Home construction and renovation is often an expensive and frustrating experience. An often overlooked, but critically important part of a home is siding. For those interested in selecting the most durable siding, metal is a great option. On the other hand, metal siding tends to cost slightly more than alternatives.
Selecting the right siding for your home is essential. More and more home buyers are moving towards metal siding due to its durability. While metal siding may not be the right choice for everyone, it is a great option that deserves consideration.
Is Metal Siding Expensive?
Relative to other options, metal siding usually costs more upfront but is significantly more durable than other options. Metal siding is weather and pest resistant and requires very little maintenance, helping you to save on repair costs. However, aluminum and copper will oxidize over time, which may require maintenance. The prices for each of the four main metals are as follows:
- Zinc: $4.50 to $8 per square foot
- Copper: $5 to $10 per square foot
- Aluminum: $1 to $5 per square foot
- Steel: $3.50 to $8 per square foot
If you’re thinking of installing metal siding, you’ll want to factor long-term energy costs into your decision. While metal siding is incredible at keeping air conditioning costs down in the summer, metal siding does not absorb heat in the winter, which can lead to increased heating bills. For most people in Las Vegas and surrounding areas, air conditioning savings will far outweigh the increased heating bills.
How Much Does It Cost to Install Metal Siding?
The cost of installation is mostly dependent on the type of metal you select and the size of your home. The amount of prep work required to start siding installation also impacts the installation cost. If you need to tear down the existing siding, the tear down will cost time and money. Average installation costs for each of the four major types of metals for siding are as follows:
- Zinc: $1 to $2 per square foot
- Copper: $1.50 to $3 per square foot
- Aluminum: $1 to $2 per square foot
- Steel: $1 to $2.50 per square foot
Typically, horizontal siding is easier and cheaper to install than vertical siding. Aluminum siding is probably the cheapest metal you can find, but it doesn’t retain all of the benefits of a pricier metal like copper. Steel is the most common siding type and is highly durable and relatively inexpensive. However, it will eventually need to be replaced, whereas copper and zinc can easily last a lifetime (or more).
Related: How Much Does It Cost to Put Siding on a House?
How Long Does Metal Siding Last?
Metal siding should typically last for 20-40 years. A great indicator of the expected lifespan of metal siding is the warranty duration. Aluminum will oxidize and has a shorter lifespan than steel, but can last for decades depending on the climate and how well it’s maintained. If you live in an area prone to natural disasters, steel siding is the most capable of withstanding assaults from fire, wind, and water. Properly-installed copper siding can last for a minimum of 75 years, while zinc can last for over 100 years.
The single most significant asset of most homeowners is their house. Part of protecting that asset is making wise construction decisions. Metal siding does cost more to install upfront but comes with considerable practical advantages which reduce maintenance costs over time and can best protect your home. By working with professional installers, you can make the right choice of siding for your home.
