Metal siding panels work well in Maryland. They handle rain, snow, and hot, humid summers.
They last for decades. They do not rot. Bugs cannot eat them. And they need very little care.
But they also have downsides. They cost more than vinyl. They can dent. And they can be loud in heavy rain if they are not installed right.
This guide covers it all. You will learn the types, the cost, the pros and cons, and what to know before you buy.
Quick Answer: Is Metal Siding Worth It?
- Best for: people who plan to stay in their home 15+ years.
- Cost: about $6 to $16 per sq ft for aluminum and steel. Zinc and copper cost more.
- Lifespan: 40 to 50+ years for aluminum and steel. 80 to 100+ years for zinc and copper.
- Downsides: higher cost, dents, and noise if not installed well.
What Are Metal Siding Panels?
Metal siding panels cover the outside walls of your home. They are made from aluminum, steel, zinc, or copper.
They come in many shapes. Some are ribbed. Some are wavy. Some are flat. Some have raised seams.
The way you place them changes the look. Vertical panels make a home look taller and more modern. Horizontal panels look more classic.
Metal does not burn. It does not rot. And it does not attract termites.
Types of Metal Siding Panels
1. Aluminum Siding
Aluminum is light and does not rust. It is easy to paint.
It is a good pick for humid areas. It also works near the Chesapeake Bay, where the air has salt.
But it dents more easily than steel. Thicker panels help.
2. Steel Siding
Steel is stronger than aluminum. It handles hits and hail better.
Look for galvanized or coated steel. The coating fights rust.
Steel is the most popular choice for modern homes.
3. Zinc Siding
Zinc is a high-end metal. It forms a natural coating over time.
It can last 80 to 100 years. It is often used on special areas of a home.
4. Copper Siding
Copper costs the most. It is mostly used for small areas like dormers and bay windows.
Over time, it turns green.
Panel Styles
- Standing seam: raised seams and hidden screws. Clean look. Sheds water well.
- Corrugated: wavy panels. Usually the cheapest.
- Ribbed: ridges with visible screws. Budget friendly and strong.
- Board-and-batten or lap: looks like wood. Lasts like metal.
- Insulated panels: metal with foam behind it. Better for energy and noise.
Hidden Screws vs. Visible Screws
This choice changes both price and performance.
| Feature | Visible Screws | Hidden Screws (Standing Seam) |
|---|---|---|
| Look | Screws show | Clean and smooth |
| Cost | Lower | About 35% to 45% more |
| Weather strength | Good | Better |
| Install | Easier | Takes more work |
Visible screws can get loose over time. Wind and heat change cause this. Check them every few years.
Thickness, Paint, and Finish
Thickness (gauge): A lower gauge number means thicker metal. Thicker metal dents less and stays flatter. It costs more.
Ask your contractor which gauge is in your quote.
Paint type: PVDF paint fades the least. It costs 30% to 40% more than SMP paint.
For a long-term home, PVDF is often worth it. Always check the paint warranty.
Finish options:
- Smooth: clean and modern.
- Wood-grain: looks like wood. Lasts like metal.
- Matte, gloss, or metallic: pick one that matches your roof, windows, and trim.
Benefits of Metal Siding
- Strong: it does not rot or warp. Bugs and birds cannot damage it.
- Low care: wash it once a year. No repainting like wood.
- Fire safe: metal does not burn.
- Saves energy: insulated panels keep more heat inside in winter.
- Many looks: lots of colors, shapes, and finishes.
- Adds value: some estimates say you can get back 80% or more of the cost when you sell. Results depend on your home and area.
- Recyclable: most metal siding can be recycled later.
Downsides of Metal Siding
Metal siding is not right for every home. Here are the real trade-offs.
- Higher cost: it costs more than vinyl. Often more than fiber cement too.
- Dents: hail or a fallen branch can dent thin aluminum. Steel and thicker panels hold up better.
- Noise: rain and hail can sound louder on metal. Insulated panels help.
- Heat movement: metal grows and shrinks with the weather. Bad installation can cause waves or buckling.
- Scratches: a deep scratch can show bare metal. Fix it fast to stop rust.
- Salt air: near water, pick aluminum or well-coated steel. Check the warranty.
- Not a DIY job: cutting and sealing take skill. Hire a pro.
Metal Siding Cost
Cost depends on the metal, the style, the paint, and your home. These are common installed prices. That means material plus labor.
These are national estimates. Your Maryland price can be different.
| Metal Siding Type | Installed Cost per Sq Ft | Lifespan |
|---|---|---|
| Aluminum (corrugated) | $4 to $7 | 40 to 50 years |
| Aluminum (hidden screws) | $6 to $10 | 40 to 50 years |
| Steel (visible screws) | $7 to $12 | 40+ years |
| Steel (hidden screws) | $10 to $16 | 40+ years |
| Zinc | $12 to $19 | 80 to 100 years |
| Copper | $16 to $25+ | 100+ years |
What Changes the Price
- Insulated panels: add about $1 to $2 per sq ft.
