I Want to Put Siding on a Metal Shed

About Metal Sheds

• Metal sheds are usually constructed of steel or aluminum. Steel is a more substantial material that resists dents that can occur with heavy lawn equipment. Steel, however, can develop rust that degrades the metal over time. Aluminum, in contrast, is durable but lighter weight than steel. It does not rust and requires less maintenance. Either of these materials can be painted, but if a more attractive surface is desired, siding can be added to match the home or other buildings on the property.

Siding For Sheds

• Conceivably, homeowners could use any type of siding material for their metal shed. Some types may require more underlayment to support the siding, making the task less cost effective and much more time consuming. Vinyl or aluminum is the most inexpensive type of siding and is commonly used on homes, so finding material that matches the home is easy.

Insulating Before Adding Siding

• Vinyl siding is weather resistant, but you may wish to add a moisture barrier to protect the metal under the siding. You can also add insulation under it to keep the shed warmer in the winter and cooler in summer. This insulated space is particularly important if you intend to spend time in the shed working on hobby projects, such as potting plants or other tasks.

Installing Siding To Metal

• For a simple structure like a shed, adding 1-by-2-inch furring strips at intervals to the metal sides with screws provides a solid base for the siding. Installing the J-trim, also called J-channel, around doors and windows allows the siding to attach to corners in a neat and attractive way.

  The siding is cut to size and snapped into place in an interlocking manner into its channel and is then nailed to the furring strips through the slots in the vinyl. Vinyl siding should not be nailed into position too tightly, as it needs a bit of room to expand. This looseness keep the siding from buckling or warping.