Appalachian Sheds Inc. · Siding & Exterior Finishes

Five Distinctive Ways to Finish Your Building

Choose the Exterior Character That Fits Your Building

The siding you choose does more than establish color. It determines the texture, shadow lines, architectural character, maintenance profile and construction of the finished exterior. Appalachian Sheds offers five carefully selected siding systems—each different enough to give you a meaningful choice without turning the process into an overwhelming catalog.

Start With the Look You Want

Some homeowners want the straightforward vertical character of a traditional wood shed. Others want deeper board-and-batten shadow lines, a residential horizontal lap profile, or the low-maintenance familiarity of vinyl siding.

There is no single siding that is best for every building. The better choice is the siding system that fits the architecture, use, maintenance expectations and appearance you want for your property.

Then Look Behind the Finish

Two buildings can appear equally attractive from the outside and still have very different wall assemblies underneath. That is why every Appalachian siding description also explains how the material is installed, what supports it and what preparation belongs behind the visible finish.

Our Five Siding Systems

Compare the Architectural Character First

Use these five choices as a starting point. Each detailed section explains the appearance, construction, backing, installation method and best applications for that siding.

01

LP SmartSide Vertical Panel Siding

Structural Engineered-Wood Panel

Clean vertical lines and traditional shed or barn character without applied battens. A straightforward engineered-wood exterior that allows doors, windows and rooflines to remain the primary architectural features.

Wall System Qualifying structural siding panel can form the continuous exterior wall skin.
Explore Vertical Panel
02

Roseburg DuraTemp Wood Siding

Real-Wood Plywood Structural Siding

A plywood-based siding panel with a durable hardboard face and traditional rough-sawn character. Particularly well suited to classic sheds, barns, workshops and other buildings where authentic wood character matters.

Wall System The DuraTemp plywood siding panel itself can provide the structural exterior wall skin.
Explore DuraTemp
03

LP SmartSide Board & Batten Siding

Architectural Vertical Siding System

Vertical siding with raised battens creates deeper shadow lines and greater architectural dimension for cottages, studios, pool houses, barns and premium custom buildings.

Wall System Applied over Appalachian Sheds' full 1/2-inch exterior-grade plywood-sheathed wall.
Explore Board & Batten
04

Georgia-Pacific Forest Ridge Vinyl Lap Siding

Low-Maintenance Horizontal Cladding

Traditional residential horizontal lap styling with the low routine maintenance associated with vinyl. A natural choice when the backyard building should coordinate with a conventionally sided home.

Wall System Vinyl cladding installed over full 1/2-inch exterior-grade plywood, WRB and flashing.
Explore Forest Ridge Vinyl
05

LP SmartSide Lap Siding

Premium Horizontal Engineered Wood

Horizontal engineered-wood siding for a refined residential or cottage-inspired exterior. Particularly effective on studios, offices, pool houses and other buildings designed to visually complement the home.

Wall System Installed by Appalachian Sheds over full 1/2-inch exterior-grade plywood and weather preparation.
Explore LP Lap Siding
Construction Matters

What's Behind the Siding?

The answer depends upon the siding. Some exterior products are structural siding panels themselves. Others are finish materials that depend upon a separately sheathed and weather-prepared wall underneath.

Structural Siding Panels

LP SmartSide Vertical Panel and Roseburg DuraTemp can serve as the continuous structural exterior wall panel in qualifying installations. The siding panel itself therefore performs both an exterior-finish and structural wall-skin function.

Applied Siding & Cladding

LP SmartSide Board & Batten, Georgia-Pacific Forest Ridge Vinyl and Appalachian's LP SmartSide Lap system are installed over a separately prepared continuous wall surface.

Appalachian Sheds Standard: When a siding system uses separate structural wall sheathing, Appalachian Sheds uses full 1/2-inch exterior-grade plywood. We make that specification visible because the wall behind the siding is an important part of the building—even though it disappears from view when construction is complete.

Exterior Trim & Architectural Finish

LP SmartSide Trim & Fascia

The siding establishes the broad exterior surface, but the trim defines the architecture. Corner boards, door trim, window trim, fascia and other exterior details create the lines that frame the building and give it a finished appearance.

Appalachian Sheds uses LP SmartSide engineered-wood trim products where our design calls for painted exterior trim. LP offers the visual character of traditional wood trim with the consistency of an engineered product specifically manufactured for exterior exposure.

