As introduced in our previous report, metal siding is a durable, long-lasting, and stylish siding material. With all the different panel profiles available, choosing the one that’s right for your home, environment, and style can be tricky. From modern Flat panels to classic Corrugated panels, there are a lot of different options to consider. There are multiple factors that come into play when choosing the right metal siding panels for your home or building.
Factors to Consider
Choosing the metal siding panel that’s right for your home takes careful consideration. There are a few factors you need to consider when narrowing down your choices for a panel.
Average Environment & Climate
The siding on your home will experience the exact same weather your roof does, so it’s important to think about what type of environment your home experiences in your area throughout the year. From high-speed winds to heavy amounts of rainfall, you want your siding to look good, but more importantly stand the tests of time against harsh weather conditions.
Desired Aesthetic
Another important factor to consider when choosing your metal siding panel is the style you want to achieve. Whether you’re aiming for a modern look or rustic look, there are different panel profiles out there that can easily help you get the aesthetic you want while still providing you with the durability you need. For example, choosing a Corrugated panel with a brown finish can help you achieve a classic rustic look, while choosing a Flat panel with a dark gray or black finish can give any home a modern exterior.
Choosing the right aesthetic for your metal siding is all about three elements: fastener systems, lines/ribs, and colors/finishes.
Fastener Systems — There are two different types of fastener systems: concealed and exposed fasteners. Concealed fastener systems create a more modern, cleaner look because the hardware used to secure them to your home are hidden. Exposed fastener systems create a more traditional look because the hardware used to secure them is on the outside and able to be seen. Narrowing down the type of system you want can help you make your style choice.
Lines and Ribs — After you’ve narrowed your choices down to either exposed or concealed fasteners, then you want to choose a panel with your desired rib height (or no rib at all) and the lines you want the panels to create. For example, V Groove panels are flush with one another, creating a very modern and clean look of lines. Ultra Batten panels, on the other hand, have a 1.5” rib height, so the lines are not uninterrupted and have a more classic aesthetic.
Colors and Finishes — After you’ve chosen your type of fastener and panel profile based on your desired style, the last element is the color or finish. This element adds depth, character, and visual appeal to your project, transforming it from merely functional to visually captivating. Whether you opt for a bold, vibrant hue to make a statement or a subtle, understated finish for a timeless elegance, the color or finish serves as the ultimate flourish, harmonizing with your design vision and completing the aesthetic narrative.
Inspiring Metal Siding Examples
Here are some architectural designs with metal siding for your reference.