The Durability of Aluminum Siding
Longevity Factors To Consider
UNITED HOME EXPERTS | MARCH 25, 2014
When it comes to home construction, one of the major factors to consider is what kind of siding is used on the outside of the home. There are many options available on the market today, so it’s wise to look at all the advantages and disadvantages of the various types and compare them to come up with the best solution according to a particular homeowner’s needs. One of the forerunners in the siding market is aluminum siding.
This type of siding was first marketed to homeowners and to the construction world over 50 years ago. Back then, it was said to be a long-lasting, maintenance-free alternative to the main types of siding used then, which were mostly clapboard or wooden shingles.
The major factors that set aluminum apart from its competitors are its ability to withstand the effects of all different kinds of harsh weather, its resistance to corrosion and rotting, and the fact that it is 100 percent water resistant.
In comparison to other metals, aluminum is relatively lightweight, but this does not affect its strength. When used as siding on houses, aluminum can withstand even the strongest of winds. It will not be blown off like some other types of siding – mostly notably, wood shingles.
Snow and ice won’t even harm aluminum. In fact, aluminum seems to do better in colder temperatures than it does in warm climates. That’s why it is even used as siding for research and weather stations in Alaska. Likewise, the cold, snowy winters in the Northeast are no match for aluminum siding.
Also unlike wood, aluminum siding will not break off in little pieces that leave homeowners with random bare spots on their homes. Furthermore, aluminum is somewhat resistant to corrosion. When it comes in contact with water, a thin layer of oxide is developed between the surface of the metal and the water that is good at slowing any negative reaction from occurring.
Another capability of aluminum that never diminishes is its ability to repel water. The same oxidative capacity that slows the metal from rusting when it comes into contact with water also sends the water running off of itself without giving it the chance to seep in through the siding and damage the inside structure of the house. Aluminum that remains undamaged will stay completely waterproof, and any home with this type of siding will also stay waterproofed, if damaged then you can expect corrosion and rust to occur.
The paint that is used on the siding to make it look a little less like metal is what may flake and chip away, but with a little effort this can be repainted and only needs to be done about every five to seven years, as long as the siding is hosed down regularly to loosen off any dirt and debris that might accumulate and contribute to the breakdown of the paint.
This type of siding is an alternative to the many other types of siding available, but not highly recommended by our team because of the better options available. Homeowners considering aluminum for their homes can contact the United Home Experts to see which type of siding would be right for their homes. There are far superior siding options for homeowners and we would be glad to walk you through the best affordable options.
Our promise is to do everything we can to help you love your home or building again. Don’t settle for less!