- Paint: PVDF costs more than SMP.
- Thickness: thicker metal costs more.
- Style: standing seam, ribbed, or wood-grain can cost 10% to 30% more than basic corrugated.
- Home shape: more corners, windows, and dormers mean more labor.
- Old siding: removing it and fixing the wall adds cost.
Example Totals
These are for a home with about 2,000 sq ft of outside wall.
| Material | Estimated Total |
|---|---|
| Aluminum | $12,000 to $20,000 |
| Steel (visible screws) | $14,000 to $24,000 |
| Steel (hidden screws) | $20,000 to $32,000 |
| Zinc | $25,000 to $37,000 |
| Copper | $33,000 to $51,000 |
Wall area is not the same as floor area. A contractor will measure your real walls. They will skip windows and doors.
Want prices for other siding types? Read our house siding cost guide and siding replacement cost guide.
Metal vs. Vinyl, Fiber Cement, and Wood
| Material | Cost per Sq Ft | Lifespan | Care Needed | Fire Safety |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Metal | $6 to $16 | 40 to 50+ years | Very low | Does not burn |
| Vinyl | $3 to $12 | 20 to 40 years | Low | Can melt in high heat |
| Fiber cement | About $6 to $14 | 30 to 50 years | Medium (repaint) | Very good |
| Wood | About $6 to $15 | 20 to 40 years with care | High (paint, seal) | Can burn |
Vinyl costs the least upfront. Metal usually lasts longer and needs less care. It is also safer in a fire.
Still choosing? Read our guide to house siding options in Maryland. Like the tall look? See our vertical siding guide.
Is Metal Siding Good for Maryland Weather?
Yes. But you need the right metal and a good installer.
- Rain and humidity: metal does not soak up water. But it needs good sealing behind it.
- Snow and cold: metal handles cold well. Installers must leave room for it to grow and shrink.
- Storms and wind: hidden-screw panels hold up better in strong wind.
- Hail: steel and thicker panels dent less.
- Near water: near the Bay, choose aluminum or well-coated steel. Check the warranty.
Permits and HOA Rules in Maryland
Siding work often needs a building permit. Rules change by county and town.
Live in an HOA or a historic area? You may need approval first. This can cover materials and colors.
Check with your local office before you order anything.
A licensed contractor usually handles permits for you. In Maryland, home improvement contractors need an MHIC license. You can check it with the state.
How Metal Siding Is Installed
Good installation makes siding last 50 years. Bad installation can leak in five.
- Check the wall: remove old siding if needed. Fix any damage.
- Add a water barrier: this blocks water and air.
- Seal the gaps: use flashing around windows, doors, and the roofline.
- Attach the panels: use clips, screws, or locking seams. Leave room for heat movement.
- Finish the trim and corners: this keeps water out and looks neat.
- Final check and cleanup.
Our siding contractors install metal panels across Maryland. We can also help with exterior renovation, like roofing, gutters, and painting.
Maintenance Tips
- Wash once a year: use mild soap and a soft brush or hose.
- Check after storms: look for dents and loose panels.
- Check the screws: tighten or replace loose ones.
- Fix scratches: use matching touch-up paint.
- Keep water away: clean gutters. Trim plants near the walls.
How to Pick the Right Metal Siding
- Small budget: aluminum or steel with visible screws.
- Modern look and best weather strength: steel with hidden screws.
- Near water or very humid area: aluminum or coated steel.
- High-end look: zinc or copper.
- Worried about noise: insulated panels.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is metal siding cheaper than vinyl?
Not at first. Vinyl usually costs less upfront. Metal lasts longer and needs less care. Over time, the cost can be close.
Does metal siding dent in hail?
It can. Thin aluminum dents the most. Steel and thicker panels hold up better.
Is metal siding loud in the rain?
It can be louder than other siding. Insulated panels and good installation reduce the noise.
Does metal siding rust in Maryland?
Aluminum does not rust. Coated steel resists rust. But a deep scratch can let rust start. Fix scratches fast.
Can metal siding go over old siding?
Sometimes. It depends on the shape of the old siding and wall. Removing old siding is usually better. It lets you fix hidden damage.
How long does metal siding last?
Aluminum and steel last 40 to 50 years or more. Zinc and copper can last 80 to 100+ years.
Does metal siding add home value?
It can. It improves looks and appeal to buyers. Results depend on your home and area.
Does metal siding need insulation?
Metal does not insulate by itself. Insulated panels or added insulation help with energy and noise.
Get a Free Metal Siding Quote in Maryland
USA Builders and Developers is licensed (MHIC) and insured. We install metal siding across Maryland.
We will measure your home. We will explain your options. Then we will give you a clear written quote.
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