When it comes to siding, homeowners have several options. If you’re trying to decide between metal vs. vinyl siding, you’re not alone. Thousands of homeowners face a similar choice in siding materials when looking to build a new property or remodel an existing home.
Here, we’ll compare metal vs. vinyl siding to help you determine the best option for your specific needs. We’ll cover everything from durability and affordability to curb appeal and maintenance — and crown a clear winner.
Metal vs. Vinyl Siding: A Side-By-Side Comparison
While both metal and vinyl siding have some things in common, there are clear differences that make steel a better choice. Read on to learn more about metal vs. vinyl siding and see where each material excels, or falls short.
Available Styles and Types
Both vinyl and metal siding come in different colors and styles, including board and batten, lap, and wood-grain. The two siding options also feature different thicknesses for structural integrity as well as easy-to-install designs, such as tongue-and-groove.
In addition, different types of metal siding are available, including galvanized or painted steel, zinc, copper, and aluminum siding. Some metals feature special coatings for added protection or color choices.
Metal siding is quick to install, typically costs less than other siding installs, and no nailheads are exposed — creating a seamless look that’s visually pleasing.
The Verdict: Both metal and vinyl siding offer a variety of style options, but if you’re looking for a natural wood-grain look (without the upkeep of actual wood), steel is better choice.
Cost
When it comes to choosing your home’s exterior, these two types of siding come with different price points.
In general, vinyl siding is one of the most affordable options, with some as low as $2 per square foot. Premium versions, such as stone-look vinyl siding can run as high as $10 per square foot.
In comparison, metal siding costs anywhere from $1 per square foot for ultra-affordable tin siding to $35 per square foot for premium copper siding.
TruLog’s steel lap siding starts at $4.25 per square foot, and the woodgrain steel log siding costs up to $8.50 per square foot for premium color options.
While vinyl siding may seem more affordable initially, it can cost homeowners more in the long term due to maintenance costs, especially if you choose one of the lowest-cost products.
Plus, steel siding isn’t quite as expensive as it once was, with many affordable and midrange price points. It requires less maintenance and upkeep since it’s more durable, meaning it’s less likely to fade, crack, or need to be replaced — making it more cost-effective.
The Verdict: Steel provides the right balance of affordability and quality.
Durability
When it comes to durability, there are multiple factors to consider, including the gauge of the material, fire-resistance, weather and water resistance, and lifespan.
Steel siding comes in different gauges, with a lower gauge number indicating the material is thicker and more durable. Vinyl siding also has varying gauges up to 55 mils but is less resistant to damage and severe weather compared to steel.
Steel siding is fire-resistant and will not warp when exposed to heat sources, while vinyl siding is combustible and can melt with high heat.
Steel siding can stand up to severe weather, such as wind storms and hurricanes. It’s also naturally mold and mildew-resistant. Vinyl is more likely to get damaged during storms, and it may absorb water and expand.
The durability of steel siding means it has a longer lifespan than vinyl and increased versatility for use in a variety of regions and environments. These characteristics make it a popular choice for homeowners who need to consider severe weather, affordability, and ongoing maintenance.
The Verdict: Metal siding is the clear winner against vinyl siding panels when it comes to durability.
Maintenance
Vinyl and steel siding require less maintenance than other options like shingle and wood siding. Both vinyl and steel only require minor upkeep in terms of cleaning.
But heat from the sun and wind can cause damage to vinyl siding over the long term. Unlike steel, vinyl can crack, bend, and fade, leading to increased costs and time to maintain the siding. Metal siding is typically more expensive initially, but you’ll benefit from more savings in the long term when it comes to maintenance.
Environmental Impact
Unlike other options (including fiber cement), vinyl and steel are both recyclable — though to varying degrees.
Steel is the most recycled item on the planet making it easy to give your old steel siding a new life when you’re done with it.
While vinyl is technically also recyclable, you have to take it to a special facility that can process the PVC properly.
The Verdict: Steel siding comes out on top for sustainability.
Energy efficiency
Vinyl siding alone isn’t very energy efficient, but if you’re looking for ways to reduce your energy bills, installing insulated vinyl siding or pairing it with traditional insulation or a house wrap can help.
On the other hand, steel siding creates a thermal barrier, helping to reduce energy costs by deflecting the sun’s rays and keeping the interior cooler. When paired with insulation, steel siding is one of the best energy-efficient options.
The Verdict: Steel siding is more energy efficient than vinyl thanks to its reflective properties.
Resale Value
Vinyl is considered a cheap material and thus will not increase the sales price of your home compared to more premium products on the market.
Conversely, the long lifespan of steel makes it a valuable addition to your home. Potential buyers will not have to replace the siding, allowing you to charge a higher home sale price to account for the quality construction.
The Verdict: Steel siding adds value to your home, while vinyl siding won’t increase your home’s resale price.
FAQs About Metal and Vinyl Siding
Want to learn more about metal vs. vinyl siding? We’ve put together some quick answers to commonly asked questions.
What Is the Difference Between Metal and Vinyl Siding?
The main difference between metal and vinyl siding is the material. Vinyl siding is made mostly of PVC, with additional materials to improve the structure or add color. Metal siding comes in various materials, including aluminum, copper, and steel.
Other key differences: Metal siding is more resistant to the elements and severe weather, and it tends to have a higher resale value due to its curb appeal.
Which Lasts Longer: Steel Siding or Vinyl Siding?
Steel siding typically lasts longer than vinyl siding as it’s more durable. It’s fire-, mold-, and mildew-resistant, unlike vinyl. Also, steel won’t crack or fade like vinyl, making it the better choice for homeowners looking for siding that will last a long time.
Is Metal Siding More Expensive Than Vinyl?
In general, metal siding is more expensive than vinyl initially, but overall costs can be lower due to its better durability and lower maintenance. Today, you can also find several high-quality metal siding options that are comparable in price to mid-range vinyl siding products.
How Does Metal Siding Handle Extreme Weather Conditions?
Metal siding excels in extreme weather conditions. It holds up well in fires, hurricanes, windstorms, and cold climates, helping to protect your home. It won’t distort or melt when exposed to high heat sources, and it doesn’t absorb water, making it ideal in heavy rain. Lower-gauge metal siding is extremely durable and is less likely to get dented or scratched compared to vinyl siding, even in windstorms.
The Winner: Choose High-Quality Steel Siding for Your Home
When it comes to the right siding choice — and making a choice between metal vs. vinyl siding — you have to consider your budget and preferences. TruLog’s steel siding is the best choice for homeowners who want the strength of metal with the natural look of wood, especially compared to traditional vinyl which can crack, fade, or require frequent replacement.
The low-maintenance nature of steel siding improves its affordability, saving you both time and money in the long term since you don’t have to worry as much about repairs or maintenance.
Download our free catalog to browse all available steel siding products. From log and board-and-batten styles that are ideal for a farmhouse design to lap siding that’s well-suited for Victorian and Craftsman builds, you’ll find an option for your home.
