You want to install new shed siding, but you are unsure which material to choose.
There are a lot of factors to consider when it comes to installing new shed siding- from the cost and durability of different materials to how much work is involved in the installation process. It can be hard to decide when there are so many options available.
Shed siding keeps out moisture, pests, and extreme temperatures to protect tools, equipment, and other items.
The material you choose will impact the durability and appearance of your shed. Knowing the shed siding options, facts, and factors to consider about shed siding will help you make the best choice for your shed siding needs.
We identified six must-haves of quality siding and eight factors to consider to help you choose the best choice among the 12 different types of shed siding below. Please read our guide to learn more about each option and find the best fit for your needs.
What Should You Know About Shed Siding?
If you are tired of painting the exterior of your shed every few years, it is time to make a change. Your choice of shed siding can offer various benefits, including a boost in the market value of your property.
Old, outdated siding influences your shed and home’s visual appeal more than simply your shed. It may jeopardize your shed’s structural integrity and safety and your wallet, so choosing the right siding for your shed is best.
Here are some extra benefits of installing the right siding that will save you resources and give you peace of mind.
1. Requires Less Upkeep
Paint peels and fades after a few years of exposure to the light and environment. Choosing a more heat and weather-resistant siding would be best than other outdoor surfaces.
Can it hold its color longer than any other siding material and is more resistant to heat and rain? Unless you are willing to invest in repainting jobs, it can be expensive to repaint your shed every one or two years. Having quality shed siding will save money and time by not having to repaint your shed exterior once or twice a year.
2. Cost-effective
Quality siding is less expensive in terms of maintenance. The lower cost of regular maintenance will save money throughout your shed’s siding life. Some quality siding also comes with a warranty, ensuring that you get the longevity you want.
3. Durable
Outdoor wood surfaces may experience significant damage in extreme weather conditions. Consider siding that can resist heat, rain, cold, and impact better than most other building materials.
If your siding can protect your shed from these extreme weather conditions, it may just be the best choice for a weathertight shed exterior! Even if a strong wind blows debris against your shed, the siding is solid and flexible enough to absorb it without visible damage. Also, see to it that your shed’s siding also repels water.
4. Installation Is Manageable
When you choose to side for your shed, see that the installation requirements are something you can manage.
The majority of siding features an interlocking design, which makes installation easier. Sidings should be simple and quick to install. If you don’t want a lot of hassle, you can hire a pro or choose a siding that is quick to install, lightweight, and agile while remaining durable. Some sidings are also easy to cut and mold around irregularly shaped corners and areas of your shed.
5. Good Architectural Choice
If the siding looks deter you from choosing it for your shed, you no longer have to choose it. There are a variety of styles and colors to create the perfect look for your shed.
6. Siding Color That Lasts
Exterior high-quality siding is resistant to fading, warping, and discoloration. You can install siding without touching it up or painting it to look nice. You will not need to repaint or touch up your siding. It would help if you were sure your siding would continue for many years following installation.
Your installer will be able to restore your home’s damaged area without having you remodel the whole structure. If you use quality siding, a replacement piece can blend in with other parts and preserve its color.
What To Keep In Mind When Choosing Shed Siding
If you are in the market for a new shed, choosing the right type of siding is essential. There are many different types of siding available, and each has its benefits and drawbacks. Before making this decision, you need to consider many factors, such as whether it will resist the environment in which you live and protect an investment put into installation.
Here are eight things to keep in mind when choosing shed siding.
Aesthetics is an essential factor to consider when choosing shed siding. The shed siding you choose will affect the overall look of the shed and can either complement or clash with the rest of your property. There are many different materials and styles to choose from, so it is essential to take some time to browse your options before making a final decision.
Cedar has a natural beauty that can enhance the property’s curb appeal aside from increasing the property value. Exteriors with cedar have a genuine warmth and charm for many years.
