Last Updated on December 13, 2022 by Kravelv
Aluminum siding and steel siding are the most popular siding. Both of these sidings contain different properties as the aluminum siding is easy to install and it is easily cut because it is made with a lighter material whereas the steel siding does not cut so easily. Aluminum siding is less costly than steel siding but the performance of the steel siding is exceptional as it has the ability to survive in tough weather conditions. Steel siding is highly resistant and it is also a good fire-resistant siding. Steel siding is also environmentally friendly as it makes a comfortable atmosphere in the house’s attic.
Aluminum vs Steel Siding in a Glance
Steel Siding
Steel siding is a form of metal siding that combines iron and carbon. It may come in stainless or galvanized steel, depending on what your local contractor carries. Both resist corrosion but stainless steel does a better job of maintaining its appearance because protective chromium is mixed in with the steel, unlike the zinc coating on galvanized steel that eventually wears away. Steel siding can be installed using custom forge fasteners from a manufacturer such as Dyson. When securing exterior siding, only galvanized or stainless-steel fasteners should ever be used.
Aluminum Siding
Aluminum siding is made up of aluminum coil stock that is coated with chemicals to protect the metal and painted for more protection and a more clean look. The good thing about aluminum siding is that it won’t rust, impervious to termites and its fire-proof.
Aluminum vs Steel Siding: Durability
If you are going to compare the aluminum siding and steel siding then you must know that the both of the sidings are durable but if you want to choose any of the ones then it must be the steel siding because it is extremely well durable than any other siding especially, if you compare it with the aluminum siding. Steel siding remains durable to about 40 years of life whereas the aluminum siding gets only 20-25 years, therefore, you can say that the steel siding is much durable and long-lasting than the aluminum siding as it is made with the hard material and survive longer than any other siding.
Aluminum vs Steel Siding: Cost
Aluminum siding is less costly than the steel siding as it is made with the lighter material whereas the steel siding is heavy in weight and is made with the tough material, therefore, the cost of the steel siding is high from most of the siding because it can survive in tough conditions as well and survive longer. Since costs and the degree of damage are closely related (you must also take the professionalism and experience from contractors into consideration), the team at Lifetime Exteriors highly recommends devoting enough time to assess what you need.
Aluminum vs Steel Siding: Resistance
Steel siding has the ability to resist in all weather conditions and it also remains firm against the fire, therefore, you can say that the steel siding is good fire-resistant. On the other hand, aluminum siding is not considered to be tough as the steel siding and it is not highly resistant to fight against the tough weather conditions. Steel siding also has the capacity to prevent the water from going under the siding. Aluminum siding also prevents the water from going under the siding but it does not survive in the areas where there are tough weather conditions.
Aluminum vs Steel Siding: Climate-Friendly
As the steel siding is costly and strong than the aluminum siding, however, it has the ability to strongly stand against the tough weather conditions. Steel siding also useful in the higher peak areas where there is cold temperature as it makes the warm attic of your house in the cold weather conditions whereas the aluminum siding does not response hardly against the tough weather conditions as it is made with the lighter material. It is useful only in the dry areas or that are on the sea level. Therefore, the steel siding is more climate-friendly than the aluminum siding.
Aluminum vs Steel Siding FAQs
How can I tell if my siding is aluminum or steel?
From a distance, these two sidings look the same, thus, differentiating between steel and aluminum siding is a bit tricky. Someone might need to use a magnet to give a more conclusive result. This is due to the magnet will interact with steel but not with aluminum. Also, if rust spots are present in the siding, it is an indication that it is steel. Also worth noting is that a properly installed aluminum siding does not touch the ground.
Does steel siding increase home value?
Yes. This is because of steel sidings durability it can last for quite a while if properly maintained. Steel siding is long-lasting. The siding material is so reliable in fact that it is still in use today despite being patented in 1903. A properly installed steel siding can withstand strong winds and tough weather which is preferred by home buyers thus, increasing your home value if you decide to sell it.
What is the easiest siding to install?
Between aluminum vs steel siding, aluminum is the easiest to install due to the fact that it is made with lighter materials as compared to steel siding.
How long steel siding lasts?
Aluminum siding can last up to 40 years or more according to the International Association of Certified Home Inspectors, but to make it last that long, it is needed to be painted between five to 10 years.
Bottom Line: Aluminum vs Steel Siding
Homeowners comparing aluminum vs steel siding concluded that both sidings contain a huge difference in their properties as the steel siding is highly resistant and can survive the tough weather conditions whereas the aluminum siding does not survive in hard weather. However, both of the sidings contain a beautiful look and available in a wide range of colors. Aluminum siding is easily installed and cut as it is made with the lighter material whereas steel siding is not installed easily. If sidings of your house are damaged and beyond repair then, in that case, you really need to contact professional Michigan siding contractors for expert advice.