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Siding

How Much Does Aluminum Siding Cost?

Average Cost:

$15,000 - $25,000

The national average cost to replace aluminum siding typically ranges between $15,000 and $25,000 for a 2,500-square-foot home, depending on factors such as the style of the home, local labor rates, and additional material requirements. The cost per square foot generally falls between $5.60 and $10.30.

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Updated: Nov 15, 2024 · Written By: Emily Bloch · Reviewed By: Kat Gayol

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  1. Benefits of Aluminum Siding
  2. Aluminum Siding Repairs
  3. How Cost-Effective is Aluminum Siding?
  4. Installing Aluminum Siding
  5. Maintenance Tips
Aluminum siding offers a fresh look and long-lasting protection from the elements. It doesn’t just come in metallic silver planks. You can find it in various colors and styles that mimic expensive wood or other high-quality siding types at a lower cost.

Modern aluminum siding resists dents, insects, and fire. In wildfire-prone areas, it may even lower your homeowner’s insurance premiums. Aluminum siding requires minimal maintenance and can last 40+ years with proper care. It is also the second most affordable siding option to install.

Benefits of Aluminum Siding

In addition to the benefits mentioned above, aluminum siding provides additional noteworthy benefits. Whether or not you have considered aluminum siding for your home, be sure to take note of the following benefits:

aluminum siding installation

Lightweight
Aluminum’s light weight makes for a quick and low-cost installation.
Can be painted
Aluminum can be painted in a wide variety of colors to fit the look you desire for your home. Choose colors ranging from bright reds and yellows to neutral beiges and grays. The color of your siding is also baked on; this means it will not need frequent repainting, like with wood siding.
Eco-friendly
If you are looking to reduce your environmental impact, most aluminum siding contains up to 30 percent of recycled materials. To put that in perspective, covering a 2,000-square-foot home in wood siding would take the equivalent of 40 to 50 trees, or one whole acre. In contrast, covering the same size home in aluminum siding is the equivalent of salvaging the metal from 6 scrapped cars.
Cost-effective
Aluminum can mimic highly sought-after siding materials, such as vinyl, natural wood, and fiber cement, but at a much lower cost.

Aluminum Siding Repairs

Aluminum siding can last 40 years with proper maintenance. However, weather conditions can cause wear and tear depending on your location. Common reasons for aluminum siding repair include:

  • Dents and scratches
  • Corrosion
  • Fading paint
  • Holes and gaps

Though modern aluminum siding is more dent-resistant, storms or hail can still cause dents in certain areas. Severely dented panels are easily replaced. Scratches and fading paint can be fixed with quality, color-matched paint.

If the damage is severe, your contractor may recommend replacing the siding. While this costs more, it can increase your home’s resale value and provide a return on investment.

How Cost-Effective is Aluminum Siding?

Aluminum siding is one of the most cost-effective siding materials on the market, at just $3.30 to $6 per square foot on average. You can expect it to last at least 40 years, which makes the investment well worth it.

Because of the lightweight panels, an aluminum siding installation is relatively simple. Replacing your home siding with aluminum can yield about a 77% rate of return on investment, depending on the total cost and your home’s ultimate resale value.

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Installing Aluminum Siding

Aluminum siding comes in various panel sizes and horizontal or vertical styles. Discuss your desired look with your contractor, who can recommend styles, textures, and panel types that fit your preferences and budget.

This siding typically includes all necessary parts for installation, making the process quick and simple. This can help reduce installation and labor costs.

How to Install Aluminum Siding

Modernize recommends hiring a professional siding contractor for aluminum siding installation. However, if you’re an experienced DIYer, follow these steps for efficient installation:

  • Use aluminum nails only: Use aluminum nails with 1/8-inch shanks and heads at least 5/16 inch in diameter. They should penetrate the backing by at least 3/4 inch.
  • Remove gutters: Remove gutters, downspouts, and light fixtures before replacing siding. You’ll need to reinstall the gutters or hire a contractor.
  • Use a smooth backing surface: Ensure a smooth surface for the siding by using 3/8-inch foam board insulation as a backing option.
  • Nail down loose boards and remove damaged ones: If installing over existing siding, secure loose boards and replace any rotten ones to prevent further damage.
  • Recaulk the siding: If repairing or installing partial siding, remove loose caulk and recaulk around windows and doors to prevent moisture.
  • Seal cracks: Seal all cracks to make the house airtight and help lower energy bills.

Hiring a Siding Professional

If you are not experienced in installing home siding, we highly suggest finding a reliable home siding installer near you to ensure you are handling the project properly. A contractor will also help you get the project done for the best price, recommend types and styles of siding, and prep your home for the best energy efficiency. Using a professional will also prevent future repairs or replacements down the road due to improper installation. Talk to a Modernize contractor today and compare quotes from up to four local installers.

Maintenance Tips

While aluminum siding can last up to 40 years, it probably will not stay great-looking without regular siding maintenance. It may be helpful to think about siding care in the same manner that you would care for your car. They are both smooth metal surfaces that need to be covered with paint, cleaned, and polished regularly to maintain their sheen.

To keep your aluminum siding looking great:

  • Pressure wash every 6 to 12 months: This removes oxidized paint, dirt, dust, and mold. Fill the pressure washer’s plastic dip tube with laundry detergent to keep the siding shiny. Use bleach or eco-friendly options like vinegar or borax with a soft brush on mildew spots. Rinse thoroughly before and after cleaning to avoid drying marks.
  • Never scrape or sand: This type of siding is prone to scratching, so be careful never to scrape it. If you need to sand it, use 400-600 grit sandpaper.
  • Repaint every 5 years: For a quick color touchup and repair, use color-matched spray paint.
  • Use a primer for unpainted siding: If your siding is bare (no colored enamel baked on), use a zinc oxide primer to keep your siding looking its best.
  • Use metal-specific fillers: If the need arises to patch an aluminum surface, use a filler that is specifically made for metal, like Bondo for cars.

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