Vinyl Siding versus Metal Siding – Which one should I choose?
Here’s a comparison of vinyl siding vs metal siding (typically aluminum or steel) to help you decide which is better for your home.
Overview - What Are They?
Vinyl Siding
Made from PVC (polyvinyl chloride) plastic
Lightweight, flexible, and very common in Canadian homes
Comes in a wide range of colours and profiles (horizontal lap, shakes, vertical, etc.)
Low cost and low maintenance
Metal Siding
Typically aluminum or galvanized steel
Used for both residential and commercial applications
Available in modern styles (corrugated, panels, board-and-batten) or traditional lap profiles
Often used for its durability, fire resistance, and modern aesthetic
| Feature | Vinyl Siding | Metal Siding (Aluminum or Steel) |
|---|---|---|
| Cost (installed) | Lower | Higher |
| Appearance | Simulates wood; many profiles and colours; can fade over time | Sleek, modern, clean lines; often used in contemporary architecture |
| Durability | Moderate – can crack in cold, warp in heat, fade with UV | Excellent – especially steel; resists impact, won’t warp or crack |
| Weather Resistance | Good in moderate climates; weaker in extreme cold or heat | Excellent in all climates – stands up to wind, snow, hail, and salt |
| Fire Resistance | Poor – vinyl melts or ignites | High – metal is non-combustible; preferred in fire-prone areas |
| Moisture Resistance | Resists rot and mildew | Impervious to moisture, but needs proper flashing to avoid corrosion |
| Insulation (R-value) | Low – around R-0.6 (unless insulated) | Low – metal conducts heat/cold; needs an insulation layer |
| Maintenance | Very low – just wash with hose | Low – occasional washing; may dent, but won’t rot or fade as easily |
| Fade Resistance | Moderate – fades over time, especially dark colours | Better – high-end metal coatings resist UV fade better |
| Lifespan | 20–30 years | 40+years (steel); less for aluminum |
| Environmental Impact | Petroleum-based, not biodegradable, sometimes recycled | Highly recyclable; aluminum often made from recycled content |
| Noise | Quieter | Can be louder in wind/rain unless installed with proper sheathing or insulation |
| Climate Factor | Best Performer |
|---|---|
| Cold Winters | Metal – won’t crack or become brittle like vinyl |
| Heat / Direct Sun | Metal – resists warping and fading better |
| Snow & Ice | Metal – won’t sag under weight |
| Hail / Windstorms | Steel siding is extremely tough; vinyl can crack |
| Salt Air (Coastal) | Aluminum performs well (resists corrosion); steel needs anti-rust coatings |
| Fire Risk | Metal – non-combustible |
| Task | Vinyl Siding | Metal Siding |
|---|---|---|
| Cleaning | Hose down occasionally | Hose or pressure wash occasionally |
| Repainting | Not paintable (unless prepped carefully) | Can be painted, but most have baked-on finishes |
| Damage Repair | Must replace full panels if cracked or warped | May dent (especially aluminum); steel is more resistant |
Summary: Pros & Cons Vinyl versus Wood Siding
Vinyl Siding Pros
Lower cost upfront
Wide range of styles & colours
Very low maintenance
Easy and fast to install
Vinyl Siding Cons
Prone to fading, although some modern vinyl siding has an element of fade resistance
Metal Siding Pros
Extremely durable and long-lasting
Fire-resistant and low maintenance
Modern, upscale appearance
Great for Canadian winters and coastal weather
Metal Siding Cons
Higher upfront cost
May dent (especially aluminum)
Can be noisier in rain/hail without insulation
Limited traditional wood-look profiles
