How much does it cost to install metal siding?

Reviewed by Cristina Miguelez remodeling expert. Written by Fixr.com.

There are many options for siding, and metal has been on the market for quite a while. People use corrugated metal sheets to cover their home’s sides to protect it from the wind and rain. Aluminum siding that could be installed like traditional wood lap siding was first introduced in the 1950s as the first alternative to wood siding. Metal siding has continued to advance and is now available in a wide range of materials, with steel and aluminum being the two most common. Metal siding also comes in many styles, from the original corrugated sheet panels to realistic-looking log-look siding. There is a wide range of costs for metal siding because of these variations.

The national average is between $7,500 and $15,000, with most people paying $10,500 for pre-finished board and batten steel siding installed on a 1,500-square-foot area. This project’s lowest cost is $4,500 for installing corrugated tin sheet panels over a 1,500-square-foot area. The high cost is $52,000 for installing copper plank siding over a 1,500 square foot area.

Metal Siding Costs

Metal Siding Cost per Square Foot

Metal siding encompasses many materials and styles. Metal siding materials range from tin to copper and cost between $1 and $30 per square foot. The most common types of metal siding are aluminum and steel, which cost between $2 and $6 a square foot.

Metal Siding Cost by Material

Many metals can be used as siding. Some are more readily available than others, and many come in different styles. They each have costs and attributes to consider:

Tin Siding

Tin siding is one of the oldest types of metal siding. It is not very common on homes today, but it is still used on barns, outbuildings, and commercial buildings. It is sold in panels or sheets and has a corrugated appearance. Tin is lightweight and fairly easy to cut and shape. However, it dents easily and offers fewer options than others. It costs between $1 and $3 a square foot.

Aluminum Siding

Aluminum siding is lightweight and rust-proof. It comes in many styles but is most commonly sold as a horizontal lap style siding. It is more susceptible to dents and scratches than other metals, but these can be easily repaired. Aluminum siding is relatively inexpensive and can be painted in any color. It can also come with a factory finish. Paint and finishes fade over time, so they must be repainted every 5 to 10 years. Expect to pay $2 to $3 a square foot.

Steel Siding

Most metal siding is steel. This is a much harder and more durable material than aluminum, so it is less likely to dent. Some types may rust if the surface finish is scratched away. There are also types of steel siding with a premium baked-on finish with a lifetime warranty and guarantee against fading, cracking, or peeling. Steel siding also comes in many styles and finishes. Prices range from $4 to $6 a square foot for most types.

Insulated Steel Siding

Insulated steel siding is a relative newcomer and only available in a few styles. One of the most readily available is steel log-look siding. This is finished to look like logs in a log cabin. The siding’s rounded shape allows for the interior to be filled with insulation. Steel siding panels are also available insulated, and one company makes insulated planks. This lowers your home’s energy bills while providing the benefits of steel siding and an attractive exterior. This siding type costs between $5 and $6 a square foot.

Vinyl-Wrapped Aluminum Siding

PVC-coated aluminum siding is a lower maintenance alternative to standard aluminum. It has an aluminum core with a vinyl siding exterior. This makes it thicker and less likely to crack than standard vinyl siding while ensuring that it does not need to be painted frequently like standard aluminum. It prevents some minor dents and dings and is less likely to warp in hot weather than standard vinyl. While aluminum siding is flame-retardant, vinyl is not. Expect to pay around $5 to $7 a square foot.

Corrugated Steel Siding

Corrugated steel siding is typically used for outbuildings and commercial buildings. It is sold in sheets and often thicker than the steel used in other siding types, so it is heavier and more durable. The siding’s shape hides imperfections from normal wear and tear, making it a good choice for busy commercial buildings. This type of siding is much less common than others, and choices may be limited. It costs between $5 and $8 a square foot on average.

Zinc Siding

Zinc is resistant to corrosion and rust and develops a beautiful patina over time. Zinc siding is not very common but can be found in panels and a few types of lap siding. Zinc is expensive, so it is usually installed as an accent with another siding. Zinc pairs well with brick, stone, and wood and adds dimension and interest to the home. Prices range from $15 to $20 a square foot.

Copper Siding

Copper is also rust and corrosion-resistant, lasting well over a 100 years in most cases. Copper also develops a patina over time, first becoming a dark brown, then turning a rich blue-green color. It takes a high degree of maintenance and care if you want to keep its polished finish and color. Copper is the most expensive type of metal siding and is most often used as an accent with other materials. It costs between $20 and $30 a square foot.

