What is Steel Siding?
Steel siding refers to a wide range of building cladding constructed from steel, an iron alloy with a small amount of carbon. Steel has traditionally been an unpopular option for residential siding due to its simple appearance. Steel has long been used as a siding material for industrial and commercial buildings due to its reliability and lack of necessary maintenance.
What are the Advantages of metal siding?
For the following factors, metal siding has started to compete with aluminum in the residential siding market:
- Durability and strength. Metal siding can withstand the impact of baseballs and tree branches better than vinyl, wood, brick, and aluminum siding. Metal is preferred in areas vulnerable to severe weather because of its resistance to large hailstones, windblown debris, and extreme cold. Metal siding is also resistant to brittleness as it ages.;
- There was very little upkeep needed. Since the majority of accumulated dirt and debris is washed away by rain, metal siding needs relatively little maintenance. When extra strength is needed, a garden hose can be used, and metal is strong enough to withstand the force of a pressure washer.
- Resistance to insects and decay. Metal siding is inorganic and decay-resistant. Metal is not attractive to insects or rats, and they cannot penetrate it.
- The ability to withstand fire. Metal siding will not catch fire or burn, and it will not melt under normal conditions. Metal has a melting point of about 2,500° F (1,370° C), making it impossible to melt in a house fire, while aluminum has a melting point of 1,220° F (660° C), making it susceptible to fire. As a result, even if the barbecue gets too close to the house’s metal siding, the occupants are likely to be safe.
- Retention of colour. Unlike aluminum siding, which fades over time and develops a chalky texture as a result of weathering, metal will not fade.
How Long Will Steel & Metal Siding Last?
Steel siding will last up to fifty years with proper maintenance. This siding material has the strength of galvanized steel, making it extremely rugged and sturdy. It can withstand any bumps, dents, or other dings.
Is Steel Siding The Best?
Even though steel is more flexible than wood, it cannot be considered a completely durable and long-lasting product in this area of the building. This siding, like all types of steel, can rust, particularly if the finish has been scratched or left unpainted for an extended period.
How Do You Maintain Steel Siding?
Steel siding is relatively simple to clean, but it’s vital to avoid scratching the paint or allowing some substances to dry without rinsing them. Here are some suggestions for cleaning steel siding.
- Scrub Away Dirt. Cleaning the steel siding with scrub brushes is a great idea. Pick up a soft-bristled brush; nylon, in particular, is a great choice that won’t scratch your paint or damage your steel siding in any way. Consider using a brush with a detachable handle so you can extend a long handle to hit high places. Scrub from side to side and up and down to ensure that all dirt is removed. Keep in mind that dirt can stain or even corrode steel over time, so clean your siding regularly.
- Prepare the Cleaning Solution. Steel siding can be washed with a variety of soaps, but laundry detergent is a convenient choice. In a bucket, combine one-third cup of laundry detergent with six gallons of water, and pour the mixture into your pressure washer. Set your pressure washer to the lowest setting and use even strokes to spray your siding. Setting the pressure too high will harm your paint, and the lowest setting should be sufficient, particularly if you clean frequently. Clean your siding until the cold weather arrives, as it can be difficult to do so during the winter.
- Rinse and Let Dry. Any soap or detergent left on your siding can cause corrosion or paint damage, so make sure to use your hose to thoroughly rinse away any cleaning materials. If you have a lot of steel siding, you may want to take a break now and then rinse off the soapy water before moving on to the next segment. Although clean water shouldn’t cause corrosion, cleaning your siding while the sun is still shining can help it dry faster.