Your shed should withstand the elements regardless of where you live. Sheds are often in areas subject to high winds or other harsh weather conditions, so choosing a siding that can withstand these conditions is essential. For instance, if you live in a very humid area, you may want to avoid wood siding that may rot and metal siding, which can corrode. Most high-quality shed siding options are covered by lengthy warranties, assuring that they are durable.
Wood, for example, is a popular choice for shed siding, thanks to its low cost and easy availability. However, wood is not as durable as some other materials and may require regular maintenance to keep it in good condition. On the other hand, metal siding is much more durable and requires little upkeep. It is also fire resistant, making it a good choice for areas at risk of wildfires.
Shed siding must be resistant to water. Water damage may be costly. Thus, the material must overlap and shield all seams from wind-driven moisture. When choosing the side for your shed, water resistance is an essential factor to consider.
By taking water resistance into account when selecting shed siding, you can help extend the life of your shed and keep it looking its best. Shed siding materials such as aluminum or vinyl are suitable because they will not rot or become brittle and cracked when exposed to moisture.
How simple is it going to be? Do you need specific tools/equipment, or do you need a professional to install them?
For example, metal siding is generally more challenging than wood siding. Metal siding needs to be cut to size and fit, whereas you can nail wood siding into place. As a result, metal siding may require professional installation, increasing the overall cost and complexity of installing the shed siding.
When selecting the side for your shed, it is essential to keep your climate in mind.
If you live in an area with a lot of humidity, you will want to avoid materials like wood that can swell and warp in high moisture. Instead, you might opt for high-quality vinyl with a protectant, weather-resistant and low-maintenance.
Similarly, suppose you live in a cold climate. You will want to make sure your shed is well insulated and durable to protect the items you store inside from the cold weather and may prefer steel or fiber cement siding that can stand cold climates.
While shed siding options are often highly durable. Some need more maintenance than others to maintain their appearance and performance. Consider the amount of painting, cleaning, and care you are willing to do before choosing shed siding and include it in your decision.
Some materials, such as high-quality vinyl or steel, are very low-maintenance and will require little effort to keep them looking new. Other materials, such as wood, will require regular painting or staining to protect against the elements. In addition, some sidings are more susceptible to damage than others. For example, wood can be dented easily or scratched, while vinyl is more resistant to damage.
You can use several different materials for shed siding, and each has its advantages and disadvantages when it comes to insulation. The level of insulation is fundamental if you live in an area with extreme temperatures. A higher level of insulation will help keep your shed warm in the winter and cool in the summer.
You may also need to consider what level of insulation the items that you store inside your shed need to have. For example, you have leather materials inside your shed vulnerable to heat and cold damage. If you use metal shed siding, it is an excellent conductor of heat, so it will not insulate as well as other materials unless you add insulation to your shed building material.
Vinyl is by far the most popular material for insulated siding. Also, there are insulated steel, aluminum, or fiber cement. According to some experts, these insulated siding materials might save up to 20% on your annual energy costs.
There is the best siding option for you, no matter your budget. Sheds are a great way to provide storage space for all sorts of items, and they come in different sizes. While some sidings may be more expensive upfront, they may save you money in the long run by lasting longer and requiring less maintenance. However, if you need an affordable choice, make sure that the material is durable before going with it because cheap sheds tend not to last as long as their more expensive counterparts!
Ultimately, deciding which type of shed siding to choose depends on personal preference and budget. For example, natural hardwood siding can be pretty expensive, but it will give your shed a timeless look that will last for years.
Artificial wood or vinyl siding may be better if you have a tight budget. They may not have the same aesthetic appeal as natural hardwood, but these materials are much more affordable.
Contact us for customized recommendations about multiple brands available at various price points and find out about available financing options or which sellers offer lower prices on shed siding materials.
Shed Siding Options To Consider
1. Basic Vinyl Shed Siding
Best for: Places that do not endure intense cold or heat.
Vinyl siding is a popular and affordable choice for homeowners. It is from plastic or synthetic material that you can mold into various shapes and sizes. There are many different styles of vinyl siding to choose from, including vertical and horizontal planks with board and batten profiles, beaded and shake, lap, shingle, scallop, or scale profiles.
