Preferred Panels

What to Know Before Choosing Metal Siding

School building in Marinette WI before metal siding—existing brick facade shown

Proper Installation Is Key to Performance

Expect a Higher Upfront Cost — with Long-Term Savings

Proper Installation Is Key to Performance

Even the best metal panels can underperform if they’re poorly installed. We ensure every panel is fitted correctly, fastened securely, and sealed properly — which helps prevent leaks, noise, and weather-related damage over time.

Marinette WI school metal cladding: brown flush panels over brick with steel girder support

Panel Style Affects the Final Look

Expect a Higher Upfront Cost — with Long-Term Savings

Proper Installation Is Key to Performance

Metal siding comes in different profiles — like board & batten (clean and classic) or corrugated (more rugged and industrial). The profile you choose will define the style of the building, so think about aesthetics as well as function. Homes often look best with concealed fasteners and smoother profiles.

1.5 inch Standing Seam Metal Roof and Metal Siding
Neenah, Wisconsin

Expect a Higher Upfront Cost — with Long-Term Savings

Metal siding may cost more upfront than vinyl or composite, but it makes up for it in longevity, fewer repairs, and lower maintenance. With a 40-year paint warranty and decades of performance, metal often ends up being the most cost-effective option long-term.

Cidan Shear cutting sheet metal for precise fabrication of metal board and batten siding panels

Know Where Your Panels Come From

Expect a Higher Upfront Cost — with Long-Term Savings

Because we fabricate board & batten siding in-house, we can guarantee quality, consistency, and availability. Other profiles, like corrugated, come from outside suppliers — which can affect pricing, scheduling, or custom options. If timelines or customization are priorities, choosing an in-house panel can make all the difference.

Metal Siding Panels

Corrugated (Exposed Fasteners)

Board and Batten (Concealed Fasteners)

Corrugated panels feature repeating wave or rib patterns for a rugged look — commonly used on barns, sheds, outbuildings, and commercial structures. These panels are secured with exposed fasteners, where screws are driven through the face of the panel and remain visible in uniform rows. We install 12 types of corrugated siding panels from trusted suppliers.

Panel length: Varies by profile and manufacturer
Seam heights: 1" or 1.5"
Finish: Kynar 500® paint system
Color options: 36 standard colors
Installation: Horizontal or vertical; residential, agricultural, or commercial
Fastener style: Exposed (visible) fastener

Board and Batten (Concealed Fasteners)

Board and Batten (Concealed Fastener) metal siding panel. Corner is cut to show the install process

Board and batten metal siding creates a clean, geometric look using alternating wide “boards” and narrow vertical “battens.” This panel style is especially popular for homes, garages and custom buildings. It uses concealed fasteners, meaning no visible screw heads — just uninterrupted lines and crisp panel seams. We fabricate board & batten panels in-house with custom sizing options.

Panel length: Up to 10 feet (fabricated in-house)
Seam heights: Always 1.5"
Finish: Kynar 500® paint system
Color options: 36 standard colors
Installation: Vertical only; residential or light commercial
Fastener style: Concealed (hidden) fastener

Why Choose Metal Siding?

In-House Fabrication = No Middleman

We install a range of metal siding profiles — including board & batten (concealed fastener) and 12 types of corrugated (exposed fastener) — to fit both residential and commercial projects. While we install both, board & batten is fabricated in-house, giving us full control over panel sizing, seam height, and batten spacing.

Because we fabricate board & batten ourselves, we can often offer it at a better value than corrugated options that need to be ordered in. It’s a great fit for homes, garages, and custom builds where clean lines, symmetry, and curb appeal matter. And with no middleman, you get faster turnaround, fewer delays, and more flexibility for unique siding layouts.

