Steel siding was first patented in 1903, but initial designs were susceptible to water penetration and rust, which did not make it a particularly favorable material for siding. Further improvements in design led to more widespread use in the 1930s. The material’s use in construction, however, was interrupted briefly during the war years when the demands on the US steel industry were necessarily concentrated on building more firepower. Steel’s use in construction enjoyed a resurgence right after the war, when the housing shortage boosted sales once more.

The popularity of steel siding in the 1930s can be attributed to the agricultural sector. It was during this time when grooved steel siding was used to build “pole barns,” as doing so was seen to contribute to the durability of the buildings. The practice of using steel siding on buildings eventually became common in rural areas.

Today, there are two types of steel siding panels – galvanized and stainless steel – and their use today is no longer contained to just rural areas. Galvanized steel is coated with zinc, which protects the steel from corrosion. Stainless steel, on the other hand, contains chromium. This, too, helps in protecting the inner material from rust and corrosion.

PART ONE: WHAT IS STEEL SIDING?

PART ONE: WHAT IS STEEL SIDING?

Different types of siding are available for different applications. These include:

Corrugated

Corrugated siding is the most flexible of all the options on the market, making it ideal for both residential and commercial buildings. It is also considered to be among the most economical, so property owners can count on having durable walls without breaking the bank. Corrugated steel siding can also be engineered specifically for facility maintenance applications, as well as for large-span projects.

Recessed

Recessed siding panels usually have concealed fasteners, which minimizes the number of visible through-holes. They also provide better protection against moisture penetration. You can find steel recessed siding with more than one panel, which is more suitable if you wish to create a more architectural look.

Ribbed

Ribbed siding is another economical choice, combining form, function, and cost savings. Some ribbed siding products have trapezoidal profiles, which make for great accessories for use in especially demanding architectural applications.

Moreover, contrary to what most homeowners may think, steel siding does not come only in cold gray. Manufacturers offer a diverse palette, so property owners can design their homes and commercial buildings without needing to worry about sacrificing aesthetics. Homeowners can take their pick from various finishes and textures to achieve their style or design goals.

It’s no secret that steel siding can cost quite a bit more than vinyl or wood cladding, or even its other metal counterpart, aluminum. Still, its popularity is growing once more, with some industry experts saying it is an inherently better investment than aluminum. And there are a lot of good reasons for that. Here are a few of them:

Durability

According to the International Association of Certified Home Inspectors (InterNACHI), steel siding can withstand the impact of baseballs and tree branches better than other types of siding. Weather elements such as hailstones, wind-blown debris, and heavy rain are also less likely to dent steel than, say, vinyl or wood. As such, steel siding works well in areas that experience extreme weather events.

Sustainability

Steel products can always be recycled back into production when they reach the end of their life spans. This is why it is said that a typical 2000-square-foot home will need 40 to 50 trees if you want to build with wood, but only six scrap automobiles if you go with steel.

Decay Resistance

Unlike wood, steel siding is not organic. Insects cannot burrow in it, and organic decay is not even a possibility.

PART TWO: WHY SHOULD YOU CHOOSE STEEL SIDING

Easy MaintenanceSteel siding panels can be painted with non-fading colors, lessening the need for repainting often. Dirt and debris can also be easily washed off the panels. In addition, weathering has no visible unsightly effects on steel, unlike on other cladding materials.

Fire Resistance

InterNACHI says that steel’s melting point is at approximately 2,500 degrees Fahrenheit, making it less susceptible to catching and spreading fire. FEMA also says that while a material like vinyl will not readily catch fire either, it will melt under high temperatures.

Even better is the fact that steel siding now comes in custom-cut panels that you can just about literally wrap around your house – creating better water protection and clean lines. Seamless steel siding is measured, cut, and shaped at your actual project site to ensure proper fit.

PART TWO: WHY SHOULD YOU CHOOSE STEEL SIDING

Perhaps one of the most significant drawbacks to steel siding is the caution with which installation must be approached. Steel is heavier than aluminum, requiring more labor on the part of the installer. In addition, cutting custom steel is often a noisy process. But that does not mean it is not worth your time. Quality steel siding installation means getting a home investment that can last for years, as long as the following are considered:

Taking Care of the Technicalities

Proper locking and alignment

Base siding provides the foundation for all the other panels. Particular care should be given to make sure the lock of the panel is properly attached to the interlock of the starter strip, and corner alignment is secure. Hemmed flashing is recommended for corners.

Direction of installation

Siding should be installed starting from the corners, working toward the front of the home. When using both factory-cut and custom-cut siding, position the factory-cut ends over the field-cuts for cleaner lines.

Adjusting for contraction and expansion

If you’re installing siding during cold weather, you should adjust for contraction and expansion; at least 1/8” between possible restriction areas such as corner posts should be freed. If steel siding is installed during hot weather, less room is required.

PART THREE: INSTALLATION CONSIDERATIONS

Proper staggering

Panels should be installed so that joints are not positioned directly above or below windows. Some installers separate two vertical joints with at least two courses of panels.

Hiring the Right People

Steel siding installation is best done by professionals who have years of experience, especially if you wish to use custom siding. Steel panels require specialized cutting techniques and equipment, unlike other types of siding. And, other nuances of the job are best understood by those who are trained in it.

Your job is to choose your installer carefully. Always look at a potential contractor’s portfolio to gauge the scope of their experience, and schedule a consultation before making a final decision. A written estimate is also important.

Steel siding installation involves various complex technical considerations. As such, it is recommended that you leave it to the professionals.

PART THREE: INSTALLATION CONSIDERATIONS

Seamless Exterior

6227 Nordic DriveCedar Falls Iowa 50613

(319) 243-3600(641) 316-2224

SeamlessExterior.com