Is Metal or Concrete Log Siding Better?

Your home can take a different and improved look with the addition of wall sidings on its exterior walls. These materials improve the aesthetics of the building and protect it from harsh conditions. But there’s a lot more to sidings, depending on the type you choose.

While wood log sidings are the original wall siding used on building walls, there have been a lot more options to provide home owners with choices. These options are often built to mimic the original wood log siding.

Metal and concrete are popular materials used to manufacture log-look sidings for walls. And despite their wood-like look, they vary in a lot more ways.

The structure and material used in making the siding is the key factor leading to differences among these sidings. If you’re looking to install a siding and split between metal and concrete log sidings, this is the perfect place for you.

This guide will show you what these sidings are, their unique properties and how they differ. All in a bid to make you understand which option is better. Even though, better here may be relative to your needs.

Overview of Metal Log Siding

Sometimes known as steel log sidings, this material is made by pouring steel into cast so it is molded to mimic a wood log siding. Metal is sturdy so a good durability is expected from this siding.

The overall view of a metal siding is its toughness and resistance to fire, rain, snow, and insects. Although high quality steel sidings can be expensive to install initially and despite its toughness, steel is still susceptible to dents.

Key Benefits

Built to last: It easily resists weather, pests, snow, and fire.
Low upkeep: There’s no need for regular painting or sealing.
Cost-effective over time: You save money on maintenance and repairs, so it becomes affordable in the long run.
Versatile style: Works with both modern and rustic home designs.

Drawbacks

Upfront cost: Can be pricier than basic siding options.
Less “woodsy” feel: May not feel as authentic as real logs.
Dent risk: Can get banged up by heavy impacts.
Possible fading: Colors might soften over time in intense sun.

Overview of Concrete Log Siding

Concrete log siding is also a siding made to look like wood but this time the material is different and made from concrete. Typically, a combination of sand, cement, and glass fiber for reinforcement.

It’s crafted to look like real logs, complete with texture and grain, so you enjoy the wood-like feeling with a lot more protection for your home.

Key Benefits

Super durable: Resists rot, termites, and tough weather like a pro.
Energy saver: Its thermal mass helps keep your home’s temperature steady, possibly cutting energy costs.
Customizable look: Stain or finish it to match your vibe, from classic cedar to lighter shades.
Long-lasting: Built to stick around for decades with minimal upkeep.

Drawbacks

Heavy stuff: Needs extra structural support, which can complicate installation.
Pricey setup: Professional installation often costs more due to the weight and complexity.
Limited colors: Fewer shade options compared to materials like metal.
Not as lightweight: Can be a challenge for older homes or weaker foundations.

Comparison Between Metal and Concrete Log Siding

When placed side by side, some things become clear between metal and concrete log sidings. Metal and concrete sidings may all be log siding alternatives but they are far from the same. Varying in various ways from material to style. In this section, we’ll see how these two match up against each other.

Aesthetics

When it comes to the look, metal log siding gives you a sleek, polished vibe. It nails the log look with clean lines and a modern edge, perfect if you want a stylish but rustic look.

With tons of color options, from earthy browns to bold grays, the finish stays sharp for years. Concrete log siding, though, looks more authentic and rugged like wood. Its texture and grain feel closer to real wood.

You can stain it to customize the look, but you’re working with fewer color choices compared to metal. If you want modern flair, metal’s your pick, but if you’re chasing that classic log vibe, concrete takes the crown.

Cost

While they both have high initial cost, metal is slightly more affordable at $5 to $10 per square foot of sliding. For concrete siding, the cost is a lot higher at about $7 to $12 per square foot of sliding. This means the initial installation cost is higher so may not be ideal for people on a strict budget.

They are both excellent long term cost effective options when you consider their lifespan which we’ll see in the next factor.

Durability

Metal and concrete are both extremely durable wood-like sidings that you can use on your exterior walls.

With metal offering up to 40 years of longevity and an ability to easily wade of rainfall, snow, fire, and pest. However it does have the tendency to bend on impact or fade under intense UV rays.

That high durability goes a notch higher when it comes to concrete with a lifespan of up to 50 years and even more resistance to the elements including fire. Concrete offers a lot more durability than metal.

Environmental Impact

Here each option has its strong points with metal sidings made with materials that can be recycled after using it as a siding. However, producing it takes a lot of energy and is not great for the environment.

Even though concrete’s production is also energy-intensive and it’s not as recyclable, its thermal mass can boost your home’s energy efficiency by keeping temperatures stable.

Installation

Installing metal log siding is easier and a lot less labor intensive than concrete. Concrete’s weight alone makes any installation process complex with your property often needing reinforcements for the additional load it will be carrying.

Which is Better?

Metal and concrete feature many similarities as log-look sidings with string durability and resistance from harsh weather conditions among their strong points. Although their structure and build means they have many more different features.

If you’re wondering which one is the better option, you may be getting it all wrong, they all have their strong points and can be the best depending on your needs. And although concrete edges metal sidings in many of the differences, metal is still a great option for people looking for a more modern look and slightly less initial cost.

Concrete on the other hand is the top option for home owners who value a closer wood-like aesthetics, ruggedness, and appeal as it offers a longer lifespan and wider range of protection.

If concrete log siding is on your radar, you’re in luck as top manufacturers like Clear Creek Siding are available to provide your desired choice and guidance throughout the process.