✅ 20-Year Workmanship Warranty on installs

✅ 40-Year Paint Warranty on Kynar-coated panels

✅ Resistant to warping, cracking, pests, and moisture

✅ Fire-safe and hail-rated

✅ Long-term color stability with Kynar finish

✅ Easy to clean and low-maintenance

✅ Ideal for storm damage repairs or full replacements

✅ A cleaner, custom look that’s hard to match with stock parts

✅ Lower material costs — no delivery fees, no freight delays

✅ No waiting on suppliers or risking damaged shipments

Contact us today for a free estimate

Compared to vinyl, wood, or composite siding, metal offers better protection, lower maintenance, and a cleaner, longer-lasting appearance. It’s ideal for Wisconsin’s weather — wind, hail, snow, and heat — and looks just as good on residential builds as it does on farm and commercial buildings. Preferred Panels fabricates board & batten steel siding for contractors, DIYers, and our own installation projects.

Get in touch with us today to schedule a free estimate for your siding project. Our team of experts will assess your needs and provide a detailed quote for materials or full installation.

Whether you're a contractor or tackling your first DIY project, we’re responsive, detail-focused, and ready to guide you through siding profiles, panel specs, colors, and timelines — even urgent needs like storm damage repairs or replacements.

Request a Free Estimate

Metal vs Vinyl Siding: Why Choose Steel?

Vinyl siding is a common option for residential homes — but steel offers performance, durability, and value that vinyl simply can’t match. Here’s how metal siding (especially board & batten) outperforms vinyl in every major category:

Flush metal panels, Mansard Brown, over brick with vapor barrier—school in Marinette, WI

Long-Term Durability

Steel siding resists warping, cracking, rot, and insect damage — issues that commonly affect vinyl over time. It doesn’t become brittle in cold weather or soften in extreme heat, making it a reliable choice year-round, especially in Wisconsin’s harsh climate.

Lourdes Academy exterior upgraded with angled Cityscape Gray metal siding panels

Storm & Wind Resistance

Metal siding holds up better in strong winds, heavy rain, hail, and snow. Vinyl panels can lift, rattle, or crack in severe conditions, while properly installed steel panels stay secure. This added durability means fewer repairs and less risk during storm season.

Slate grey, 24 gauge R-panel metal siding installation in Green Bay Wi.

Cleaner Look with Concealed Fasteners

Our board & batten metal siding uses concealed fasteners, which means no visible screws or caps on the face of your home. This creates a smoother, more modern appearance — and fewer places for water or debris to get in.

Corrugated metal siding panels and roof in Regal Blue with snow guards – Wautoma, WI

Heat Reflection & Energy Efficiency

Steel siding reflects more sunlight and absorbs less heat than vinyl. That helps reduce cooling costs in summer and contributes to a more stable indoor temperature. Combined with proper insulation, metal siding can support better energy performance year-round.

Installation services available. Explore our siding results.

Exterior view of a commercial building with multiple bay windows wrapped in black flush panels — Spark Development - Appleton, Wisconsin

Before photo of a commercial building with large bay windows with unfinished exterior surfaces — Spark Development - Appleton, Wisconsin

Almond board and batten metal siding panels and open downspouts installed – Neenah church project — Trinity Lutheran Church - Neenah, Wisconsin

Pole shed roof and siding panels installed with snow guards in Regal Blue – Wautoma, Wisconsin — Wautoma, Wisconsin

Corrugated metal siding panels and roof in Regal Blue with snow guards on pole shed – Wautoma, WI — Wautoma, Wisconsin

Pole shed metal roof and siding installed with snow guards in Regal Blue – Wautoma, Wisconsin — Wautoma, Wisconsin

Regal Blue corrugated panels for siding on new Wautoma, WI pole shed. Snow prevention system install — Wautoma, Wisconsin

Sierra tan Board and Batten Siding installation at Lourdes Academy, Oshkosh, Wisconsin. — Lourdes Academy - Oshkosh, Wisconsin.

Board and Batten Siding at Lourdes Academy - Oshkosh, WI. Custom metal siding panels fabricated. — Lourdes Academy - Oshkosh, Wisconsin.

Board and Batten Siding at Lourdes Academy - Oshkosh, Wisconsin. Sierra tan metal siding panels. — Lourdes Academy - Oshkosh, Wisconsin.

Installation of Board and Batten Siding at school building in Oshkosh, WI. — Lourdes Academy - Oshkosh, Wisconsin.