Metal Siding Pricing by Type

Metal siding comes in several types. Planks used in lap siding are the most common. However, it can also be sold as sheets, inboard and batten panels, and log-look siding.

Sheet Metal Siding

Sheet metal siding is one of the oldest styles of metal siding still in use. It is most commonly used on commercial buildings but can be used for some modern residential installations. It is also available in copper and zinc for more contemporary, high-end installations. Some types are also available with insulation backing on the panels. Sheet metal’s pricing depends on the material. Because nearly all types of metal come in this style, costs range from $1 to $30 a square foot.

Plank Metal Siding

Most types of metal siding are made to mimic the same horizontal lap siding installed on many homes. Horizontal lap siding is sold and installed in plank form. The planks have many styles, from Dutch lap to clapboard, depending on the manufacturer. They may also come smooth or with a wood grain, and most come pre-finished in a range of colors. Prices are between $2 and $30 a square foot, depending on the material.

Board and Batten Metal Siding Panels Pricing

While not as common as horizontal siding, board and batten has been rising in popularity. In metal siding, this style is sold in panel form. The panels are designed to overlap and interlock with one another for a fast-and-easy installation. This type of siding is almost always made of steel but can be found in aluminum. They come pre-finished in a range of colors, with some premium colors coming with a lifetime guarantee. Expect to pay around $3 to $5 a square foot.

Log-Look Metal Siding

Log cabin style has recently been increasing in popularity. Because real log cabins are difficult and expensive to build and maintain, many people choose to use log-look siding instead. This is a siding made out of another material that can be installed on the home’s exterior. Steel log-look siding comes in an insulated form that helps improve the home’s energy efficiency while giving it the look of a log home. This metal siding costs between $5 and $6 a square foot on average.

Metal Siding Price by Style

Like all siding materials, metal siding comes in many styles. Because metal can be cast or shaped differently, it can range from contemporary to rustic in style. No matter which home type you have, you can find a metal siding to match.

Wood Grain Metal Siding

Many types of metal siding today can have a realistic-looking wood grain. This can be achieved in several ways, from the casting to the finish. You can find metal siding with a wood grain in plank, board and batten, and log-look siding styles. Most wood grain siding is made of either aluminum or steel. It costs between $2 and $6 a square foot.

Modern Metal Siding

Several types of metal siding fall into this category. This includes corrugated sheets for a modern industrial appearance and standing seam siding for a sleeker look. It is common to mix the metal siding with other materials for a more contemporary look. For example, metal and concrete or metal and architectural fiber cement panels have a very contemporary look. Modern metal siding ranges from aluminum to zinc and $2 to $20 for materials and cost.

Metal Board and Batten Siding

Board and batten is a very popular style. It is also one of the oldest siding styles in the U.S., first created when sawmills became common. Nearly all materials can be made into this style, including metal. Most board and batten siding is made of steel. It is sold in panels that overlap one another and interlock for a fast and easy installation. Expect to pay $3 and $5 a square foot on average.

Rustic Metal Siding

Rustic metal siding comes in two fairly readily available styles - rustic board and batten and log-look siding. Both give your home the look of a cabin or farmhouse, but with extra durability. The log-look siding also comes insulated for better energy performance. Board and batten metal siding comes in a white finish for the popular white farmhouse style. This means that you can meet nearly any style for a rustic home. They cost between $3 and $6 a square foot.

Metal Siding Price by Brand

There are many manufacturers of metal siding. Some specialize in one specific look or style, while others have various products and metals. Each has costs and attributes to consider.

Premium Pro-Lap Metal Siding

Premium Pro-Lap makes a range of steel siding options. Most are a type of lap siding or horizontal siding formed in planks. The planks are two pieces molded together for a faster and easier installation. They come in several colors and styles. They also have a realistic-looking wood grain. They cost between $2 and $4 a square foot on average.

TruSide Steel Siding

TruSide makes a full range of styles, including board and batten, horizontal lap siding, and realistic metal shingle. Each is available in a wide range of colors with a finish warrantied against fading, chipping, and peeling. Their most popular line is TruCedar for its realistic cedar appearance. TruCedar steel siding prices range from $2 to $6 a square foot.

