Metal Siding Now a Top Choice for Modern Homes & Facilities

Metal siding is becoming increasingly popular as a home exterior option. Durable, cost-effective, and visually appealing, it is a great way to update the look of any home without breaking the bank. In this blog post, we’ll explore why metal siding is such a sought-after choice for modern homes and facilities.

Metal siding’s popularity by the numbers

Historically, metal has proven popular as a roofing option and a choice for durable window frames. As external cladding, however, it has lagged far behind vinyl siding, stucco, brick, wood, and other traditional residential choices.

That may be changing.

Metal siding is becoming increasingly popular among homeowners, contractors, and businesses alike. According to Metal Construction News‘ 41st Annual Contractor Survey, conducted in 2021, researchers found that metal construction increased by 12.9% in 2021. In particular, metal wall panels went up by 2.5% and light-gauge steel framing increased by 9.5% for exteriors. This trend may continue in the coming years as more people become aware of the benefits.

The popularity of metal siding also extends to commercial applications. Currently, about ⅓ of commercial buildings feature metal roofs. The percentage increases in coastal areas where buildings need strong, corrosion-resistant, and green-energy efficient construction. As more businesses look for cost-effective solutions to their building needs, metal siding’s affordability and longevity make it an attractive option.

In addition to its widespread use in residential, commercial, and industrial applications, metal siding is also used in other areas such as agriculture and transportation. In fact, it is often used in agricultural buildings due to its low maintenance requirements and durability.

In 2021, the Metal Construction Association published the results of a study in Metal Construction News. The results projected that metal accounted for 87% of total roof area in the agriculture sector. The study also reported that commercial and agriculture shipments accounted for 69% of the metal wall market and that the agriculture sector was responsible for the highest percentage of metal wall use at 87%.

Many companies are also turning to metal siding for their trucking fleets, citing its lightweight design and corrosion resistance as advantages over other materials.

What is metal siding?

Metal siding is an exterior wall covering material made from metal, which protects a home or building and enhances its look. As a building product, metal siding is durable, long-lasting, and resistant to many environmental factors. It can be used on residential homes, commercial buildings, and industrial structures.

Often, it is installed in panels that fit together like a jigsaw puzzle. The panels are often held in place with fasteners and may be overlapped for a seamless look.

History of Metal Siding

Builders first used aluminum when constructing the Washington Monument in 1884. At that time, the metal was too expensive to be widely used. In 1903, steel joined aluminum as a siding option. It wasn’t until 1937, though, that aluminum became widely used in construction, and only became popular in the post World War II era.

Although Sears marketed steel siding as early as the 1920s, it mainly remained homeowners’ choice for roofs not walls. Besides being incredibly long lasting and environmentally friendly, steel roofs offered a distinctive aesthetic. Buyers could choose from an amazing array of roof metal colors.

With the introduction of seamless steel siding, though, the metal became a more popular choice. Today, it offers a pest-repellent, fire-resistant, and easy-to-care-for siding option that can last 50 years or more.

What are the different kinds of metal siding?

Metal siding comes in a variety of shapes, sizes, textures, and colors. Common materials used in metal siding include steel, aluminum, copper, zinc, and tin. Steel and aluminum are the most commonly used metals because they are lightweight, easy to install, and relatively affordable. Other metals such as copper and zinc can add a unique look to a home or building while providing superior protection.

When choosing siding, it’s important to consider the specific needs of your project. Each material has its own unique benefits and drawbacks, so you’ll want to ensure that you select a material that will work best for your specific application. For example, aluminum siding is typically more affordable than steel, but it’s not as strong and won’t last as long. Steel siding is much more durable, but it also can be more expensive.

Aluminum siding comes in a range of different finishes, such as smooth, textured, embossed, and painted. Steel siding is also available in various finishes, including embossed and painted. Both materials can be installed horizontally or vertically, depending on the look you’re trying to achieve.

Copper and zinc are popular in high-end spaces, while stainless steel siding provides superior corrosion resistance and longevity. Adding a layer of galvalume, a coating composed of zinc, aluminum, and silicon, can strengthen other metals’ corrosion resistance properties.

Virtually all metal siding is recyclable, making it one of the greenest construction choices available.

What industries is metal siding used in?

Metal siding is a versatile material that is suitable for a wide range of uses. Here are just some of the industries where it is commonly used:

• Residential Homes: One of the most common applications of metal siding is in residential homes. This durable material can provide an attractive look to any home, while also providing superior protection from the elements. It is available in a variety of colors and styles to match nearly any architectural style.
• Commercial Buildings: Metal siding is also widely used on commercial buildings, such as retail stores and offices. It is an economical option that can provide a sleek and professional look to any building, while also protecting it from extreme weather conditions.
• Industrial Facilities: Metal siding has long been a popular choice for industrial facilities, such as factories and warehouses. It is a cost-effective solution that can provide superior protection against weather and vandalism.
• Agricultural Buildings: Increasingly popular in agricultural buildings, such as barns, sheds, and greenhouses, metal siding can provide superior protection from the elements.

Overall, metal siding is an incredibly versatile material that can be used in a wide range of applications. It may not, however, be the right option for every construction project.

Three pros and three cons of using metal siding

Pros

• Durability: Incredibly durable and long-lasting, metal siding is a great option for areas where harsh weather conditions can wear down other materials. It is also resistant to pests, rot, and fire.
• Low Maintenance: It requires minimal maintenance compared to other materials. It rarely needs to be repainted and is easy to clean with simple soap and water.
• Variety: Available in a variety of colors and textures, metal siding makes it possible to create custom looks for any home.

Cons

• Cost: Metal siding, especially copper, can be expensive when compared to vinyl or wood, but steel and aluminum are more affordable alternatives.
• Installation: Installing metal siding requires training and expertise, but so do most materials
• Heat Conductivity: Previously, the heat conductivity of metal siding would’ve been considered a con, meaning that it could get hot during the summer months, but most paint companies are now supplying cool technology paint systems that help to dissipate heat – the lighter the color, the better the performance.

What businesses should look for in metal siding suppliers?

When selecting the right supplier, businesses should consider a few important factors.

First, select a supplier that offers quality products. Metal siding requires expertise and experience to be properly installed, and there are a variety of products available in the market. It’s important to make sure that your supplier is knowledgeable in the types of metal siding you are interested in and can provide reliable guidance throughout the process.

Second, look for suppliers that offer competitive prices. Metal siding may seem expensive, but some suppliers offer competitive pricing that can help you get the most value for your money.

Finally, ensure that your supplier has a good reputation in the industry. Look for reviews from previous customers or ask for referrals from colleagues to get an idea of how reliable the supplier is. It is also worth considering the reputation of the manufacturer of the siding product to make sure you are getting a quality product that will last.

By taking the time to carefully select a metal siding supplier, businesses can be confident their investment will pay off in the long run.