Steel siding has been around for over 100 years, but recent technological advancements have sparked new interest in this versatile and sustainable option.

Not only is it durable and visually appealing, but it is also friendly to the environment compared to traditional siding materials such as vinyl.

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What Is Steel Siding? 

This is a cladding material that’s made from thin sheets of steel.

These sheets are coated with a rust-resistant material to protect against weathering and corrosion.

It presents an outstanding alternative to conventional siding materials like wood and vinyl siding because of its durability, sturdiness, and low maintenance.

Furthermore, it can be painted in a variety of colors to suit the aesthetic of any building.

Steel siding has been around for almost a century. However, it has recently gained popularity because of the innovative improvements that are happening in the field.

How Much Does It Cost To Put Steel Siding On A House?

The average cost of steel siding material for a 1,500-square-foot space is approximately $12,000. 

The labor cost is approximately $1,500, but this greatly depends on your location and the contractor you’re working with. 

From the above estimates, it’s safe to say that it costs around $13,500 in total to install steel siding on a 1,500-square-foot house.

See below to understand how these numbers come about. 

Steel Siding Cost Breakdown

The cost of buying steel siding material is between $4 and $8 per square foot.

So, for a 1,500-square-foot home, you’ll spend between $6,000 and $12,000.

You will also need additional supplies to facilitate the installation process. These include electric metal shears, nails, house wraps, trim, staples, etc.

These extras will cost an added $0.50 to $1 per square foot. 

Labor varies greatly depending on the minimum wage in your region, the contractor you’re working with, and whether the old siding has to be removed and disposed of.

But generally, expect to spend anywhere between $1 and $1.50 per square foot.

Therefore, the labor for a 1,500-square-foot house would range between $1,500 and $2,250.

From the above estimates, the total installation cost can range anywhere between $7,500 and $15,750.

Expense	Cost per Square Foot	Cost per 1,500-Square-Foot House
Steel Siding Material	$4-$8	$6,000-$12,000
Building Supplies	$0.50-$1	$750-$1,500
Labor Costs	$1-$1.50	$1,500-$2,250
Average Total Cost	$5-$10.5	$7,500-$15,750

But again, these are just estimates and are subject to market forces. So, consult a licensed contractor for a more accurate price quote. 

Pro Tip: When hiring labor, it’s important to gather price quotes from multiple contractors and select reasonably priced ones. However, don’t just go for the lowest quote. Instead, review their previous projects and choose a contractor with a good reputation and the necessary skills. Also, it’s recommended to set aside an additional 15% of the above cost to cover any unexpected expenses or price changes. 

Steel Siding Brands

Popular siding brands include: 

EDCO

EDCO is a manufacturer of award-winning steel siding products.

They are a top choice for many homeowners because their steel siding boasts the following features:

• Reflective technology that significantly reduces energy costs
• A long-lasting paint that makes it virtually maintenance-free
• 100% recycled material, perfect for environmentally conscious homeowners
• A lifetime non-prorated limited warranty that covers product defects
• Fade or crack-resistant

Mastic

Mastic, also called Ply Gem, is another excellent brand for people looking for affordable steel siding.

Their products are backed with a 50-year warranty, but unfortunately, many consumers have reported that the company is slow about responding to warranty claims. 

Rollex

Rollex is a reputable brand that has been in the steel siding business for over 40 years.

Their siding is coated with an oven-fused PVC layer to prevent dents and scratches.

They also offer excellent customer service and promptly address any concerns from customers.

Even better, all Rollex products come with a limited lifetime guarantee. 

Who Sells Steel Siding?

If you’re planning to put up steel siding, here are some reputable sellers to consider:

Home Depot

Home Depot is a large home improvement retailer that sells a wide array of products, including steel siding.

They have both physical store locations and online services.

So, you can still order the products if you don’t have the time to go to their physical store. 

Menards

Menards is another reputable home improvement retailer that supplies steel siding.

They often have sales and promotions on their products, making them an excellent choice for those who want to save a few bucks. 

Lowes

Lowes is a reputable home improvement store known for offering reasonable prices and sourcing materials only from premium manufacturers.

In addition, they also sell all the necessary accessories for steel siding, such as fasteners, flashing, and trim, making it convenient for customers to find everything they need under one roof.

Pro Tip: If you’re in the market for steel siding, it is crucial that you conduct thorough research on different sellers in your area. This includes comparing their prices, customer service, and reviews. This way, you can make an informed decision that best suits your project requirements and budget. If unsure where to start, consider contacting a reputable contractor in your area for guidance. They will assist you in sourcing the best materials for your project.

