What is Steel Siding?
Steel siding is a durable, low maintenance residential siding option. It is made from steel that is coated with a layer of zinc to protect against rust and corrosion. Available in a variety of colors and styles, including panels, shingles, and vertical boards, it is aesthetically appealing on many types and styles of home. It can also be made to look like other types of siding, such as wood or stone.
How Much Does Steel Siding Cost?
The cost of steel siding can vary depending on a number of factors, including the style you choose, the size of your home, and the cost of labor in your area. On average, it can cost anywhere from $3 to $8 per square foot installed. The only way to get an exact estimate for the style and type of siding you want is to get a quote from a contractor. You can also try out our cost calculator below.
Pros and Cons of Steel Siding
Steel siding is popular and highly durable. But how do you know if it’s right for you? Here are the pros and cons.
-
Pros
- Weather-resistant
- Low-maintenance
- Pest-resistant
-
Cons
- Higher cost
- Trickier installation
- Can dent and scratch
Pros of Steel Siding
There is a reason steel siding continues to gain in popularity, and that reason can best be summed up as “durability.” Here are the benefits you should consider:
- Lifespan: Steel siding lasts 40 years or more. So once you’ve added steel siding, you will likely never have to replace it.
- Stands up to extreme temps: Steel does well in both freezing and sweltering temperatures.
- Fire-resistant: If you live in a wildfire prone region, steel siding should be on your short list of options. It is very highly rated against fires.
- Very low-maintenance: It is resistant to rot and mildew. Also, it comes in several colors, so you will also not ever have to touch-up paint.
- Pest-resistant: Steel is hard to get through, making it resistant to everything from termites to mice.
Cons of Steel Siding
There are a few downsides to consider:
- Noise: Steel can change your home acoustics. It is more prone to noise from rain or hail than other types of siding.
- Dents and scratches: Though it’s durable, it can dent if hit by hard objects, though it would need to be hit with quite a bit of force. It can also scratch easily.
- Expansion and contraction: Steel can expand and contract due to temperature changes. So while it tolerates temperature extremes on either end, it may not be right for a region that sees both high highs and low lows. Over time, continuous expansion and contraction can cause the panels to buckle or warp.
- Cost: Steel can be more expensive than many other types of siding. Though it can closely mimic the look of vinyl, for instance, it cannot match vinyl’s lower price point.
- Installation: Due to the weight of the product, it will require multiple professionals to install it correctly.
- Not wind-resistant: Though it stands up to many kinds of weather, high winds is not one of them. Strong wind forces will eventually increase the holes around the fasteners holding the siding in place. Not only does this make the siding installation weaker, but it also allows moisture in and can lead to corrosion and early failure in serious instances. There are better options to use by the ocean, on mountains, and other locations that experience heavy gusts of wind regularly.
What Region Is Steel Siding Best For?
This siding’s durability makes it suitable for many regions and climates. You should especially consider it if:
- You live in a region with extreme temperatures. Steel is highly durable in both heat and cold.
- You live in a region prone to wildfires. As mentioned above, this type of siding is fire-resistant.
- You get a lot of direct sunlight. Steel is resistant to the damaging effects of UV rays.
What Is the Difference Between Steel and Aluminum Siding?
Steel and aluminum siding are similar in many ways, especially in regards to their ability to withstand fire and other extreme weather. However, there are a few key differences to be aware of.
Aluminum is lighter weight, so it is easier to install. However, it is also less durable, and can be dinged, dented, and scratched more easily than steel. Aluminum siding also costs more than steel. Aluminum does not rust/corrode, so if you live near the coast, this may be the best choice for you.
Steel is more able to withstand dents and dings, though it also scratches easily. It is also much heavier than aluminum. This means it needs professional installation due to the heavier weight. Steel can be coated so that it does not rust/corrode, but it will need to occasionally be re-coated, especially if you live in a coastal climate.
Types of Steel Siding
If you are considering steel siding for your home, one of the first things you will need to decide is if you like the look (and potential drawbacks) of seams or want it to be seamless.
Standing Seam Steel Siding
As you would expect from the name, standing seam siding has a raised seam where the panels connect together. There are a variety of fasteners to choose from, including hidden fasteners that give the siding a more cohesive look. Standing seam siding is typically made off-site and offered in a variety of standard lengths and widths. With proper installation, this is an extremely durable product. However, be aware that any siding with seams potentially leaves a spot for the elements to get through.
Seamless Steel Siding
Seamless steel siding stretches the entire span of the house in one long piece. This is a special product made from steel panels coated with a protective layer of vinyl. Seamless steel siding can be custom cut to your home’s dimensions on-site or off-site for an exact fit. The lack of seams means water, pests, and dirt have no chance of making it inside.
Steel Siding Styles
Steel siding used to look similar to metal roofs back when it was first produced. Now, you can find this durable siding in multiple styles and appearances. Here are a few of the most popular options.
Vinyl-Look Style
If you love the look of vinyl boards but can’t have it due to either HOA restrictions or region- and weather-specific concerns, you can find steel siding that looks like vinyl. It can be installed to look like overlapping boards or installed flat.
Wood-Grain Style
Wood siding is attractive, but high-maintenance. It also does not stand up well to the elements. Steel siding can be made with a wood-grain appearance to give you the appearance you love with none of the downsides. Some companies even offer an imitation log siding for the look of a rustic log cabin with the durability of steel.
Board and Batten
Board and batten siding has been around for decades. It is currently enjoying a resurgence among homes in the Modern Farmhouse style. Steel siding is offered in board and batten’s traditional wide, flat panels with eye-catching ribs.
Corrugated
Corrugated siding looks like lots of small ridges or waves. This pattern can be made from steel as well as many other types of metals. Homeowners choose this look for the aesthetic appeal. However, it also has a hidden benefit: the corrugated pattern hides scratches and dings better than flat panels do.
Finding Installers
There are many manufacturers and installers if you are interested in steel siding. Different companies may specialize in a certain style or type of steel siding. So, for example, if you know you want steel siding that looks like logs, you should begin your search there.
If you want us to do the work and research for you, click the button below. Modernize will pair you with up to four steel siding contractors in your area so you get the best price and find a contractor you trust.
Compare top-rated siding pros in your area.
Read real homeowner reviews, explore qualifications, and view promotions. Modernize makes it easy to browse professionals and find one that will be perfect for your project.
