Corrugated metal siding is a popular choice for residential, commercial, and industrial properties due to its durability and modern look. This article explores corrugated metal siding costs, breaking down prices by material, installation, home size, location, and more. Use the summary table below for a quick overview before diving into specific details.
| Cost Factor | Average Range (Per Sq Ft) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Material Only | $1.50 – $5.00 | Varies by finish, gauge, brand |
| Installation (Labor) | $2.00 – $7.00 | Location, difficulty, contractor rates |
| Total Installed (Residential) | $4.00 – $12.00 | National average; custom jobs may vary |
| Total for Average Home (1,500 sq ft) | $6,000 – $18,000 | Includes labor and materials |
| Removal of Existing Siding | $1.00 – $3.00 | Per sq ft; may be additional |
What Is Corrugated Metal Siding?
Corrugated metal siding consists of steel or aluminum panels shaped into a wavy (corrugated) profile. This form adds strength, improves water runoff, and provides a unique, industrial-inspired design that is increasingly popular on homes, barns, and commercial buildings.
Panels typically come galvanized, painted, or coated for rust and weather resistance. Common gauges range from 22 (thickest) to 29 (thinner and less expensive). The most frequently used panels are 26 and 29 gauge for residential projects. Longevity, weather protection, and low maintenance are signature benefits, but costs can vary considerably.
Average Corrugated Metal Siding Cost Per Square Foot
The average homeowner in the United States pays $1.50 to $5.00 per square foot for materials and an additional $2.00 to $7.00 per square foot for professional installation. Therefore, the total installed cost typically falls between $4.00 and $12.00 per square foot.
The wide price range reflects differences in material type, metal gauge, paint or coatings, panel width, regional labor rates, and job difficulty.
Cost By Material Type
| Material | Average Cost (Per Sq Ft) | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Galvanized Steel | $1.50 – $3.50 | Most common; rust resistant, durable |
| Aluminum | $2.00 – $5.00 | Lighter, corrosion-proof, less strength |
| Corten Steel | $3.00 – $8.00 | “Weathered” appearance, premium cost |
| Painted/Coated Steel | $2.50 – $6.00 | Pre-finished for added protection |
| Copper/Zinc | $9.00 – $20.00+ | Architectural, specialty jobs |
Galvanized and painted steel are the most cost-effective and widely used options for siding residential homes.
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Cost By Thickness and Gauge
The thickness of the metal panel significantly affects both strength and price. Gauge numbers get lower as thickness increases, so 22 gauge is thicker than 29 gauge.
| Gauge | Approx. Thickness (Inches) | Average Cost (Per Sq Ft) |
|---|---|---|
| 29 | 0.014 – 0.016 | $1.50 – $2.75 |
| 26 | 0.017 – 0.020 | $2.00 – $4.00 |
| 24 | 0.022 – 0.026 | $2.50 – $5.00 |
| 22 | 0.028 – 0.032 | $3.50 – $7.00 |
Thicker panels last longer and resist damage but cost more up front. Most homes use 26 or 29 gauge to balance durability and affordability.
Installation Costs and Labor
Professional installation is typically required for best performance and warranty compliance. The average installation labor runs $2.00 to $7.00 per square foot, depending on region, company, and job complexity.
- Simple installs (rectangular buildings, single-story) — on the lower end
- Difficult installs (multi-story, lots of angles, custom details) — on the higher end
- Urban areas with expensive labor — higher costs
- Rural areas — potentially more affordable
Installation usually includes weatherproofing, trim pieces, and disposal of old materials if required. Always confirm with your contractor what is included in their quote.
DIY Corrugated Metal Siding Cost
For those with construction skills, DIY installation can save substantially on labor but comes with challenges:
- Material cost only (plus fasteners, trim): $1.50 – $6.00 per sq ft
- Additional tool rental or purchase costs
- Time for installation (can be labor-intensive)
- No professional warranty or assurance
Factor in the value of your time and risk before deciding on DIY.
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Cost By Home/Building Size
The overall project cost correlates directly to the exterior wall area (typically calculated in square feet). The table below illustrates average installed prices for various home sizes:
| Home Size | Wall Area (Sq Ft) | Est. Total Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Small Home (1,000 sq ft) | 900 – 1,200 | $3,600 – $14,400 |
| Average Home (1,500 sq ft) | 1,300 – 1,800 | $5,200 – $21,600 |
| Large Home (2,500 sq ft) | 2,200 – 3,200 | $8,800 – $38,400 |
| Small Barn/Garage | 500 – 800 | $2,000 – $9,600 |
Complex designs, extra stories, or custom accents increase total costs compared to standard single-story, rectangular homes.