Rollex Metal Siding

Rollex manufactures steel and aluminum siding in many colors, finishes, and styles. They specialize in realistic-looking lap siding meant to float on the home’s exterior, hiding any imperfections. They also make insulated steel panels that come in a lap-look. This improves your energy efficiency and uses a durable, eco-friendly material. Their materials cost between $3 and $6 a square foot.

Trulog Steel Siding

Trulog makes two types of steel siding - a board and batten and an insulated log-look siding. Both come in a range of attractive colors and finishes. They have two finishes - a standard and a premium, with the premium having a thicker material and a more defined finish. Their products are designed to be easy to install and have a lifetime guarantee on the finish. Expect to pay $4 to $6 a square foot.

McElroy Metal Siding

McElroy has many of the same types as other companies and a panel that has a look and texture similar to stucco. They have panels and lap siding in various finishes, textures, and styles. You can match their products with most architectural styles. Their products cost between $5 and $10 a square foot.

Metal Siding Installation Cost

While there are many types of metal siding on the market, most are easy to install. Many types of metal siding are designed to interlock with one another. You can install a single set of planks or panels, then slide the next into place. Most metal siding is lightweight enough to be installed by one person, so teams can generally cover a home quickly.

Like other types of siding, metal siding should be installed over a wrapped clean and stable substrate. Most types of metal siding have starter runs and trim to smooth the installation process and give the home a complete look.

In general, metal siding costs between $2 and $4 a square foot to install. For a 1,500 sq.ft. area, the labor cost is between $3,000 and $6,000 out of the $10,500 total.

Metal Siding Installation Cost by Position

Metal siding can be installed horizontally, such as lap siding, or vertically like a board and batten installation. Panels can be installed horizontally or vertically, depending on your preference, but most types of metal siding are designed to be installed in one direction. The siding you choose dictates the direction it installs in.

There is no difference in installing a horizontal siding vs a vertical one in terms of labor costs. The variations are more likely to come from installation style, such as if the siding interlocks or it needs to be nailed down at each course. In general, you pay between $2 and $4 a square foot for installation, with an average cost of $5 to $10 a square foot.

Horizontal Metal Siding

There are many types of horizontal metal siding. The most common is lap siding. Lap siding comes in many styles, such as Dutch lap, shiplap, and clapboard. There is no difference in the installation of these styles in metal siding.

Log-look siding and some other panels are also installed horizontally. While most corrugated siding is installed vertically, it can be installed horizontally in some areas for a stylized appearance.

Vertical Metal Siding

The most common type of vertical metal siding is board and batten. This style was originally made of wood planks installed from top to bottom on the home’s exterior, with a thin strip of wood called a batten installed over the seams. Metal board and batten siding is now sold in panels overlapping and interlocking at the “battens.” This makes it much faster and easier to install than wood siding.

Most corrugated sheets are also installed vertically. This is especially helpful in rainy climates because it helps the water drain.

Cost to Replace Metal Siding

Metal siding can last for decades and in some cases for more than 100 years. But replacing it is a fairly easy task. Metal siding is completely recyclable and often valuable as scrap after removal. For this reason, costs to remove and dispose of it are usually low. Installing the new siding has the same average cost of $5 to $10 a square foot, while removing it usually adds $500. The cost to replace metal siding on a 1,500-square-foot area is around $11,000 on average.

Pros and Cons of Metal Siding

Like all materials, metal siding has positive and negative attributes. Some materials fair better or worse than others long term.

Metal siding is moisture-resistant, heat and cold-resistant, flame-retardant, and insect-resistant. Some thinner metals like tin and aluminum may dent, but steel siding is incredibly durable. Aluminum siding can fade or become chalky over time, but most steel sidings have a guaranteed lifetime finish. While steel technically can rust, the finish usually protects it.

All types of metal are 100% recyclable, which makes metal siding fairly eco-friendly. Many types of steel siding can also be insulated for even more benefit.

High-end metals like zinc and copper patina with time. This can be a benefit for some, but it may not be desirable for others. Maintaining its original finish can be high maintenance. Otherwise, most metal siding is virtually maintenance-free.

Metal Siding vs Vinyl Siding Cost

Aluminum and vinyl siding were first introduced within 10 years of each other. They were the first two materials created as lower maintenance alternatives to wood siding. Over the years, both materials have improved in quality and appearance and now come in different styles and colors. Metal lasts longer than vinyl. Metal siding lasts 50 to 100 years, while vinyl lasts about 20 years. Metal is also lower in maintenance because it is less likely to crack, warp, and burn than vinyl. Vinyl siding tends to cost $1 to $2 a square foot for material, while metal has a total price range of $1 to $30 a square foot. However, most metal siding falls between $2 and $6 a square foot for materials.