House wrap installed on the building interior & exterior before metal siding.
Fond du Lac, Wisconsin — Summit Auto - Fond du Lac, Wisconsin

Slate Grey Exposed Fastener Corrugated Metal Panels for interior & exterior
Fond du Lac, Wisconsin — Summit Auto - Fond du Lac, Wisconsin

Fond du Lac, Wisconsin
Slate grey corrugated metal wall panels and metal ceiling panels installed. — Summit Auto - Fond du Lac, Wisconsin

Summit Auto Fond du Lac, Wisconsin
Interior wall panels and ceiling panels. Corrugated sheet metal — Summit Auto - Fond du Lac, Wisconsin

Fond du Lac, Wisconsin
Interior office installed with corrugated, concealed fastener siding panels — Summit Auto - Fond du Lac, Wisconsin

Metal Siding FAQ

What are the benefits of metal siding?

Metal siding is durable, low maintenance, fire resistant, and performs well in extreme weather. It resists rot, insects, and impact damage, and can be installed as part of an energy-efficient wall system when properly detailed and insulated. Metal vs. Vinyl Siding: Which Is Better for Wisconsin Winters?

What are the disadvantages of metal siding?

Metal siding is durable and long-lasting, but flat panels can naturally show waviness or “oil canning,” which is purely visual and not a defect. Over time, caulking around roof penetrations like chimneys or skylights may need to be replaced by a professional every 10–15 years to maintain a watertight seal.

How long does metal siding last?

Metal siding typically lasts 40–60 years or longer when properly installed and maintained. It outlasts many traditional siding materials because it does not rot, warp, or attract insects.

Does metal siding make a house hotter?

No. Metal siding does not significantly increase interior temperatures. Heat performance depends on insulation, ventilation, and wall assembly design rather than the exterior cladding material itself.

Is metal siding fire resistant?

Yes. Metal siding is noncombustible and does not ignite or contribute fuel to a fire, making it a fire-resistant exterior cladding option.

Can metal siding be painted or cleaned?

Yes. Metal siding can be repainted and cleaned when needed. Repainting requires proper surface preparation and coatings designed for metal, while routine cleaning can be done with mild detergent and low-pressure water.

What is oil canning, and does it affect performance?

Oil canning is a visual waviness that can appear in flat metal panels. It does not affect the structural integrity or weather resistance of metal siding and is considered an aesthetic characteristic rather than a defect.

Can metal siding be installed horizontally or vertically?

Yes. Most metal siding profiles can be installed either horizontally or vertically depending on your design preference and the manufacturer’s guidelines. Vertical installation helps shed water more efficiently, while horizontal installation can create a different visual style. Professional installation is recommended to ensure proper fastening and alignment.

Metal Siding

What to Know Before Choosing Metal Siding

Proper Installation Is Key to Performance

Expect a Higher Upfront Cost — with Long-Term Savings

Proper Installation Is Key to Performance

Panel Style Affects the Final Look

Expect a Higher Upfront Cost — with Long-Term Savings

Proper Installation Is Key to Performance

Expect a Higher Upfront Cost — with Long-Term Savings

Expect a Higher Upfront Cost — with Long-Term Savings

Expect a Higher Upfront Cost — with Long-Term Savings

Know Where Your Panels Come From

Expect a Higher Upfront Cost — with Long-Term Savings

Expect a Higher Upfront Cost — with Long-Term Savings

Metal Siding Panels

Corrugated (Exposed Fasteners)

Board and Batten (Concealed Fasteners)

Board and Batten (Concealed Fasteners)

Board and Batten (Concealed Fasteners)

Board and Batten (Concealed Fasteners)

Board and Batten (Concealed Fasteners)

Why Choose Metal Siding?

In-House Fabrication = No Middleman

Contact us today for a free estimate

Metal vs Vinyl Siding: Why Choose Steel?

Long-Term Durability

Storm & Wind Resistance

Cleaner Look with Concealed Fasteners

Heat Reflection & Energy Efficiency

Installation services available. Explore our siding results.

Roofing Trim Products

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Metal Siding FAQ

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