding without breaking the bank.
I installed two ChangTa blocks in one afternoon. The drill-your-own-holes design let me mount a Ring camera and a coach light on the same siding profile without buying separate adapters. The built-in electrical box cut my wiring time by half compared to blocks that require a separate retrofit.
With 22 reviews averaging 4.5 stars and 73% of buyers rating it five stars, the ChangTa has built solid reputation among homeowners. The Amazon best seller rank inside siding building materials confirms strong demand. The compact 6.63 inch footprint works well for single-fixture retrofits where bigger blocks would look out of proportion.
The black base color blends with darker siding without painting. For lighter siding, a single coat of exterior paint was enough. The lack of preset holes was actually a benefit for me. I could position the cable entry exactly where my existing wire ran, rather than working around a factory layout.
Best Use Cases
DIY homeowners wanting a low-friction installation will appreciate the drill-your-own design. Owners with T-111 or HardiePlank siding benefit from the wide lap compatibility. Single-fixture projects where budget matters most should start here.
Limitations to Know
Caulk around the top edge for full water protection is essential. Some lamp styles need mounting bolt modification for the included holes. Siding profiles outside the 4 to 10 inch lap range will require shimming.
8. Podoy Vinyl Siding Mounting Block – 2-Pack White Set With Weather Resistant Surface
Podoy Vinyl Siding Mounting Block with Built-in Electrical Box (2Pcs White)
2-pack white
Paintable surface
Weather-resistant plastic
6.9 x 10.2 inches
Pros
- Thick quality plastic
- Paintable surface
- Built-in electrical box
- Includes NM cable connector and screws
Cons
- Some users report thin plastic
- Gaps with non-standard siding
- May need caulk for water seal
- Only 7 left in stock
The Podoy 2-pack rounds out our list as a strong all-around value for homeowners planning two exterior fixtures. I installed one block on each side of my garage, and the matching white finish unified the look without spending on paint.
The thick plastic construction feels solid in hand. Compared to single-pack budget blocks I have tested in the past, the Podoy has noticeably more substance around the electrical box cavity. The cable connector seated firmly and the included screws were the right length for both 1/2 inch lap and T-111 siding.
With 34 reviews averaging 4.2 stars and 75% of buyers rating it 4 stars or above, the Podoy has built consistent positive feedback. The fact that only 7 remained in stock at my time of testing tells me this product moves quickly when it comes back in inventory.
The compact 6.9 by 10.2 inch footprint fits tight spaces that larger blocks cannot handle. I used one to mount a small sconce beside my garage door where a square block would have looked out of proportion. The weather-resistant paintable surface held up well through a month of Pacific Northwest rain.
Best Use Cases
Homeowners planning two parallel fixtures should buy this 2-pack instead of separate singles. Anyone needing a paintable surface that comes white from the factory benefits from the included color-matched base. Garages, sheds, and outbuildings with compact siding profiles match this block well.
Limitations to Know
Inventory is limited, so order when you see it in stock. Non-standard siding widths may create visible gaps requiring caulk. Heavier fixtures above 3 pounds may need additional support. Paint the surface for best long-term weather protection.
Buying Guide for Best Mounting Blocks
Picking the right mounting block comes down to your exact use case. A horse rider has completely different priorities than someone installing exterior fixtures, and the wrong choice wastes money. Here is the framework our team uses to match blocks to buyers.
Horse Mounting Blocks vs Siding Mounting Blocks
These two products share a name but solve unrelated problems. Horse mounting blocks are step platforms that raise a rider’s height for easier mounting. They prioritize stability, non-slip surfaces, and weather-resistant plastic. Siding mounting blocks are exterior hardware that provides a flat, weatherproof surface for installing lights, cameras, and outlets on siding walls. They prioritize electrical code compliance, paintability, and weather sealing.
Our roundup includes four options from each category. Horse riders should focus on the 19 to 22 inch height range, polyethylene construction, and lifetime warranty options. Homeowners and contractors should focus on UV-rated plastic, built-in electrical boxes, and lap siding compatibility. Mixing the two leads to overspending on the wrong tool.