Urethane Siding vs Metal Siding

Polyurethane siding is meant to be used as an accent, rather than for the entire home. This is a type of lightweight foam made to imitate stone. It comes in several colors and finishes and is fairly easy to install. However, it is relatively new and may not last as long as other stone veneers. Metal siding is more durable and longer lasting, and it can be installed over the home’s entirety. Metal siding costs between $1 and $30 a square foot on average, while urethane siding costs between $15 and $20 a square foot.

Steel vs Aluminum Siding

Aluminum was one of the first mass-produced lap siding alternatives to wood. It is lightweight and resists corrosion while being insect-resistant and flame-retardant. However, it dents easily, and the color does not last long, requiring new paint every 5 to 10 years.

Steel siding is much more durable than aluminum. It does not dent, and while it could rust, most have been given a lifetime finish protecting the metal. Steel siding is available in more options, colors, and styles than aluminum, and steel is lower in maintenance because it does not require painting.

Aluminum costs between $2 and $3 a square foot on average, while steel costs between $4 and $6 for most types.

Barn Metal Siding Prices

If you have a barn to side, there are many types of metal siding that can work. Tin is the least expensive at $1 to $3 a square foot for corrugated sheets. You can create something more decorative with steel board and batten siding at $3 to $5 a square foot, or corrugated steel panels for more durability at $5 to $8 a square foot. Because no one material works on a barn, you can use any metal siding to create your style.

Enhancement and Improvement Costs

Painting Metal Siding

Most metal siding comes pre-painted or finished. If you choose aluminum siding, you must repaint it every 5 to 10 years. Aluminum tends to fade and become chalky over time, so it needs some prep work. The average cost to paint an exterior with prep is around $5,170.

Gutter Installation

Gutters are an important part of building construction, and the cost for gutter installation varies based on the material. Vinyl gutters are less expensive ($3-$6 per linear foot), but metal gutters are more durable ($6-$30 per linear foot). Installing 150 feet of aluminum gutters costs $1,460.

Soffit Installation

Soffits protect the roof’s underside from the elements and cost $2 to $20 per linear foot. Any contractor who is experienced with siding can also install soffits. You can get aluminum or steel soffits to match your home.

Aluminum Trim

One of the most popular trim options is aluminum, as it is durable and more long-lasting than other choices. The primary purpose of trim is to protect against water and moisture from seeping into the home. It is also essential for preventing the entrance of birds, rodents, and other pests that can damage and set up house in the attic of your home. The national average cost for installing aluminum trim on a 1,500 sq. ft. home is $3,200. Homeowners who need to replace sections of aluminum trim should expect to pay $.06 to $7.50 per inch, depending on the width and quality of the product.

Additional Considerations and Costs

• It is recommended to remove the old siding rather than putting new siding over the old siding. You cannot know what is underneath the old siding, and removal is the best way to tell. Removing old siding costs $0.25 to $0.75 per square, depending on the material. For a 1,500 sq.ft. house, this costs $375 - $1,125.
• To get an idea of the most reasonable price for your particular house, talk to multiple contractors. Get quotes from at least 3-4 contractors. In general, avoid going with the lowest price simply because the old adage applies - you get what you pay for. Check reviews and ask for references from previous clients.
• There are many types of metal siding. Find a contractor who has experience with the type or brand you have.
• Before signing a contract, ensure that the contractor is licensed and insured. They should be able to provide appropriate documentation. This protects you, your home, and the workers in case of injury or damage.
• You may be tempted to make this a DIY project, but hiring professionals can make the process go much faster, and you do not have to worry about hazards. If you decide to DIY, planning is essential. Have your materials prepped ahead of time and your siding already cut to fit before you start.
• There are different requirements for building structures larger than a shed, so contact your municipal zoning board to see if you need special permits. For residential purposes, some neighborhoods have restrictions on building materials for aesthetic purposes, so you need to ensure you have the correct permits for building changes.
• Metal siding is incredibly low-maintenance. Aluminum siding is subject to scratches and dents, but otherwise, most metal generally needs cleaning once a year. Pressure washing costs around $275 on average. Aluminum siding may also need to be repainted every few years because the original paint or pre-color can fade.