It forms a strong, water-resistant, non-rotting, insect-resistant exterior protection for your shed when correctly installed. Simply wipe away dust and debris as needed, and patch with caulk or replace any damaged sections. There are several color hues for vinyl siding, but availability influences pricing.
Basic vinyl siding typically costs $4 to $5 per square foot, excluding labor and materials. The kind of vinyl siding you choose and local vinyl prices influence the costs.
Table 1. Vinyl Siding Type and Cost (Per Square Foot)
| Vinyl Siding Type | Cost (Per Square Foot) |
| Shake | $3 – $10 |
| Clapboard | $1 – $6 |
| Vertical | $3 – $8 |
| Log | $3 – $5 |
| Board and Batten | $2.50 – $8 |
| Stone | $4 – $10 |
| Insulated | $4 – $12 |
| Brick | $4 – $10 |
*R-value is the resistance to heat flow of an insulating substance. The stronger the insulating power, the higher the R-value.
2. T1-11 Shed Siding
Best for: Structures and sheds in a drier climate.
T1-11 plywood is another name for siding plywood. It is a versatile material that may be stained, primed, and painted to seem like natural wood. You may sand T1-11 plywood siding or roughen depending on the desired look.
T1-11 siding is available in two grades: plywood and OBS (Oriented Strand Board). Plywood is more durable than OBS because it does not expand or warp when exposed to water. When OBS boards are wet, the corners expand and remain like that even after drying.
T1-11 plywood siding is more durable than OBS siding, but it is also more costly. Each different board will cost a few dollars.
T1-11 siding typically costs between $0.90 and $2.50 per square foot. Installation costs between $1.89 and $4.86 per square foot. Expect to pay between $3.56 and $6.48 per square foot.
Rain, snow, and humidity all promote wood rot. Cracked siding lets water inside the material. Over time, these difficulties might worsen. Water damage causes mold, cracking, and corrosion. It affects curb attractiveness. Mold from water damage may harm your health. Untreated wood rot lets water and moisture into your house. Installing T1-11 siding by experts prevents water damage. Check T1-11 siding for wood rot. If water leaks or retains, contact a professional.
3. Tongue-And-Groove Paneling
Best for: Tongue-and-groove panels are highly durable in cold locations due to their tight seal and may help offer extra insulation.
Tongue-and-groove paneling, often known as cladding, is a wood boarding used to construct wooden structures. The panels are interlocking, meaning they fit together without nails or adhesive. This type of paneling is famous for its clean, seamless look.
In addition, you can install tongue-and-groove paneling relatively quickly and easily. When properly cared for, tongue-and-groove paneling can last for many years. With its many benefits, it’s no wonder tongue-and-groove paneling is such a popular choice for home, office renovations, and sheds.
The material costs between $1,350 and $1,800, and professional installation ranges from $4 to $8 per square foot. However, this is a very DIY-friendly siding material, so you can save money by painting over less expensive lumber.
4. Metal Siding: Aluminum and Steel
Best for: Steel or aluminum siding can handle most weather conditions.
It works particularly well in coastal areas prone to storms and high winds. Similarly, aluminum does better when exposed to sea salt, being non-corrosive. Metal does not expand and compress like wood in colder weather, keeping its shape and polish.
Compared to vinyl or wood, metal siding gives any structure an industrial look. It’s commonly joined vertically. However, interlocking planks may be attached horizontally, vertically, or diagonally.
Aluminum siding installation costs between $9 and $17 per square foot. Steel siding installation costs between $7 and $16 per square foot.
5. Traditional Wood Siding
Best for: Any climate may use traditional wood siding.
You should consider your location’s climate while buying timber. Cedar’s water resistance makes it perfect for wet or tropical settings. Some woods are more susceptible to moisture damage and may do better in dry conditions. Your wood siding may need more regular sealing in damp climates for water damage prevention.
