When you’re deciding on a type of metal siding, there’s a few things to take into consideration such as:
- Appearance
- The climate you’re in
- Maintenance level
- Budget
Before you focus on any of that, you’re going to want to consider the type of application the siding is being used for. On a very surface level, this breaks down into two categories: commercial and residential.
Here at Western States Metal Roofing, we manufacture metal roof and siding panels that are used for both commercial and residential applications. We work directly with contractors and homeowners, depending on the project size, to help them find the right material for their projects.
If you’re wondering if there is a difference between commercial and residential metal siding, the short answer is “no”. Metal siding is not made for a specific project type, just like cars are not made for a specific customer demographic. However when it comes to cars, more people with families will buy a SUV while a single person is more likely to opt for a sporty coupe as it's more suitable for their lifestyle.
The same is true with metal roofing. Each of these project types often gravitate towards a certain type of siding as it is a better fit for that application.
In this article, we will go over the differences when choosing metal as a siding option for commercial and residential applications.
What Are The Differences Between Commercial Metal Siding And Residential Metal Siding?
- Gauge size
- Panel profile type
- Vertical vs. horizontal application
Gauge Size: Commercial Projects Use A Lighter Gauge Metal
Quite often on a commercial project the budget is more important than the aesthetics. The most cost effective panel that we sell is R Panel in a 26 GA, SMP paint finish. The gauge of the panel is heavy enough and the paint system is good enough as it’s not subjected to the same UV exposure as a metal roof.
It’s not that metal siding in a thick gauge can’t be used on a home or commercial building, it’s more so that it’s not necessary. Gauge is less critical in siding than it is in a roof application. It would just be extra money that does not need to be spent. For reference, the metal siding cost for a 24 gauge panel versus 26 gauge panel is 30% to 40% more.
When Should You Use a 24 Gauge Metal Siding Panel?
There are three situations in which it makes sense to upgrade to a heavier gauge metal siding panel.
- Concealed fastener panels - Many of these panels have a wide flat surface and aren’t as strong as an exposed fastener panel. The heavier gauge decreases the chance of oil canning and denting.
- Better paint finish and more color options - A Kynar®/PVDF paint finish is the highest quality paint that’s available. Metal siding panels will have better color retention and more color choices with this type of paint finish. This is more important if you have a bright and vibrant color versus an earth tone or a white.
- Engineering - If the metal siding is attached to metal studs or purlins then it will have to span the distance between supports. This may require the use of a heavier gauge steel.
PVDF paint systems are generally only available in 24 gauge. Therefore, you will have no choice and will have to use a heavier gauge with this paint system.
Panel Profile Type For Commercial vs. Residential Siding
Aside from color, the profile of your metal panel has the greatest impact on the appearance of your siding. There are some panel profiles that have a more commercial or industrial look than others. This is a personal preference, but there are some panels that would not be a good fit for residential when you’re looking for a traditional aesthetic.
Metal panel profiles that are more often used for commercial siding include:
Other panels such as ⅞” corrugated metal siding, flush wall panels and standing seam have a look that can blend well with either residential or commercial projects.
A606 siding installed vertically on a commercial roof
Vertical vs. Horizontal Applications For Metal Siding
When it comes to metal siding installation, the panels can be installed horizontally or vertically. However, as we mentioned earlier, there are applications that are better suited for each type of project.
Vertical siding is seen more on commercial projects than residential while more homeowners prefer horizontal siding. This really comes down to a personal preference on appearance.
Black ore matte residential siding
Metal Siding For Houses
Residences have different requirements for siding than commercial buildings. Below are the metal siding specifications that are more typically used on residences.
Standing seam metal siding in Weathered Metallic
Residential Metal Siding Panel Profiles
Metal panels that have a less industrial look are often preferred for traditional architecture. These profiles include standing seam, flush wall panel, or an exposed fastener panel like ⅞” corrugated.
Residential Metal Siding Colors
Metal siding colors for houses tend to be less vibrant than commercial and usually stay in neutral tones including different shades of gray, beige, and white. You want the color of your metal siding to enhance your curb appeal and complement the surrounding features of your property and not clash with your home's exterior.
Metal Siding For Commercial Buildings
Commercial buildings require more strength and a different aesthetic than residences and this is reflected in the type of siding that is chosen. Below are the metal siding specifications that are more typically used on commercial buildings.
Commercial Metal Siding Gauge
26 gauge siding is standard for commercial buildings, but 24 or 22 is also used, especially in areas that have extreme weather conditions.
Commercial Metal Siding Panel Profiles
Metal panels, such as R Panel and 7.2 Panel, have an industrial look that fits in well with commercial properties. These panels, especially 7.2 Panel, also have premium durability and strength because of their deep ribs which makes them an excellent fit for commercial applications.
Commercial Metal Siding Colors
Metal siding colors for commercial properties have a large variation. While some commercial properties stick to neutral tones similar to residential properties, you can also find buildings that choose a dramatic black or even a bright, vibrant color.
When metal siding is used for a restaurant or company headquarters, the colors generally match the company’s branding. One of the benefits of choosing metal as a siding material, as opposed to brick, wood or stone siding, is that steel panels come in many different colors.
Western States Metal Roofing sells steel siding panels in over 100 different paint colors including those made to look like more expensive metals like zinc and copper, so you do not have to worry about your design options being limited.
Choosing The Right Metal Siding For Your Project
Now that we’ve gone over the differences, you can now look into the different panel profile types for your new siding and the color options that are available. Western States Metal Roofing is proud to manufacture quality metal roofing and metal siding panels offer over one hundred color options including custom colors that you won’t find anywhere else.
Visit our metal color resource center and request a sample of your favorite color today.
