If you are considering installing metal siding for your home, you should consider the cost, the environmental impact, and the durability. You should also consider how easy it is to install. This article will address these issues. Metal siding can mimic the look of various materials, including wood siding. For example, you can get aluminum siding that mimics natural cedar shakes.
The cost of metal siding is determined by a variety of factors. These factors include the materials used and the installation costs. The gauge of the metal is also an important consideration. The heavier the gauge, the more expensive it is. The average gauge of metal siding for a home is between 22 and 29 gauges.
Metal siding is usually installed in panels. There are several different types. Exposed fastener panels are the most common. However, there are now concealed fastener panels that are more modern and provide a cleaner look. These panels are more expensive than exposed fastener panels, and installing them is more difficult.
Metal siding has many advantages. It is low maintenance, resistant to insects, and recyclable. However, it is not the best choice for areas that are constantly wet. Metal siding is prone to corrosion and can dent, which can create an unsightly appearance. Moreover, the cost of metal siding depends on the material used. Typical aluminum and steel panels can cost between $3 and $6 per square foot. Copper and zinc siding can last over 100 years.
When comparing the cost of metal and Hardie Board siding, keep in mind that installing these materials requires specialized labor. They require a licensed professional to install them. The installation costs of metal siding can be lower than those of which needs to be installed by a general contractor. A professional installation service is essential in order to get the best results.
Aluminum siding costs $3 to $6 per square foot uninstalled. Depending on the quality and quantity, these materials may cost as much as $10 per square foot. Fiber cement siding can also be a lower-cost option. However, this material will require painting or coating before installation. If you want to add a coating, you can expect the cost to increase.
Metal siding can last up to 50 years or more. Depending on the quality and installation, a metal siding installation can last for decades. A high-quality contractor will ensure proper expansion joints and moisture protection so that the siding can last a long time.
Despite being a popular choice for siding, metal siding is not the most eco-friendly material. The process of manufacturing consumes energy and is highly destructive. A recent study conducted by a University examined the environmental impact of six common siding materials. In one study, aluminum scored the lowest, while wood was rated the highest.
The environmental impact of metal siding can be mitigated by using sustainable materials and installation methods. Many siding manufacturers perform life cycle assessments of their own products, which may be biased in favor of their own products. However, some of these analyses have compared the environmental impacts of these siding options over 60 years. The findings indicate that wood and vinyl have the lowest impact overall, while metal siding has the highest environmental impact.
However, there are downsides to choosing stone as siding. Stone comes from quarries, which are energy-intensive and destroy habitats. Additionally, stone requires large amounts of energy and fuel to transport. It is also heavy, and its transportation creates emissions. Stone is also expensive, and 1% of new homes are made with it. Another environmental benefit of metal siding is the recycled content. Compared to wood, metal siding contains almost 100% recycled material. During the production process, one 2,000-square-foot house of siding uses the equivalent of six scrap cars.