Cost by U.S. Region and Location
Corrugated metal siding prices vary by geography due to local supplier markups and labor rates. Expect higher costs in major metropolitan areas and coastal states due to shipping/freight and elevated wages.
| Region | Material & Install Cost (Per Sq Ft) |
|---|---|
| Northeast (NY, NJ, MA) | $6.00 – $13.00 |
| Southeast (FL, GA, NC) | $4.00 – $10.00 |
| Midwest (OH, IL, MI) | $4.00 – $10.00 |
| Southwest (TX, AZ) | $4.50 – $11.00 |
| West Coast (CA, WA, OR) | $6.50 – $15.00 |
| Mountain West (CO, UT, NV) | $5.00 – $12.00 |
Shop locally to save on freight charges, especially on large projects.
Cost Comparison: Corrugated Metal Siding vs. Other Siding Types
| Siding Material | Material Cost (Per Sq Ft) | Total Installed Cost (Per Sq Ft) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Corrugated Metal | $1.50 – $5.00 | $4.00 – $12.00 | Durable, low maintenance |
| Vinyl Siding | $1.00 – $2.50 | $3.00 – $7.00 | Popular, less durable |
| Fiber Cement | $2.00 – $4.00 | $5.00 – $12.00 | Fire-resistant, heavy |
| Wood Lap | $2.50 – $6.00 | $6.00 – $14.00 | High maintenance |
| Stucco | $3.00 – $6.00 | $7.00 – $14.00 | Regional preference |
| Brick Veneer | $5.00 – $10.00 | $10.00 – $20.00 | Premium, long-lasting |
Corrugated metal siding offers a unique blend of durability and aesthetics at a competitive price, especially compared to premium wood and masonry options.
Other Cost Factors
A variety of secondary factors can influence the total cost:
- Removal of old siding: $1.00 – $3.00 per sq ft
- Trim/flashing and accessories: 10% – 20% of total material cost
- Custom colors/textures: Adds $1.00–$3.00 per sq ft
- High wind/hurricane zones: May require special fasteners at added cost
- Scaffolding/lift rental for multi-story: $500 – $3,000+ depending on scope
- Travel/freight for remote sites: Additional charges possible
Always request a detailed written quote breaking down these elements before committing to a contract.
Pros and Cons of Corrugated Metal Siding
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
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How To Reduce Corrugated Metal Siding Costs
- Use standard panel sizes and finishes to avoid custom pricing
- Purchase direct from regional suppliers or building centers
- Bundle with roofing or gutter projects for volume discounts
- Install during off-season for contractors (late fall or early winter)
- Get multiple bids and reference reviews
DIY installation can drastically reduce total costs. However, always weigh the risks and technical requirements before choosing this route.
Long-Term Value and Return on Investment
Corrugated metal siding provides strong return on investment due to its durability and minimal ongoing maintenance. The cost to repair or repaint is low compared to wood or fiber cement. Insurance rates may drop for homes with non-combustible exteriors, offering more savings over the years.
- Avoids the need for frequent repainting or pest treatment
- Higher curb appeal for modern or rustic homes
- High salvage/recycling value at end of life
Consider lifecycle costs, not just upfront expense, when choosing your siding material.
Frequently Asked Questions About Corrugated Metal Siding Costs
Can Corrugated Metal Siding Be Installed Over Existing Siding?
Yes, in many cases it can be installed over sound wood or vinyl siding, which saves the cost of demo and disposal. Your installer will check for rot or damage before proceeding.
Does Corrugated Metal Siding Require Special Insulation?
Metal siding conducts temperature efficiently. Adding a weather barrier and rigid foam insulation underneath is strongly recommended for both energy efficiency and condensation control.
How Long Does It Take To Install Corrugated Metal Siding?
An experienced siding crew can install 1,000–1,500 square feet in 2–4 days on a straightforward single-story house, but large or complex jobs may take longer.
Is Corrugated Metal Siding Noisy During Rain Or Hail?
When properly installed with sheathing, modern corrugated metal siding is only slightly louder than traditional siding. Acoustic insulation and vapor barriers further reduce noise penetration.
Summary Table: Key Cost Perspectives for Corrugated Metal Siding
| Perspective | Key Cost Drivers | Estimated Range | Cost-Saving Tips |
|---|---|---|---|
| Material | Type, gauge, finish/paint, brand | $1.50 – $5.00/sq ft | Standard finishes, bulk purchase |
| Labor | Complexity, stories, region, accessibility | $2.00 – $7.00/sq ft | Simple layouts, local contractors |
| Total Installed | Material + labor + trim | $4.00 – $12.00/sq ft | DIY (if capable), bundle jobs |
| House Size | Total sq ft, height, design | $3,600 – $38,400+/project | Efficient building shapes |
| Removal of Old Siding | Material, local disposal rates | $1.00 – $3.00/sq ft | Install over sound existing siding |
| Location | Freight, local wages | Adds 10% – 30% or more | Use local suppliers |
Choosing corrugated metal siding delivers strong durability, bold aesthetics, and long-term savings—if you properly weigh the upfront investment against these lasting benefits. Compare quotes and factor in all perspectives above for the best results.
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