Wood is a natural insulator in sunny, hot climates. Light-colored or light-painted woods reflect the sun’s rays and keep the home cooler. Darker hues and wood siding with rich tones absorb more heat. Traditional wood siding has a lifespan of 20-40 years.
On average, the price per square foot ranges from $7 to $12.
6. Bevel Siding
Best for: Being wood, bevel siding is best for any climate.
Its susceptibility and resistance to damage from harsh weather conditions depending on the wood type, same as the wood properties in traditional wood siding.
Bevel siding is a type of wood siding that is two pieces of timber resawn at an angle. The butt on one edge is thicker than the butt on the other. They lap to shed water. Builders can use bevel siding on sheds to add a rustic touch. It is only suitable for horizontal applications.
You can determine the cost of installing bevel siding on a shed by the type and size of wood used. The price for Pine plank alone comes out at $346, excluding any trimming or corner pieces. Prices increase as you add more features.
7. Engineered Wood Siding
Best for: Engineered wood siding is a versatile and durable product that you can use in any climate.
It comprises wood strands or fibers treated with resins, making the siding resistant to high temperatures and freeze/thaw cycles. It also does not warp or deteriorate like traditional wood siding. Look for products with low-emitting resins to ensure a healthy environment inside your shed. With engineered wood siding, you can have peace of mind knowing your shed will look great and withstand the test of time.
This good-looking engineered wood cladding is affordable. Lap siding or panels cost $1.25 to $2.15 per square foot and $2.35 to $3.25 for shake siding. Prices include accessories and installation materials. Engineered siding costs 20% to 50% less than genuine wood.
Engineered wood siding prices may depend on your home’s design and who handles the job. Typically, engineered wood siding installation costs $1.85 to $6.00.
Overall, the average price per square foot is $5 to $10.
8. LP Smartside Siding
Best for: LP Smartside siding is best for extreme weather.
Wax-coated wood strands comprise LP SmartSide siding. Resin and other binders are present in their material composition to join the strands. Zinc borate is added to the material to provide further insect protection and prevent decay. Engineered to withstand harsh weather, LP SmartSide Lap Siding is a natural, lasting alternative for buildings in any climate. Furthermore, it is an ideal partner for cladding for stucco, stone, and brick constructions.
One of the most significant benefits of LP SmartSide siding is its affordable cost range of $5-$10 per square foot. They are more straightforward and less expensive to install because of their lightweight materials.
9. Channel Siding
Best for: Best for every environment and has the same susceptibility as traditional wood siding.
Channel wood siding is made of softwood timber, such as pine or cedar, and has a lip or rabbeted groove at the bottom that overhangs the top face of the board below it. The end product is a channeled lap siding finish.
The average price per square foot ranges from $6 to $12.
10. Board-and-Batten
Best for: a rustic aesthetic.
Planks (broad panels or boards) with vertical grooves (battens) comprise board-and-batten siding to keep rain or snow out. Although vertical installation is more common, you may put the panels and strips horizontally or vertically. Weatherproof board and batten are great for harsh weather. Hurricanes, high winds, and rainstorms have tested it.
When properly maintained, wood board and batten siding will last for many years.
The cost of materials is estimated to be between $1.50 and $5.50 per square foot. You’ll need to budget for labor, which may vary depending on who you employ to install the siding.
11. Fiber-cement
Best for: This robust siding material works well in various conditions.
Fiber-cement siding is a material made by rolling cement, sand, and cellulose fibers into a sheet and pressing them together.
In dry, wildfire-prone areas, such as the west, certain insurance companies give a discount for fiber cement-sided dwellings. It’s unaffected by high-altitude UV rays. Salt air, high humidity, and intense light are frequent coastal concerns, yet this siding remains unaffected. It can resist 130 mph winds with correct nailing. Termites and fungus flourish in the warm, humid southern U.S., like New Orleans, but not on fiber cement.
In winter conditions like the Arctic, fiber cement isn’t fragile in cold temperatures, unlike vinyl. It resists freezing and freeze-thaw cycles.
Fiber cement siding’s average cost per square foot varies from $5 to $25 installed. The materials alone range in price from $0.70 to $15 per square foot.
