Crafted using heavy-gauge steel and durable state-of-the-art coatings, steel siding retains its beauty and offers long-lasting, low-maintenance performance. Thanks to its superior durability, steel siding can last up to 50 years or more. In some cases, steel siding is backed by a limited lifetime warranty that covers normal weather wear and tear, such as cracks, blisters, and flaking, as well as hail protection. Available in a range of siding profiles and an extensive array of colors, steel siding comes in styles for both rural and urban settings. Rich coating finishes and wood-grained enhancements can deliver the warmth and feel that is popular with today’s homeowners.
Steel siding does have a higher upfront cost than vinyl siding, which is one of the least expensive options available. However, it’s estimated that vinyl siding should be replaced every fifteen, years, and it’s not as resistant to weather damage as steel siding. The higher cost of steel siding pays off in longevity and home protection.
Sometimes “steel siding” is used interchangeably with “metal siding,” but there are multiple types of metal siding: steel, aluminum, corrugated metal, box rib metal siding and more. Aluminum and steel are the most popular types of metal siding. Steel siding is more durable than aluminum siding and is also recyclable, making it one of the most environmentally friendly options on the market.
Installation at a Glance
If you’re a contractor who is new to steel siding, you’ll find that installing lap-style steel siding is similar to installing vinyl siding. The horizontal panels start at the bottom of the walls and interlock at the top and bottom as you proceed with the installation. The panels are fastened to the building envelope through a nailing flange along the top.
Make sure you store the steel siding correctly, use the right equipment, and know your processes before you begin. The product should be stored flat to protect everyone from sharp edges. Always lift pieces rather than slide them to prevent scratching.
You should have tools such as a circular saw, twin cutter, electrical scissors, tin snips and more depending on your product. Follow your manufacturer’s manual for the best results.
For Klauer Residential Steel Lap Siding, individual panels can be cut with tin snips. Start by drawing a line across the panel using a square. Begin cutting at the top lock first and continue toward the bottom of the panel. Break the panel across the butt edge and snip through the bottom lock.
Use a screwdriver to reopen the lock, which may become flattened by tin snips. Aviation shears are sometimes used to cut the top and bottom locks, and a utility knife can score and break the face of the panel. For straight cuts, the best choice is duckbill snips.
If you foresee yourself cutting steel siding often, a special siding-cutter machine could be a great investment. Using a siding cutter or “guillotine-type” device to cut a vertical right angle is the best method for making straight cuts without damaging the galvanized coating.
Remember to wear suitable eye protection and protect exposed skin.
You can learn more about steel siding at www.klauer.com.
All photos © Klauer Manufacturing Co.