Benefits Of Steel Siding

Below are some benefits of steel siding:

Resistant to Pests and Insects

Unlike most traditional options, such as wood siding, this siding doesn’t attract pests such as carpenter ants and termites, which can cause damage to the siding. 

Durability

Durability should be a top consideration when looking for the best siding on the market.

Steel siding offers exceptional durability and can withstand harsh weather conditions such as high winds, heavy rain, UV rays, and even hail.

Additionally, steel siding can last for decades with proper care and maintenance. 

Fire Resistant

Steel siding is an excellent option for those who want to minimize risk, thanks to its fire resistance.

Unlike other siding materials, steel siding does not melt or fuel a fire, providing peace of mind in an emergency.

Many steel siding products feature a Class A fire resistance rating, emphasizing safety benefits.

Low Maintenance

Steel siding is virtually maintenance-free and doesn’t require painting or staining.

However, low-quality options may fade over time, and will need to be repainted.

So, buy high-quality materials from brands such as EDCO and Rollex. 

Energy-Efficient

Steel siding is coated with cool-paint technology that reflects the sun’s heat away from your home, helping to keep your home cooler in the summer and reducing energy costs.

Also, it conducts heat faster, making it great for cold climates.

Variety of Colors and Styles

Despite popular belief, steel siding is available in a wide range of color options to enhance your home’s curb appeal.

The availability of different colors and styles of steel siding allows for easy coordination with any architectural style or design. 

Environmentally Friendly

Steel siding is considered eco-friendly because it is made of recycled materials.

Even after its use, the scraps can be collected and reused in manufacturing. 

Problems With Steel Siding

Some downsides of steel siding include:

Noise

If noise is a concern for you, consider skipping this siding option.

Steel siding is known for producing a lot of noise even with slight impact, which can irritate some individuals.

Complex Installation 

Steel siding isn’t an excellent choice for DIYers because it’s heavy and the installation is complex.

It’s quite likely you’ll be forced to hire an experienced professional to complete the project. 

High Upfront Costs 

Because the products are heavy and require complex installation, they tend to have a high initial cost compared to options such as vinyl siding.

However, it’s virtually maintenance-free and provides energy savings, making it a worthy investment. 

What Kind Of Paint To Use On Steel Siding

When painting steel siding, it’s crucial to use paint specifically designed for metal surfaces.

Overall, the best type of paint to use on steel siding is 100% acrylic paint.

It adheres well to metal surfaces while providing long-lasting durability.

Pro Tip: Please check the manufacturer’s instructions and recommendations for the type of paint that can be used on the steel siding you purchase. You can also consult a paint expert if you have any doubts.

What Is The Best Way To Cut Steel Siding?

When cutting steel siding, first ensure you note the direction of the lap of the steel panels.

Place the panels with the pre-painted side facing down to prevent scratches on the painted surface.

Also, consult the manufacturer’s manual for specific cutting instructions.

You can use tin snips for cutting the sheets.

1. Start by marking a line on the sheet and cut through the top lock first, continuing towards the bottom.
2. Once done, snap the panel along the butt edge to separate them.

You can use aviation shears or a utility knife instead of tin snips. 

Pro Tip: Regardless of the method chosen for cutting steel siding, it is important to wear proper eye and ear protection to prevent accidents. If you are uncertain about the process, it’s best to leave it to the professionals. 

How Long Does Steel Siding Last?

Steel siding can last more than 50 years if properly installed and cared for. 

Steel Siding Warranty

Steel siding warranties vary depending on the manufacturer and the specific product.

Some manufacturers offer limited pro-rated lifetime warranties, which cover the product against workmanship and product defects provided the original homeowner owns the property.

Others offer a limited 25- to 30-year warranty, which covers the product for a limited number of years.

Some warranties may also be limited to certain types of damage, such as chalking and fading and may not cover damage caused by improper installation or owner’s negligence. 

Therefore, reading and understanding the terms of the warranty is crucial before purchasing the product.

Check what’s covered, how long the warranty lasts, and the process for making a claim. 

Steel Siding vs Vinyl Siding

Vinyl siding is another popular choice for people looking for siding for their home exterior.

It is perfect for homeowners on a tight budget and looking for siding that’s easy to install.

While it’s low maintenance and available in various colors and styles, it can easily be damaged by weather and hail.

It can also fade and warp over time. 

On the other hand, steel siding is an excellent choice for those who want a siding that is durable, resistant to cracking and fading, and can withstand fire and extreme weather conditions.

However, it can be more expensive upfront and may require professional installation.

Steel Siding vs Aluminum Siding

Steel siding and aluminum siding share some benefits, including:

• Insect resistance
• Fire resistance
• Low maintenance

Some downsides of aluminum siding include:

• Less durability 
• More susceptible to dents 
• Fading 

Steel Siding vs Fiber Cement

Fiber cement siding is another popular choice for those looking for a high-quality exterior for their homes.

