When you're investing in a shed, the siding you choose plays a big role in how long it lasts, how well it protects your belongings, and how it looks in your backyard. But it’s not just about siding—what matters just as much is how the shed is built, especially the framing and foundation underneath that siding.
In this article, we’re going to focus on wood-framed sheds, which are the most popular type for residential use. We'll look at four common siding types—metal, Hardie board, T1-11, and LP Smart Siding—to help you decide what’s right for your needs.
Metal siding is known for being incredibly durable and weather-resistant. It holds up well in harsh climates and doesn’t rot or attract pests. For purely utility-focused buildings like farm storage or work sheds, metal can be a great long-term choice. It doesn’t need much maintenance and is naturally fire-resistant.
However, it’s not always a great fit for residential or backyard sheds. Metal doesn’t give off a “homey” or traditional appearance, and it can dent or scratch easily. Repairs aren’t as simple, and installing metal panels takes more time and care. It’s also not ideal if you plan to insulate or finish the interior since it often lacks a backing layer to attach interior finishes.
Hardie board siding is another durable option, especially when it comes to moisture resistance and fire protection. It’s made of cement and cellulose fibers, so it doesn’t rot or warp like traditional wood. It’s also great for resisting insects and extreme temperatures, which makes it appealing for permanent sheds or cabins.
But Hardie board can be tricky to work with. It’s brittle, heavy, and prone to cracking if not handled carefully—especially during transport. Because of that, it’s not commonly used on portable sheds that need to be moved or delivered fully built. It also takes more time and cost to install correctly compared to other materials.
T1-11 is a classic plywood-based wood siding that gives off a rustic and natural look. It’s strong, easy to install, and works well structurally since it adds strength to the frame. It also accepts paint or stain well, giving homeowners the ability to refresh it as needed.
The downside is that T1-11 is not treated against moisture or insects. Without consistent upkeep—like sealing, painting, or staining—it can rot quickly. Even with good care, it's not designed for long-term exposure to heavy moisture, especially in more humid parts of Texas. Over time, it often breaks down faster than engineered products.
LP Smart Siding is what we use on every single shed and cabin we build, and there’s a reason it's the most popular siding for portable buildings across the country. It’s an engineered wood product, which means it's made from real wood but treated with resins and zinc borate to protect it against moisture, termites, and decay.
This siding gives you the best of both worlds—the look and workability of wood with the durability and resistance of modern materials. It’s lightweight, impact-resistant, and flexible enough to be used in different styles like board & batten or lap siding. Plus, it comes with a 50-year limited warranty, which is one of the longest in the industry.
Unlike T1-11 or Hardie, LP Smart Siding holds up extremely well during delivery and installation, even on large or heavy buildings. It's also easy to paint (we use Sherwin-Williams premium paint) and stays looking great for years without the maintenance headaches of traditional wood siding.
The best siding for your shed depends on how you plan to use it and how it’s built. If you want durability, weather resistance, and low maintenance, LP Smart Siding is our clear winner, especially for wood-framed sheds that are going to be delivered fully built and possibly finished out on the inside.
We’ve used it for years with confidence, and our buildings are backed by a lifetime leak and decay warranty for the original owner.
We’re based in Itasca, TX and serve most of the state, offering delivery within 300 miles. Whether you're looking for a small storage shed or a full-size cabin shell to turn into a tiny home, we’d love to help.
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