Metal siding, made from aluminum or steel, is a durable, low- maintenance, and fire-resistant house cladding that has been used on homes since the 1940s. It grew significantly in popularity in the 1980s, when the quality and look gained a new sophistication with embossing and coatings realistically simulating wood.

But aluminum and steel siding have negative traits, too. They are energy-intensive to manufacture, the metals are not a renewable resource (though some can be recycled), and the products often require shipping.

This section of HomeTips takes a closer look at the details of buying, installing, and caring for metal sidings.