It’s made from a mixture of cement, sand, and cellulose fibers.

It’s durable and low-maintenance and can last for decades.

It is resistant to fire, rotting, warping, and insect damage.

Fiber cement siding can mimic wood’s aesthetic and offer a higher impact resistance than steel siding.

However, fiber cement siding is a bit heavy and difficult to install, and it can crack or warp if not installed properly.

As you can see, it offers the same benefits as steel siding.

However, fiber cement siding doesn’t make noise and is extremely energy efficient, so you’re likely to have more energy savings if you choose it over steel siding.

On the downside, it’s more expensive than steel siding, so it might not cater to those on a tight budget. 

Is Steel Siding Better Than Aluminum?

On a wide spectrum, steel siding is better than aluminum siding.

Aluminum is less durable, dents easily, and requires more maintenance such as painting and staining.

Lastly, aluminum siding is not as accessible as steel siding. As a result, it might delay your project. 

Is Steel Siding Cheaper Than Vinyl?

No.

Typically, metal siding is more expensive than vinyl siding in terms of the upfront cost.

Steel’s higher cost is because it’s made of high-quality materials, and the installation costs tend to be higher.

But, with the low maintenance and long-lasting features, many homeowners find that the one-time upfront cost is worth it in the long run

Is It Easy To Match Steel Siding Later On?

Yes, it is easy to match steel siding later on.

If you’re having trouble with this process, ask your contractor for matching options.

What Color Steel Siding Are Available, And Do They Fade?

Steel siding comes in many colors, so you’ll find an option matching your home’s general aesthetic.

These colors range from dark, light, neutral, warm, cool, and much more.

If you’re struggling to decide the best color combination for your home, then ask your contractor to give you a few recommendations.

Many steel siding products don’t fade because they are painted with high-quality paint.

Is Steel Siding Environmentally Friendly?

Yes, steel siding is environmentally friendly.

The materials used in the manufacturing process can be recycled after their use, rather than filling up landfills.

Also, it doesn’t contain any harmful materials such as staining which causes harm to the environment.

Did you know? Wood siding that’s been stained, sealed, or painted will likely end up in a landfill. 

Does Steel Siding Stand Up To High Winds And Hail?

Steel siding stands up to high winds and hail, unlike other options like vinyl and wood siding.

It has a high impact resistance and will guarantee that your house is protected.

In fact, contractors recommend steel siding for people who live in hail-prone areas. 

Will Steel Siding Rust?

No, high-quality steel siding will not rust.

It is protected against rust and corrosion through a process called galvanization.

This process includes covering the steel material with a zinc coating, making it highly resistant to corrosion and wear and tear.

This durability and resilience are similar to that of airplanes, ocean liners, and military ships.

How Does Steel Siding Help My Home’s Energy Efficiency?

Steel is an energy-efficient option for homeowners.

It’s coated with special paint to reflect the sun away from home.

Some options are also layered with thick insulation to provide extra protection against air penetration.

These features work together to reduce the workload on your HVAC system, resulting in significant energy savings.

How Much Maintenance Does Steel Siding Require?

Steel requires far less maintenance compared to other siding options like wood.

Like in the case of wood, the siding can peel, rot, and warp, a problem that’s not present in steel siding.

However, you must ensure you go for a high-quality product because it will greatly reduce your maintenance requirements.

All you have to do is wash off dust and debris to maintain the product’s fresh look. 

If you choose a low-quality product, it might fade over time and become chalky.

To curb the problem, you’ll have to protect the finish by painting it.

Is Steel Siding A Good Choice?

Overall, steel siding is an excellent choice for people looking for exterior cladding that’s durable, low maintenance, and withstands harsh elements such as wind, heavy rains, and UV rays.

However, you must consider that steel siding can dent from high impact.

It can also be affected by rust if it’s not properly coated.

Additionally, it may lack the same aesthetic appeal as brick or natural wood, which can be a significant issue for certain neighborhoods or building types.

There’s no single answer to whether steel siding is a good choice for a homeowner because the truth is that there are many variables to consider.

Before making the final choice, it would help if you weighed the pros and cons of this siding against other options, such as fiber cement, vinyl, and aluminum. 

Conclusion

Steel siding is an excellent option for homeowners who want a durable and low-maintenance exterior.

It’s also a good alternative to traditional siding options like wood which are prone to rot, cracking, warping, and insect activity.

Furthermore, it’s great for the environment because it can be recycled after use. 

However, whether this siding is right for you depends on your budget and project requirements.