Metal siding can last up to 50 years or more, depending on how well it's cared for, but it's not indestructible. Whether you have aluminum or steel siding, you could experience some type of damage along the way. Be it impact damage from hail or other flying objects or superficial scratches from overgrown shrubbery, you may need to repair your metal siding.
Don't let unsightly damage to your home's exterior ruin its curb appeal. Siding repair costs less than a new siding installation, and you can even do it yourself. Here are step-by-step tutorials for each type of repair you're likely to encounter, but if DIY is not your middle name, we can connect you with a pro in your area.
How to patch a hole in aluminum or metal siding
Photo courtesy of Reddit
Dents and scratches don't threaten a house like a hole in the siding would. So, let's start with how to repair the most significant damage.
To begin an aluminum siding repair, you'll need the following tools and materials:
Metal snips
Paint thinner or cleaning solvent
Fine-grit sandpaper
An epoxy like JB Weld Steel Reinforced Epoxy
Adhesive specific for metal like Plexus MA300
A leftover siding panel or piece of sheet metal the same weight as the siding
Step 1. Assess the damage
Measure the hole. According to Austin Skoog, owner of Sky Side Exteriors in Montana, you can usually patch it with epoxy if it’s less than half an inch. However, larger holes require a patch or a replacement piece.
Step 2. Clean the area
Clean the area around the hole with a solvent to remove any dirt, grease, or debris preventing the material from adhering.
Step 3. Cover the hole
A small hole with epoxy
Follow the manufacturer's directions to activate the putty. Then, apply it directly over the hole, pressing it into the opening. Use a putty knife to smooth the putty and blend it into the surrounding area. Let it dry per the instructions or at least 24 hours.
A large hole with a patch
To create a patch, cut a piece of metal of the same weight as the siding, slightly larger than the hole. If you have extra pieces from when the siding was installed, use one of those.
Skoog recommends roughening the surface surrounding the hole with sandpaper to help the patch adhere. Then, apply adhesive around the hole, press the patch firmly into place, and smooth the edges with a putty knife. Let the adhesive dry according to the manufacturer’s directions.
Alternatively, some experts suggest riveting or welding the patch to the existing surface and sealing the edges with caulking. However, this technique leaves a more noticeable repair than using the adhesive.
Step 4. Sand and paint
Once the repair is dry, smooth it with fine-grit sandpaper. Then, apply a coat of rust-inhibiting primer and paint the patched area to match the rest of the siding. For a perfect match, check with your siding manufacturer for touch-up paint.
When installing new siding, save at least a half-square from any overage. When you need to repair any damage.
How to repair a dent in metal siding
Photo courtesy of Sellers Roofing
You may see dents in your metal siding from hail, a random ball, or flying missiles from the lawn mower. Some experts suggest using tools you probably don't have lying around the house to put pressure on the dent and pull it out. Filling the dent is a lot easier and something anyone can do for themselves.
For this repair, you'll need
A filler material like Bondo or Platinum Patch by DAP
A lumber scrap or piece of cardboard to serve as a palette
Putty knife or one-sided razor blade
Fine-grit sandpaper
Touch-up paint
Step 1. Clean the area
Clean the dent and surrounding area with a solvent to remove any dirt or residue preventing the filler from adhering.
Step 2. Sand the area
Sand the area to roughen the surface for better adhesion.
Step 3. Prepare the filler
If you're using a 2-part epoxy, follow the manufacturer's directions to mix a small amount of the product. Never mix the entire tube as it dries in minutes. Other fillers like Bondo don't require mixing.
Step 4. Fill the dents
Apply the filler using a putty knife, one-sided razor blade, or small skewer. Skoog recommends slightly overfilling to allow for sanding. Leave the filler to dry according to the manufacturer’s directions.
Step 5. Sand and paint
Once completely dry, sand the filler smooth with fine-grit sandpaper, blending it into the surrounding surface. Then, apply primer and paint to match the rest of the siding.
How to repair scratches in metal siding
Photo courtesy of ATAS International
New metal siding is treated to be scuff and scratch-resistant, which may be covered in your warranty. But if your older siding is scratched, it's an easy fix. Here are a few things you may need for this home improvement project.
Cleaning solvent
Fine-grit sandpaper
Filler product
Paint
Step 1. Assess the damage
Light scratches that don't penetrate the surface can be gently sanded with fine-grit sandpaper until smooth. Clean with a cleaning solvent and touch up the paint as needed.
Step 2. Fill deep scratches
Work a small amount of filler or epoxy into the scratch, smoothing with a putty knife or plastic scraper. When dry, sand to smooth, blending in as you go.
Step 3. Paint
If necessary, apply primer and paint to match.
Repair or replace metal siding
Many siding professionals recommend replacing the damaged piece over patching. "It's as easy as a vinyl siding repair," says Mike Igo, vice president of Klauer Manufacturing, "but it's more work." He believes a skilled homeowner with the proper tools could do it themselves.
But what if you have more than one damaged piece? How do you tell whether it's cost-effective to repair your siding or best to replace it all? To help you decide, walk around the house and look for the following.
Large damaged area. Hail storms can cause widespread damage to your siding and roofing. If you find damage in multiple places, it's best to replace it all.
Fading or discoloration. New siding materials withstand the effects of harmful UV rays. But if your old siding has faded or lost its color entirely, it's best to replace it.
Loss of integrity. If your circa 1950s aluminum siding sags where it shouldn't, it's time to do more than paint or repair.
Infiltration. Signs that your siding no longer protects as it should include bubbled paint, peeling wallpaper, and moldy drywall due to moisture. If you see these signs, call a siding contractor to perform an inspection.
How to maintain metal siding
Having a professional clean your metal siding costs $300 to $600.
The cost to have your siding painted is $6,242 to $11,617.
Routine care of metal siding is easy peasy. Just wash it off now and again with mild, soapy water and a clean cloth. Then, spray with a garden hose to rinse off the soap. Do not use a pressure washer.
DIY vs. hiring a pro
If your metal siding has minimal damage, fixing it is a simple, straightforward task most homeowners can tackle unassisted. However, you may feel less confident if you want to replace the piece of siding rather than patch it. For this type of repair or for something more extensive, it's best to call in the pros.
Frequently asked questions
Aluminum siding can last 50 years or more, depending on the quality of the product and its coating.
Yes! Kaykan and PlyGem are well-known companies that make quality aluminum siding products in various styles and colors.
Absolutely! The average cost to paint metal siding is $2.30 to $4.30 per square foot, or $5,073 to $9,442 for the entire house.
Carol J Alexander is a home remodeling industry expert for Fixr.com. For more than 15 years as a journalist and content marketer, her in-depth research, interviewing skills, and technical insight have ensured she provides the most accurate and current information on a given topic. Before joining the Fixr team, her personal clients included leaders in the building materials market like Behr Paint Company, CertainTeed, and Chicago Faucet, and national publications like This Old House and Real Homes.