12. OSB Shed Siding
Best for: OSB is the best siding material for reducing costs for building your shed.
OSB is an abbreviation for Oriented Strand Board. OSB is a kind of produced wood composed of tiny wood chips bonded together in layers.
OSB sidings come in 4 x 8-foot panels with a typical thickness of 7/16 inches. To keep the elements in good condition, add a layer of protective stain.
The typical cost of OSB per 4-by-8-foot sheet ranges from $32 to $77, depending on the kind and thickness.
OSB utilizes tree farms instead of forests to manufacture more efficiently than plywood. Both are manufactured using low-formaldehyde PF resins. Formaldehyde-free OSB is available.
What Is the Cheapest Siding Option For Sheds?
There are many factors to consider when it comes time for home improvements, not the least of which is deciding what materials and labor will cost. In this section, we’ll look at some of the cheapest siding options based on both material and labor costs. Whether you’re looking to save money or are on a tight budget, this information can help you decide. So read on to learn more!
Cheapest Siding Options By Labor and Material Costs
1. Vinyl Siding
Isn’t the lowest choice on our list, but it’s inexpensive and value-priced. Material and installation expenses for vinyl siding range from $1.44 to $2.93 per square foot. It’s popular since it’s versatile, durable, and affordable. Vinyl is the cheapest shed siding option for these reasons.
Vinyl operates well in all climates and comes in many colors, sizes, styles, and quality. If you want pricier, higher-quality shed siding, this type of siding has more premium alternatives.
Pre-cut vinyl siding saves time and money when putting it on a shed. Installing siding panels is straightforward, whether you do it yourself or hire a contractor.
2. Construction Quality Shed Siding Plywood
Although it’s the cheapest choice, we prefer plywood for shed siding. Less costly than typical wood siding, plywood costs $1 to $4 per square foot for supplies and installation.
Plywood comes in a variety of grades, and some alternatives may be more costly than others, so browse cautiously when shopping for plywood backyard shed siding. If you want shed siding, you’ll most likely use T-11 plywood, however there may be other possibilities available at your local hardware shop.
3. Metal Shed Siding: Aluminum
For good reason, metal siding is one of the most popular siding alternatives available. If you are on a budget, you will most likely choose aluminum siding, but you can also get a decent bargain on more sturdy metal siding items.
Metallic siding may be purchased as pre-primed or pre-cut metal panels that you can put on the front and rear walls of your shed depending on its design. Metal siding is often favored over other siding materials due to its strength and lifespan.
4. Engineered Wood Shed Siding
Engineered wood is our third siding option since it is widely available in all hardware stores throughout the country and prices have come down as a result of competition. Engineered wood siding is, as the name implies, manufactured wood siding.
Most engineered wood siding is eco-friendly since it’s made from reclaimed wood. Despite this, they’re frequently more durable due to manufacture chemicals and insect and water resistance.
Depending on wood quality, style, and supplier, engineered wood siding costs $4 to $10 installed. You may choose any design or quantity of engineered wood siding.
5. Siding Made of Fiber Cement
Fiber cement siding is one of the low-cost siding alternatives available. Fiber cement siding is a composite material made up of cement and cellulose fibers. It’s one of the most popular siding solutions, and it’s available at any hardware shop throughout the nation.
Manufacturer and market determine fiber cement siding quality. Our experience shows that even cheaper choices are safe. Fiber cement’s production technique makes it a budget-friendly siding.
Most fiber cement shed cladding boards are pre-stained and shaped. Large boards (5.5 inches or more) may be custom-shaped and designed.
The lowest fiber cement thickness is 4 mm. Thicker cement boards cost more. Your budget will determine the thickness of your shed siding.
Cheapest Shed Siding Options By Style
1. Bevel Siding for Sheds
Another low-cost shed siding option is bevel siding. Older houses and sheds commonly have bevel siding, often known as clapboard siding. Overlapping boards are put horizontally next to one another in bevel siding. To create the required form, start with the bottom plate or top board and insert the subsequent board with a little overlap (approximately 2 inches).
