Horizontal Metal Siding Pros And Cons

Horizontal Siding Advantages

Horizontal Metal Siding Is More Attractive

The look of your siding is a personal preference, however, horizontal siding is overall considered to be the more attractive way to install metal siding.

Horizontal Siding Has A More Traditional Look

Since horizontal metal siding is generally thought to be the preferred look, this makes horizontal metal siding more traditional, or common.

Horizontal Siding Disadvantages

Horizontal Metal Siding Is Less Weathertight

Horizontal metal siding is less resistant to water simply due to its orientation. The water cannot run off horizontal siding easily like it can with vertical  and can seep through the siding causing water damage issues.

Horizontal Siding Is Harder To Clean

Horizontal metal siding has more maintenance involved when it comes to cleaning. While vertical siding can be quickly power washed or rinsed off with a hose, extra care must be paid to horizontal siding. You want to prevent water penetrating between the horizontal slats as this will cause water damage issues such as mold and mildew.

Vertical Siding – R Panel in Copper Penny

Vertical Metal Siding Pros And Cons

Vertical Siding Advantages

Vertical Metal Siding Has Greater Weathertightness

When metal siding is installed vertically, it is more durable than horizontal as it’s more resistant to water damage. The water will not get caught on the siding and will just run off.

Vertical Siding Has Easier Maintenance

Metal siding is already known as being a low maintenance material, but a vertical installation makes that maintenance even easier. Vertical siding does not get as dirty and is easier to clean compared to horizontal siding.

When the panels are vertical, dirt and debris doesn’t accumulate on them as easily. When the panels do need to be cleaned, simply power wash the siding and the dirt will run down and rinse right off.

Vertical Metal Siding Offers A Unique Look

Choosing between vertical or horizontal siding solely based on their aesthetics is a personal preference based on which you think looks nicer. However, we can tell you that horizontal siding is more traditional and much more commonly used. If you are looking for a unique look that will stand out, consider vertical siding.

Vertical Siding Disadvantages

Vertical Metal Siding Is A Less Popular Aesthetic

What is a pro to some is a con to others. The look of vertical siding is generally less preferred than horizontal and will not be seen as often.

Vertical Siding Is Less Traditional

Since vertical metal siding is used less, it has an appearance that is out of the ordinary and may not blend as well with certain design styles.

Deciding Whether Horizontal Or Vertical Siding Is Right For Your Installation

As we mentioned earlier, deciding on vertical or horizontal orientation for your metal panel installation depends on visual preference when you’re just focused on aesthetics. However, when taking the other factors into consideration, we recommend the below.

Vertical siding for:

• Less maintenance and easier cleaning
• Climates where maximum durability is needed
• A more unique look

Horizontal siding for:

• A more traditional look

Now that we’ve gone over the differences, you can now look into the different siding profiles that Western States Metal Roofing offers.