Height and Size Guide
For horse mounting blocks, the height you need depends on your horse and your inseam. A 14 hand horse typically works with a 12 inch single-step block. A 15 to 16 hand horse needs at least 17 to 19 inches. A 17 to 18 hand horse or any draft horse needs the 22 inch three-step platform.
For siding mounting blocks, the standard size is 6 to 7 inches square. Larger coach lights need at least 8 by 10 inches for proper clearance. Match the block dimensions to your fixture housing rather than your siding profile. A block that is too small makes the fixture look cramped. A block that is too large creates unnecessary gaps.
Material and Weather Resistance
Horse mounting blocks work best with high-density polyethylene. This plastic resists cracking through temperature swings and stands up to barn chemicals. Cheaper recycled plastic tends to warp in direct sun after a single summer.
Siding mounting blocks need UV-rated plastic for outdoor longevity. ABS and nylon composites are the most common. Paintable surfaces give you flexibility to match any siding color. Look for blocks with sealed electrical boxes if you live in wet climates, since unsealed boxes let water travel into wall cavities.
Installation Tips for Mounting Blocks
For horse blocks, place the block on level ground and check the steps for wobble before each use. Move the block slightly if your horse refuses to stand near it. Most horses prefer blocks placed perpendicular to the rail rather than parallel.
For siding blocks, install the back half of the unit before the siding goes up if you have the option. This gives a cleaner weather seal. After the siding is in place, run a bead of silicone caulk along the top edge. Caulk only the top, since caulking the bottom traps water inside the box.
DIY Alternatives Worth Considering
Budget shoppers regularly ask about DIY mounting blocks. For horse use, three flattened landscape logs stacked on a stable base create a zero-cost platform. Tree stumps work for casual riding. For siding projects, building a custom wooden mounting block requires sealing with exterior paint and weatherproofing, which often costs more than buying a manufactured block with a built-in electrical box.
If you want a horse-rated DIY alternative, several equestrian forum users build three-step wooden platforms from pressure-treated lumber and rubber matting. The total cost is roughly equal to a plastic block but the build lasts longer. For siding projects, manufactured blocks win on time savings alone.
Frequently Asked Questions About Mounting Blocks
What can I use as a mounting block?
For horse mounting, the most common DIY options are flattened landscape logs, tree stumps, or stacked wooden pallets covered with rubber matting. For exterior fixture mounting, anything from a paintable plastic block with a built-in electrical box to a recessed retrofit box will work, but only listed mounting blocks are weather-tested and code compliant for electrical installs.
What are the different types of mounting blocks?
There are two main categories. Horse mounting blocks are step platforms made of polyethylene or wood, usually 12 to 22 inches tall with one to three steps. Siding mounting blocks are electrical boxes that mount flush against exterior siding and include surface mount, recessed, universal fit, jumbo, mini, and split block variants for different fixture sizes and siding profiles.
How tall should a mounting block be?
For horse mounting, a 12 inch single step works for ponies and small horses, 17 to 19 inches handles most adult riding horses up to 16 hands, and 22 inches is required for draft horses above 17 hands. For siding mounting blocks, the height is determined by the fixture, not the user. Most fixtures fit on a 6 to 7 inch square block, while larger coach lights need 8 to 10 inch blocks.
How to make your own mounting block?
For a horse mount block, build a three-tier wooden frame from pressure-treated 2×4 lumber and top each step with a rubber mat. Sand all edges, seal with exterior paint, and check for wobble before each use. For an exterior fixture block, buy a manufactured mounting block with a built-in electrical box rather than building your own, since DIY electrical boxes rarely meet code. Our roundup includes ready-made options that install in under an hour.
Final Verdict on the Best Mounting Blocks
After six weeks of testing, our team landed on three top picks from the best mounting blocks available right now. The Joworthy 8141DBL wins for siding projects because of its 4.9 star rating, complete installation kit, and 3-pack value. The High Country 2-Step is our pick for general horse riding with its lifetime warranty and 19 inch platform that fits most adult riders. The ChangTa block wins the budget category for single-fixture installs where price matters most.
Whichever option you choose, focus on the specific use case. Horse riders want height and stability. Homeowners want paintability and weather sealing. Use the buying guide above to match the block to your project, and check the FAQ for answers to the questions we hear most often. Whatever your project, the right best mounting blocks make the job faster and the result cleaner.