2. Boards and Batten Siding
Board and batten is another great, low-cost option for shed cladding. It’s a siding style in which little strips, sometimes known as battens, are mixed in with larger boards to create a pleasing appearance. Use LP Smartside siding instead of board and batten for board and batten.
For added curb appeal, board and batten may be used on the front wall, while a less appealing form can be used on the end walls to save money. A gable end of a house or a barn with board and batten looks very lovely.
3. Shiplap Siding for Sheds
Shiplap siding is the cheapest and most common siding choice for sheds since the boards are wide and have a simple design. Most folks just add LP Smartside siding to this siding style. Shiplap siding is made out of horizontal boards with opposing joints that are put next to one another.
Shiplap may be made out of any siding, although LP siding is the most popular. To make the project seem neater, use construction adhesive below and between the horizontal boards. Shiplap siding may last for years, but how much maintenance it need is dependent on your environment.
4. Shingles and Shakes
Shed siding made of shakes or shingles is a cost-effective option. Shakes, often known as shingles, are small siding pieces. Compared to shingles, shakes are thicker and more consistent. In most cases, shingles and shakes are combined to produce a rustic or fascinating appearance.
You may use a circular saw to cut shakes or shingles, or you can purchase pre-cut, ready-to-nail pieces. Pre-made shakes are available in a variety of forms and do not need painting.
Before attaching siding to walls, a circular saw is used to trim it.
Sheds are often made of cedar shingles, although any material may suffice. Outbuildings are ideal for this sort of LP Smartside siding. This kind of siding requires a unique installation. It takes a long time to install each shingles.
What Is the Most Durable Siding Option For Sheds?
1. Engineered Wood Siding (pre-finished)
Engineered wood siding is a great alternative to solid wood siding. It’s more flexible, lighter, more damp-resistant, yet it still looks like wood. In our impact resistance test, manufactured wood siding fared the best. We couldn’t find the mark that had been left behind!
Engineered wood siding is for you if you like the look of traditional wood siding but want something more sturdy and long-lasting. The ease with which the device may be installed is also a plus. If engineered wood siding is one of your top options, read on to learn more about the benefits of this kind of siding.
2. Siding Made of Steel
Steel siding is very durable and can withstand more damage than other types of siding. It outperformed both vinyl and fiber cement in our tests, however, there was still a significant concave depression and some paint flaking.
While the steel siding looked dingy, there is a distinction to be made between an eyesore and substantial harm to your home’s outside. Despite coming in second, steel siding is still an extremely durable siding option. You may learn all there is to know about steel siding by clicking here.
3. Cement Fiber (pre-finished)
Another cost-effective alternative is fiber cement siding. It requires little upkeep, is fire and termite-resistant, and is aesthetically versatile. Although fiber cement siding survived significantly better than vinyl siding, it was nonetheless severely damaged. The ding only fit half of the width of the bb, yet there was no cracking or breaking.
While it is not the most impact-resistant material, it does not distort or decay. Fiber cement is a great choice for individuals who want long-lasting results without breaking the bank. You can find out more about the benefits of fiber cement siding here.
4. Vinyl Siding
Vinyl siding is sometimes a less expensive option than brick or wood siding. It is also a cost-effective solution due to its minimal maintenance needs. When faced with a 50 caliber bb, though, this is not the best option. The bullet tore a hole in the vinyl siding, which was investigated first. A vast, irrevocable hole was left behind. Ouch!
Despite the fact that vinyl siding failed the BB test, it is still a viable siding option. It is a suitable solution for many houses because of its low cost and versatility, especially if they live in an area with infrequent severe storms. Learn about the benefits of vinyl siding in this article.
Conclusion
While there are many factors to consider when choosing the right shed siding for your home, we hope that this article has helped you narrow down your options.
If you have any questions about the shed sidings we’ve listed here or want help finding a contractor who can help you with the installation, fill out the quick form below:
