A building that features metal siding on ICF walls is in an excellent position to provide long-lasting durability, structural stability, and weather protection. ICF walls on their own are already a solid construction solution, but the addition of metal siding on ICF walls can take the overall performance up a notch. And if you think metal siding only comes looking like a metal building, think again.
This guide provides practical information about how to install metal siding on ICF walls, what benefits can be expected, and where to find reliable products to get the job done right.
Building with ICF Walls
Working with ICF walls can be daunting if you’re not familiar with this construction type. Unfortunately, some builders still don’t know about all the siding options available for outfitting ICF walls, simply because they don’t realize that it’s compatible with a wide variety of materials.
ICF – which stands for insulated concrete form – is an innovative building system made up of expanded polystyrene (EPS) blocks and webbing. It can be used on wood-framed or steel-framed buildings, and it provides a solid substrate that’s great for finishing off with an attractive exterior style, like metal. Built for better durability and lower maintenance, structures with ICF walls are popular in coastal regions, hurricane zones, and regions where the risk of natural disasters is present.
Sheet panel, veneers, vinyl, fiber cement, and steel siding are some of the exterior choices that can be used to finish ICF walls. While ICF walls are versatile, it’s strongly recommended to select a more durable siding material for the exterior, since longevity is one of the advantages of an ICF wall system. Choosing a standard siding choice, like vinyl, can defeat the purpose of building a more durable structure to begin with. For that reason, metal siding on ICF walls is an obvious choice.
Performance Benefits of Metal Siding on ICF Walls
Installing metal siding on ICF walls makes the most sense because the two materials both excel at durability and longevity, which sets the structure up for long-term success on multiple levels. Metal siding eliminates a lot of the flammability concerns that are associated with other exterior materials like vinyl and wood. It also provides better resistance to surface damage like dents and dings. Pests and wildlife aren’t attracted to metal siding the way they are with wood and other malleable siding materials, too.
Plus, metal siding is better suited to stand up to the elements and resist deterioration. Wood and vinyl can crack, fade, peel, and warp over time, but metal siding doesn’t have those same weather-provoked issues. Metal siding on ICF walls can offer better value overall, because – like ICF – it’s simply built to last.
Stylistic Advantages of Metal Siding
Another advantage of installing metal siding on ICF walls is that it looks great. Used for both commercial and residential properties, metal siding can imitate classic lap, real wood logs, stucco, smooth architectural panels, and other traditional siding styles with exceptional design quality. As a maintenance-free option, metal siding provides an easy way to create an attractive exterior – and keep it – without enduring endless repairs and touch-ups.
Moisture Barriers on ICF Walls
Most ICF walls are classified as moisture-resistant barriers already, but builders may want to provide an extra layer of protection, depending on the siding selected. The good news is that high-quality steel siding from TruLog is built with a corrosion-resistant core and galvanizing alloy, and there are no moisture concerns that are common with other types of exterior siding materials.
Sheathing is recommended for any ICF wall products that aren’t listed as weather-resistant. Regardless of whether the ICF wall product is advertised as moisture-resistant or not, flashing is still recommended for windows and doors. Standard construction techniques and best practices for weatherproofing apply when installing the flashing to metal siding on ICF walls.
Installation Technique for Steel Siding on ICF Walls
In most situations, builders will find that installing metal siding on ICF walls is just like installing siding on any other wall system. Log-style panels from TruLog come in 12 foot lengths and cover 9 inches high on the wall, so installers can cover a lot of ground quickly. Board and batten comes with a 9.25 inch width and several length options (8, 9, 10 and 12 feet) for convenience. The steel lap siding also comes in a large panel size (9.25 inches by 12 feet) to provide a seamless look that gets the job done quickly.
Another advantage of installing TruLog metal siding on ICF walls is that the lock-in panel design and built-in nail strip make it simple to tell when the panel is in place and lined up correctly. This also contributes to faster installation times. The straightforward design of metal siding is something everyone can benefit from.
Find the Best Steel Siding with TruLog
TruLog offers an abundance of attractive steel siding styles that can add beauty and strength to any structure. Built for durability and low maintenance, these products are an excellent choice for outfitting metal siding on ICF walls. Whether board and batten, lap, or even steel log siding, contact TruLog today to explore the options!
