The Primary Types of Metal Siding

Long used on agricultural and industrial buildings, metal siding is becoming more and more popular in home and commercial applications. With super features like low maintenance, durability, and beauty – metal siding adds terrific style to any home or building. And because metal siding is so long-lasting, it’s a cost-effective siding choice that can pay for itself over time.

With a few exceptions, metal siding is mainly available in aluminum or steel. Steel siding is stronger and sturdier than aluminum siding, making it more resistant to dents and scratches. Aluminum siding is easier to install because it’s a lighter product and therefore a good choice for DIY installation. Because steel siding is heavy, it’s generally recommended that a professional contractor install it. Steel siding has more recycled content than aluminum but both are 100% recyclable. While some of the primary types of siding are only available in steel, other types are available in both materials.

Corrugated Metal Siding

Long used to side or roof industrial and agricultural buildings, corrugated metal siding is an iconic look that is more and more commonly put to residential use. Corrugated steel siding is used where durability and strength are important – the corrugations increase tensile strength – making it resistant to weight loads and impact. Corrugated aluminum siding doesn’t possess the strength of steel so is more applicable to lighter use. Corrugated metal siding, particularly steel, can withstand rain, hail, and wind and is buckle, wrap, and dent resistant. Both corrugated steel and aluminum have excellent water-shedding properties due to the corrugated grooves. Lasting up to 50 years or more, as it ages, corrugated metal siding develops patina and character, and can be fully recycled at the end of its lifespan. Corrugated metal siding is a great choice for both rustic and modern applications.

Seamless Steel Siding

Crafted from heavy-duty galvanized steel, seamless steel siding comes in a variety of textures, profiles, and colors. It usually has a weather-sealed coating that adds additional protection from extreme weather conditions like hail and wind, and it withstands intense temperature changes. This siding is called “seamless” because each siding section is custom-fit and covers the entire length of your building without seams, joints, or splices. The seamless feature adds extra protection from insects like termites and ants and moisture that causes mildew and mold. Because it’s more difficult to install than other metal sidings, it’s recommended that a professional does the work. The exceptional lifespan and durability of seamless steel siding make it a long-lasting investment.

Standing Seam Metal Siding

Requiring very little maintenance, standing seam siding has clean lines that lend a contemporary look to your home. The siding has a raised seam to connect panels together, creating an interlocking system that assures weather tightness. Because of the interlocking system, standing seam siding should only be installed vertically, never horizontally. Two of the three standing seam panel types are applicable for siding: snap lock and nail strip. Mechanically seamed panels are most often used as roofing and aren’t as commonly used as siding, possibly because the cost is higher than most other types of metal siding. 

Galvanized Steel Siding

Attractive and very strong, galvanized steel siding is insect and mildew resistant, plus it doesn’t warp or chip. Galvanized steel siding is popular because it never needs caulking or painting, making it a very low-maintenance choice. Each panel has a sealed, weather-resistant finish, giving galvanized steel siding great resistance to snow, sleet, rain, hail, and temperature extremes. 

Box Rib Metal Siding

Bold and strong, box rib metal siding has a box-like pattern that is available in various profiles. One of the most common profiles is a 4 ⅛”  raised “box” with a 1 ⅜” space between each “box”. The profile creates deep shadows that impart an eye-catching look – enhancing the architectural lines of a building. Box rib metal siding can be used to clad an entire building or simply to accent a wall or architectural feature. This distinct siding comes in a variety of colors, textures, and profiles, and installation is easy because the panels are attached with exposed fasteners. 

Board and Batten Metal Siding

Board and batten metal siding enhances traditional architecture, such as craftsman or farmhouse styles, with the added benefit of being low-maintenance. The metal panel has a flat board with raised batten, just as you would see in wood, however, this siding provides excellent fire and insect resistance. Being 100% recyclable, any of the waste associated with the installation can easily go back into future metal products. Various finishes and colors are available and some manufacturers even offer custom color matching. The panels are attached with hidden fasteners that allow for clean, uninterrupted lines. 

Flat Metal Siding

The panels in flat metal siding create flush clean lines and a crisp modern look. Available in V Groove for a wood plank appearance, shiplap in a variety of widths and reveals, and custom flat options, the panels can be mixed and matched for unique one-of-a-kind looks. Adding to the sleek modern look, flat metal siding is attached with hidden fasteners and can be installed vertically or horizontally. 

All-Purpose Metal Siding

Because it’s so easy to install, those who enjoy DIY projects are attracted to all-purpose metal siding. It’s long-lasting, durable, and can withstand harsh weather. Generally, the panels come in three-foot widths that can be adapted to any building’s design. A variety of finishes are available and the exposed fastener design adds to ease of installation. All-purpose metal siding is a great choice for those who want to tackle the job of installing metal siding on their own.

Copper Siding Panels

For a step above the typical steel or aluminum, copper panels add a distinct and unique flair to any home or building. The panels are especially effective when used to highlight an architectural feature, accent an entrance, or capture morning or afternoon light. Copper panels are long-lasting and durable but are malleable and require expert installation.

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If you’re ready to install metal siding, CLAD Siding connects you quickly and easily with a licensed and insured professional metal siding contractor near you. Ask for a speedy quote now!