Pro’s Guide to Seamless Steel Siding Installation

As professional installers look for materials that offer both robust protection and a superior finish, steel emerges as one of the top choices. For generations, steel siding has stood as a symbol of durability, beauty and longevity.  While the inherent strength of steel is unquestionable, its performance and endurance are connected to the precision and care taken during installation.

Mike Igo, Vice President of Klauer Manufacturing Company, shares a comprehensive guide that outlines the necessary steps and best practices for installing steel siding to a wall. The result is a finished product that not only looks exceptional but also stands up to the test of time and the elements.

Initial Preparation is Key

Before the first panel is ever lifted, thorough preparation of the wall surface is crucial. First start with a full inspection of the existing wall. Any signs of rot, water damage, or structural weakness should be addressed and repaired; you must ensure the sheathing is sound and securely fastened.

Next, consider potentially applying a water-resistive barrier (WRB). This layer acts as a secondary defense against moisture, even if water manages to penetrate the steel siding. Apply the WRB according to the manufacturer’s instructions, assuring proper overlap of seams.

Proper ventilation is another frequently overlooked aspect of steel siding installation. Sufficient airflow behind the product helps to prevent moisture buildup and regulate temperature. If utilizing a WRB, consider installing furring strips, possibly 1x3 or 1x4 lumber, vertically across it. These strips create an air gap and provide an optimal surface for fastening the siding panels. The spacing of furring strips will depend on the specific steel siding product and local building codes, so always check the manufacturer’s guidelines and appropriate regulations.

After completing inspection of the wall, start the actual siding job by installing J trim around windows, doors, and at inside corners. Next, install outside corners (just the outside corner bases if a 2-piece option is available, corner caps can go on at the end of the project to protect them from being damaged). Window and door jamb wraps should be installed at this time as well if applicable.

Next step is to find the starting point, snap chalk lines, and install starter strip.

Installing the “Starter Course”

Establishing a level starting line is the first step toward an accurate layout—the foundation of a professional steel siding installation.

One way this can be done is by using a level and a chalk line. The starter course, which is the first row of siding panels, is critical for making sure that the additional rows that follow are straight and aligned. Install the starter strip along the bottom of the wall to guarantee it’s level and securely fastened to the optional furring strips or sheathing.

Be aware of how the courses of siding will fit against the soffit and around windows. Adjust the strip’s height to allow for enough of a siding panel to work with, one inch of a cut panel won’t look good in these areas and will be difficult to deal with. Once the starting height is determined, measure down from the soffit in several spots and snap a chalk line to establish a line plumb to the soffit. This will ensure a clean, level look. If the line is overly unlevel and not plum to windows and door, make an adjustment to find a starting point that works best overall. From the starter strip chalk line, measure the width of 3 courses of siding plus 2 inches and snap a “check” chalk line. This line will be an easy way to show that the siding is fitting together well and is working its way up the wall level and properly.

When handling steel siding, it’s key to remembering that the material expands and contracts with temperature changes. However, since steel siding panels are fairly stable, it won’t shrink and expand as much as vinyl, wood or other products made with glue and cement—a key benefit of this material. Therefore, it’s always safe to leave a small gap where the siding meets trim or other components. Reference the manufacturer’s recommendations for specific expansion gaps based on the specific climate you’re working in and the product.

Properly Aligning and Securing Siding Panels

Once the starter course is in place, you can begin installing the main siding panels. Many steel siding systems feature interlocking edges or overlapping designs. Align the first panel with the starter course and confirm that it is level and upright.

Fastening steel siding requires significant attention to detail. You can use corrosion-resistant fasteners, such as galvanized or stainless-steel screws or nails that are explicitly designed for steel siding installation. Fastener heads need to be large enough to keep the panels secure but not too large so that they interfere with the interlock of the panels. Hot-dipped galvanized roofing nails are a common choice. The type and length of fastener will depend on the thickness of the siding and the wall substrate. 

Fasten the panels through the designated nailing slots or areas, verifying that the fasteners are driven straight and even with the surface. Avoid over-tightening the fasteners, as this can distort the panel and deter expansion and contraction. Try maintaining uniform spacing between fasteners and follow the manufacturer’s guidelines.

Sill trim, under windows and against the soffit should be installed in conjunction with the pieces of siding that will be cut length-wise to fit. The sill trim may need to be furred out to allow the cut piece of siding to rest against the wall at an angle consistent with the rest of the siding.  The cut piece of siding is then edge-notched and snapped into place.

As you install other panels, ensure that the interlocking edges or overlaps are properly engaged and regularly check that each piece of steel siding is installed horizontally with no tilting. When cutting steel siding, use appropriate tools such as a circular saw, twin cutter, electrical scissors, or tin snips. For Klauer’s residential steel lap siding, you can cut individual panels with tin snips.

Remember, the best tool is the one that suits you and your worksite—not necessarily the one considered ideal for steel siding.

However, avoid using abrasive or dull blades that can generate unnecessary heat and potentially impair the finish. Steel siding has sharp edges, so wear appropriate eye protection and gloves. and cover any exposed skin because potential damage can ensue from flying steel shavings. 

Trimming and Final Touches

Install trim pieces according to the manufacturer’s instructions, warranting proper overlap and secure fasteners. Numerous trim options are available, including J-channels, corner posts, fascia, and soffit; J-channels are best suited for windows.

At the end, clean the siding with a mild detergent and water to remove any dirt, debris, scuff marks and more.

Experience the Durability of Steel Siding

Installing steel siding is a skill that combines attention to detail with an understanding of the material and best construction practices. By adhering to these guidelines, you can guarantee a steel siding installation that not only elevates the beauty of a building or home but also provides reliable protection against the elements up to 50 years or more.

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Want to Learn More?

For more details on steel siding installation, refer to the illustrated installation manual provided by Klauer Manufacturing, which understands that the enduring strength of steel, paired with careful installation techniques, stands as a testament to quality craftsmanship and a commitment to long-term value. Visit www.klauer.com.