Metal Siding
Metal siding encompasses a variety of exterior cladding products made from steel, aluminum, zinc, or copper, offering exceptional durability, fire resistance, and design versatility for both residential and commercial applications.
Composition
Metal alloy with specific composition for construction applications
Properties
Thickness
24-29 gauge (steel), 0.019"-0.032" (aluminum)
Varies by product type and application, with heavier gauges offering greater durability and structural performance.
Weight
0.7-3.0 lbs/ft²
Varies significantly by material and profile, with steel being heavier than aluminum and thicker gauges adding weight.
Thermal Expansion
Moderate to High
Aluminum expands and contracts more than steel (approximately twice as much), requiring proper installation details to accommodate movement.
Fire Resistance
Class A (ASTM E84)
Non-combustible material that won't contribute to flame spread, though some coating systems may affect overall fire performance.
Wind Resistance
110-160+ mph
When properly installed, can withstand extreme wind conditions, making it suitable for hurricane and high-wind zones.
Corrosion Resistance
Varies by material and coating
Aluminum offers excellent natural corrosion resistance; steel requires protective coatings; zinc and copper develop protective patinas.
Applications
Commercial and Industrial Buildings
Widely used for warehouses, factories, retail centers, and office buildings due to durability, low maintenance, and cost-effectiveness in large-scale applications.
Residential Siding
Available in various profiles for homes, including traditional lap siding, board and batten, and architectural panels for both traditional and contemporary designs.
Agricultural Structures
Common for barns, equipment storage, and other farm buildings where durability, weather resistance, and low maintenance are priorities.
Architectural Facades
Used in modern and contemporary architecture as feature walls, accent panels, and complete facade systems, often with custom perforations, finishes, or textures.
Rainscreen Systems
Incorporated into ventilated rainscreen assemblies that provide enhanced moisture management and thermal performance for high-performance building envelopes.
Roofing-Wall Integration
Often used in conjunction with metal roofing in systems where the same material continues from roof to wall for aesthetic continuity and simplified detailing.
Advantages
- Exceptional durability with lifespans of 40-70+ years depending on material and environment
- Low maintenance requirements with no need for regular repainting or sealing
- Non-combustible and highly fire resistant
- Excellent weather resistance including wind, rain, snow, and UV exposure
- Resistant to insects, rot, and mold
- Lightweight (especially aluminum) reducing structural requirements
- Available in numerous profiles, colors, and finishes
- Can be recycled at end of life with high material recovery
- Factory finishes with warranties up to 40+ years
Limitations
- Higher initial cost than vinyl and some fiber cement options
- Susceptible to denting from impacts (especially aluminum and thinner gauges)
- Potential for oil canning (waviness in flat panels) due to thermal expansion
- Steel requires proper coating systems to prevent corrosion
- Can create noise during rain or hail if not properly installed
- Limited insulation value unless part of an insulated panel system
- Installation requires specialized knowledge and techniques
- Some finishes may chalk or fade over time, particularly in intense sun exposure
- Higher embodied energy than wood-based products
Sustainability Profile
Metals are highly recyclable with minimal loss of properties, contributing to circular economy principles. Energy-intensive production is offset by long lifespan and recyclability.