For metal buildings, metal siding is very popular. Due to the excellent durability and long life of metal. As a result, it is becoming increasingly popular as a siding and roofing material. In addition, it doesn’t hurt that it also looks great. Metal siding is more commonly used in commercial and industrial metal buildings. This can make metal buildings last longer.
If you’re thinking about installing steel siding, here’s what we recommend. Whether you plan to put it on your home or an outbuilding. Then we’ll walk you through the process of installing steel siding, specifically vertical siding.
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Pros and Cons of Metal Siding
People choose steel siding over traditional asphalt or wood siding for a variety of reasons. As amazing as the benefits are, metal siding can also have some drawbacks. That is why we want to take an honest look at both the advantages and disadvantages.
Pros
- Environmentally Friendly: Metal siding, like steel buildings, is recyclable. They do not want to be landfilled like other materials.
- Beautiful Curb Appeal: Metal siding options have expanded significantly. Homeowners can choose from corrugated, seamless panels, and various colored metals. In addition, there are even metal wall panels that look like wood grain.
- Fire and Damage Resistant: Steel siding is quite thick and sturdy, and it can withstand most hail and debris. Sheet metal siding and steel buildings have excellent fire protection. As a result, this may benefit homeowners living in areas prone to wildfires during the dry season.
- Very Low Maintenance: Metal siding is low maintenance. It is resistant to most elements, including weather, temperature changes, mold and mildew, and pests such as termites and rats.
Cons
- Poor Insulation: Metal siding does not insulate as effectively as other siding materials. Therefore, it requires appropriate insulation to be added underneath it for proper effectiveness. You can find out what the best insulation for metal buildings
- High Cost: The initial expenses of installing steel siding are significantly greater because it is heavier and more expensive in general. Labor costs also rise because it is more difficult to install.
- Easily Corroded: Steel siding should withstand most conditions, but if it is damaged, it may corrode. Much like a damaged vehicle, damaged sections will lose their integrity and rust faster than the rest.
- Not Completely Resistant to Damage: Powerful winds with huge hail can still harm your metal siding if they strike hard enough. Furthermore, any type of metal is susceptible to scratches if scraped with something very sharp.
How To Install Vertical Steel Siding
Installing vertical steel siding presents its own set of challenges. So we always recommend hiring a professional. However, if you take the right steps, you can also install it to complete a perfect metal siding project.
Step 1: Level All Walls
Make sure the walls are level before beginning any installation. Steel siding will appear best when put on a flat surface. If any part of the wall is uneven, it can be readily corrected by shaving off pieces of the frame or using wood to fill in any gaps.
Step 2: Install Furring Strips
Install furring strips horizontally and approximately 16 inches apart (particularly if the wall is uneven). These horizontal strips will provide adequate support for installing your vertical steel siding. This aids in flattening the siding, making it even and smooth.
Step 3: Install Sheathing
Place 1-inch thick sheathing on top of recently installed furring strips. This will help to insulate your home and provide a flat working surface for installing all of the panels.
Note: Avoid placing battens and sheathing if you are working on a completely flat surface. For example when building a new home rather than replacing siding.
Step 4: Install Corner Pieces
When you order metal siding, it should come with corner pieces. These corner pieces will be adhered to each corner of the house where the siding will be installed. These corner pieces will then be nailed in place.
Step 5: Install J-Channel
Install your J-channel. The j-channel is an installation item that allows the steel siding panels to be installed flawlessly without any visible nails or bolts. These will have holes in them to allow for nails to adhere to the bottom, top, and corners of the house and the window sills. Basically, anywhere an edge of the siding will be placed. They can be cut to size with a tin snip or power saw.
Step 6: Measure Walls
Measure each wall to calculate how many steel panels you’ll need to install. Divide the measurement you get by the width of each panel to get that number. If it is off, you will need to use partial panels, which you can pre-cut using tin snips or a power saw.
Step 7: Install Partial Panels First
Word to the wise, before you begin installing all your panels, install your partial ones first. Splitting the half panels on each end can improve the appearance significantly. This means that you don’t have to install all the panels first and then install a partial panel at the end. You can split that partial panel in half and place one on each end for a more balanced look.
Step 8: Install Panels
Begin by inserting your first panel or partial panels into the corner pieces you’ve previously installed. They should snap and lock into place easily. Secure by pounding nails into the pre-made nail slots.
Step 9: Overlap Panels
Install the next panel by overlapping it with the first one, and continue until the entire wall is covered in steel siding panels. Keep in mind that you will need to cut any to fit around the windows. This can be done before or during the installation. However, this will require some more time.
Summarize
In short, installing metal siding is both a valuable and durable option for your building. With the proper preparation, tools, and techniques, you can achieve a sleek, modern look. Not only does this improve the aesthetics of your building, but it also provides lasting protection against the elements.
Also, when choosing the right colour scheme for your exterior metal building. You need to consider the harmony of your surroundings with the overall architectural style to ensure that the end result is both aesthetically pleasing and functional.
Whether you choose to hire a professional or do it yourself. By following the right steps, you can create a beautiful and functional exterior. With low maintenance and impressive durability, metal siding is a smart investment. It increases the value of your building and extends its lifespan at the same time.
