How Much Does Metal Siding Cost?
2022 Notice: Material Prices Are Surging
Demand for siding and other building materials has grown over the past year. And as a result, manufacturers are increasing materials prices. Prices have gone up 5% to 10% this year, and many parts of the country are experiencing long delivery times. If you're planning a building project, we recommend starting as early as possible in the season, preparing for potential price fluctuations, and allowing extra time to order materials.
The national average metal siding cost is $11,176, with typical projects ranging between $3,994 and $19,236. Depending on square footage, materials used and labor costs, you might pay as little as $500 or as much as $35,000.
With its superior rigidity and durability, metal is an ideal material to use for your home’s siding. It has low maintenance requirements and can withstand conditions that would buckle, warp, and crack other materials.
Metal Siding Cost Per Square Foot
Metal siding typically costs between $3 and $35 per square foot. This range in fees can be the result of choosing different metals. For example, tin is on the lower end at $1 to $3 per square foot, whereas copper comes in at up to $35 per square foot.
| Size | Cost (Aluminum) | Cost (Steel) |
|---|---|---|
| 1,000 Sq Ft Home | $3,000 – $6,000 | $8,000+ |
| 1,500 Sq Ft Home | $4,500 – $7,500 | $12,000+ |
| 2,000 Sq Ft Home | $6,000 – $12,000 | $16,000+ |
| 2,500 Sq Ft Home | $75,00 – $$15,000 | $20,000+ |
Insulated versions of these increase the cost by about $1 per square foot due to increased labor and materials. From there, installation costs and the size of your home will help determine the final price you pay.
Metal Siding Cost Factors
Size of House
The size of the home or area where metal siding is being added drastically increases the price. A standard 1,500-square-foot area might cost $20,000 less than a larger home if you're installing high end metal, such as zinc, for example.
Quality of Metal
Metal's quality is determined by how effectively the ore is smelted down. Purchasing materials from trusted vendors with good ratings can help you find quality metal at an affordable price.
Metal prices vary based on market prices. If there's a shortage of aluminum nationally or globally, the market rates will be higher and you will definitely pay more for materials.
Soffit and Gutter Repair
Some siding projects can't be completed without tackling other exterior jobs, such as removing or replacing your current gutters or reinforcing the soffits on the side of your home. Soffits cost $10 to $23 per twelve-foot section.
Labor Costs
Depending on square footage, materials used and labor costs, you might pay as little as $525 or as much as $33,382. If your home's siding is difficult to access or you live in a remote area, expect this to be factored into the price.
Metal Siding Cost By Type
Not all metal is created equally. In fact, a larger budget can help you score some of the most durable, long lasting siding of any material on the market.
| Metal Siding Type | Cost Per Square Foot | Average Total to Install* |
|---|---|---|
| Tin | $1 – $3 | $1,400 – $7,200 |
| Aluminum | $3 – $6 | $4,200 – $10,800 |
| Steel | $4 – $8 | $5,600 – $14,400 |
| Zinc | $15 – $25 | $21,000 – $45,000 |
| Copper | $20 – $35 | $28,000 – $63,000 |
Zinc Siding
Zinc siding costs around $15 to $25 per square foot, making it one of the most expensive meal siding options for homeowners. It's on the higher end price wise because it's a metal that resists rust and corrosion. It's rated to last 80 to 100 years.
Tin Siding
Tin siding costs about $1 to $3 per square foot, making it the most affordable metal option available for siding. But tin is susceptible to dents and corrosion, so it may need to be replaced every 15 years.
Copper Siding Prices
Copper siding costs between $20 and $35 per square foot. Like zinc, copper is a higher-end material with superior resistance to rust and corrosion, but at a higher cost. Like zinc, it's rated to last about 100 years.
Aluminum
The cost to install aluminum siding ranges between $3 and $6 per square foot.
Aluminum does not rust, making it a popular choice for homeowners on a budget that still want to avoid corrosion. That said, it is still susceptible to scratches and dents like tin. It can last as long as 50 years if it's well maintained.
Steel Siding Cost
Steel siding costs about $4 to $8 per square foot installed. Corrugated steel costs between $5 and $8 per square foot. Costs vary depending on the seamlessness of individual panels as well as the type of installation.
Seamless Steel Siding Cost
Steel panels can have exposed fasteners or concealed fasteners. Concealed fastener panels give a seamless, uniform look that some homeowners love. Expect to pay twice as much as you would for regular steel siding, though; up to $16 per square foot is possible.
Steel Log Siding Prices
Another popular way to install steel siding is by individual “log” style pieces, which cost around $5 per square foot. These recreate the look of a log cabin with much greater longevity than traditional wood.
Steel Siding Cost Per Square Foot
The cost of steel siding can range between $12,000 and $22,000 or more on average. Your steel house siding cost will vary based on the size of your home, the complexity of the project and whether or not you include insulation, which will increase the price you pay per square foot.
| House Size | Typical Steel Siding Cost | Cost With Insulation |
|---|---|---|
| 1,500 Sq. Ft. | $12,000 | $13,500 |
| 2,000 Sq. Ft. | $16,000 | $18,000 |
| 2,500 Sq. Ft. | $20,000+ | $22,500+ |
DIY vs. Hiring a Professional
Metal is a heavy material that can be difficult to install without the proper help and know-how. Installing siding also can require tasks like siding removal, digging, insulation setup, and sealing at the end to ensure the wood underneath doesn't come in contact with water. For that reason, it's only recommended for really savvy DIY homeowners.
For quality, maintenance, and safety issues, it’s recommended that you find siding installation companies in your area to handle the installation for you.
FAQs
What are the advantages and disadvantages of metal siding?
Metal, compared to other siding materials, offers some really great benefits. But it doesn't come without its drawbacks, either.
Advantages of metal siding:
It is fire resistant and highly unlikely to melt in most house fires.
It is weatherproof.
It can feature long sections for a seamless look.
It is one of the most eco-friendly siding materials since it is often recycled and can be recycled again after removal.
Metal requires little upkeep besides water and soap.
Disadvantages of metal siding:
It is heavy and generally requires hiring siding contractors rather than a DIY approach.
It is often considered a special-order product, taking up to two weeks or more for order fulfillment.
Certain metals, like tin, can dent easily when struck with hail or other objects.
Is metal siding cheaper than vinyl?
Not always. The cost for vinyl siding installation ranges between $3 and $12 per square foot, whereas tin, aluminum, or steel cost between $1 and $8 per square foot. Copper and zinc are generally more expensive than vinyl, costing between $15 and $35 per square foot.
What’s the difference between aluminum and steel siding?
Aluminum is a lighter material than steel and costs less per square foot. It also generally costs less to install, as it is more flexible and easier to work with.
However, choosing steel may save you eventual siding repair costs because it is much more resilient than aluminum. An occasional coat of paint every 20 years maximizes its durability and resistance to corrosion.
Is metal siding cheaper than wood?
Again, it comes down to the specific material you choose. Some wood, like cedar or redwood, can be $16 or more per square foot. Compared that to tin siding, and you're saving thousands on materials alone. That said, higher end zinc siding costs a lot more than several softwoods, hardwoods, and manufactured woods.
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