Guide to Aluminum Siding

Aluminum siding is a traditional external covering material that came into use shortly after World War II. The originator of aluminum siding noticed how well it accepted paint while painting planes during the war. When he left the service, he developed the first set of interlocking aluminum siding for residential homes. Since then, it grew into great popularity due to its style and how well it could take abuse. Though vinyl and wood siding are both popular choices as well; aluminum has been a mainstay in the external cladding industry and likely will be for some time.

The qualities that allowed aluminum siding to grow and prosper are the same qualities that still make it a popular choice today. The following guide is designed to acquaint you with various aspects of aluminum siding and things you should know. The shopping process is much the same as with other external claddings though there are particular circumstances to take stock of.

Choosing Your Aluminum Siding

The shopping process for aluminum siding is going to require some decision making on your part. There are many different styles that will be available from numerous manufacturers. Many of those manufacturers will have standard panel offerings that can include prints of wood grain to give your siding a natural look. Others will be able to offer different types and styles of trim to create a unique look. Some manufacturers will even custom make trim pieces after a consultation to flesh out a style you have in mind for your home.

There are some pitfalls to avoid with your aluminum siding choices though. If you are interested in a particular color or style, ask if they can provide pictures of that siding on another home. Chances are very good that the siding will look much different than what you had envisioned when it is mounted on your house. Avoid outlandish styles for your home siding. You could decrease your home's curb appeal which can cost you if you need to sell further down the road.

Be sure to inquire with your city or local homeowners association to find out if there are any restrictions or regulations you need to follow for your siding upgrade. This is especially important in historic neighborhoods where they attempt to preserve a certain look or feel.

Aluminum siding colors and styles are incredibly varied. If you cannot find something that interests you with one manufacturer; do not hesitate to check another.

Pricing Your Aluminum Siding

Aluminum siding prices are governed by a number of different factors. The building material industry is one that is very easily influenced by outside and environmental circumstances. A good example of this is the drastic increase in prices that occurs after a particularly severe hurricane or flood season. Materials such as siding, drywall, shingles, and plywood can triple or quadruple in price.

It is for this reason that an aluminum siding estimate becomes all the more important. A written, itemized quote will give you a solid number from which to estimate your total project cost. Be certain you understand what is and is not included in the quote and the service you will be receiving. If you have old siding, it will need to be removed and disposed of. It is prudent to find out if the installers will be taking care of removal and disposal or if you will need to address the matter yourself. It will add to the final cost of the project.

Always get multiple quotes for your project. Different manufacturers and installers may be able to do things for different prices for you.

The Service Surrounding Aluminum Siding

One of the first things you will need to do is touch bases with aluminum siding manufacturers or dealers to find the style and color of siding you like and get a quote on the job. Prices may vary between the different entities due to production processes or shipping for the final product. Many of siding manufacturers have been in business for decades, some pushing upwards of a century. They are well versed in providing their particular product and will be able to provide you with the information you need.

Once you find the right dealer or manufacturer; you will need to get aluminum siding installation squared away. The easiest way to do this is to ask the manufacturer or dealer if they have any local contractor recommendations. Most of these companies have licensing programs where they train contractors on how to install and service their product. If you like, you can go a step further and ask the contractor if he has any references of jobs he's done. That way you can double check the quality of the contractor's work and how happy his former customers were with his service.

There may come a time when aluminum siding repair is necessary. The good news is, the nature of the siding makes it relatively simple to replace entire panels when the need arises. It might be a bit more difficult to do without the proper tools to perform the job. A special detachment tool is available for aluminum siding that lets a person remove the panels without scratching or damaging them. It is for this reason that it might be best to rely on professional service should a panel need replacing. If any custom trim work needs replacing, one might find that they need a hand brake which is used for precise bending without damaging the aluminum.

Upkeep and the Long Run

Aluminum siding is a product that is built to last with a minimum amount of maintenance. Typically, one will only need to spray off the panels about once a year to prevent any real build up. Though aluminum does not rust, it will oxidize. Oxidization can be treated with a solution that is rubbed into the area. Great care should be taken through the application because it can cause the metal to pit.

Though vinyl is steadily pulling ahead as the most popular exterior cladding, aluminum siding has worked stalwartly for decades. The purchase of aluminum siding for your home can be a great way to add value, increase resale appeal, and protect it for many years in the future.