The system is available in Cedar Texture and Brushed Smooth profiles, multiple widths and thicknesses, and long 16-foot lengths that can reduce joints and visible seams on many building applications.

Engineered Consistency Manufactured widths, thicknesses and textures provide a predictable exterior-trim profile from piece to piece.
SmartGuard Protection Engineered for resistance to termites and fungal decay and protection from common exterior weather exposure.
16-Foot Lengths Long trim boards can reduce joints and seams and help create cleaner continuous architectural lines.
Coordinated Appearance Cedar Texture, Brushed Smooth and multiple finish choices make it easy to coordinate or contrast with the siding.
How Does LP SmartSide Trim Compare With Natural Cedar?

Western Red Cedar remains a respected premium exterior wood and can provide excellent service when properly selected, detailed, finished and maintained. The difference is predictability and upkeep. Natural cedar changes appearance as it weathers, and exterior stains or coatings require periodic inspection and renewal. LP SmartSide Trim provides a manufactured, treated and paint-ready alternative with consistent dimensions, coordinated textures and long available lengths. For Appalachian Sheds' painted trim applications, those characteristics make LP SmartSide Trim & Fascia an excellent fit.

Quick Decision Guide

Start With the Exterior Character You Prefer

Clean & Traditional LP SmartSide Vertical Panel
Real-Wood Character Roseburg DuraTemp
Architectural & Dimensional LP Board & Batten
Residential & Low Maintenance Forest Ridge Vinyl Lap
Residential Engineered Wood LP SmartSide Lap

Siding & Exterior Finishes · Option 01

LP SmartSide Vertical Panel Siding

Clean Vertical Lines · Engineered-Wood Construction

LP SmartSide Vertical Panel Siding gives an Appalachian building the straightforward character of traditional vertical wood siding with the consistency of an engineered exterior panel. This option refers to qualifying large-format LP SmartSide structural Panel Siding—not the separate nonstructural LP SmartSide Vertical Siding used in our Board & Batten assembly. Its clean lines work especially well on classic sheds, garden buildings, workshops, barns and other structures where the architecture should remain simple, substantial and timeless.

A Traditional Exterior Without Excess Decoration

Vertical panel siding creates strong proportions without competing with the building itself. Rooflines, doors, windows, trim, porches and overhangs remain the primary architectural features while the siding provides a consistent wood-grain background.

For homeowners who want an Appalachian shed or small building to look purposeful rather than ornamental, this is one of the most versatile exterior treatments we offer.

Vertical Profile Creates the familiar proportions associated with traditional sheds, barns and utility buildings.
Engineered Wood Manufactured as an engineered exterior siding panel rather than a thin decorative surface treatment.
Color Flexibility Works naturally with warm neutrals, greens, earth tones and contrasting trim combinations.
Clean Detailing Allows windows, doors, fascia, corner boards and other architectural details to stand out clearly.
How We Install It

The Wall Behind the Finish Matters

LP SmartSide Vertical Panel Siding is different from an applied lap siding, vinyl cladding or the nonstructural LP SmartSide Vertical Siding used in our Board & Batten system. Qualifying large-format LP SmartSide Panel Siding is designed so the panel itself can form the structural exterior skin of the framed wall when installed according to the manufacturer's requirements.

The panels are installed vertically over properly spaced framing with the required panel spacing, fastening, exterior clearances, edge treatment and flashing details. Because the panel itself can provide the continuous structural wall surface, a second layer of plywood is not automatically required simply to support this siding.

Typical Appalachian Wall Assembly

Siding Type Qualifying large-format structural engineered-wood vertical panel siding
Primary Backing Properly framed wall; qualifying panels may be installed directly to structural framing
Preparation Correct panel spacing, fastening, flashing, sealed exposed edges and required exterior clearances
Orientation Vertical panel installation
Moisture Details Weather-resistive and flashing details appropriate to the specific building assembly and application

Appalachian Sheds Standard: When a siding assembly requires or specifies separate wall sheathing, we use full 1/2-inch exterior-grade plywood as our wall sheathing standard rather than relying on intermittent furring or minimum-thickness sheet products.

Well Suited For

  • Traditional storage sheds
  • Garden sheds and garden buildings
  • Workshops and equipment buildings
  • Barn-inspired structures
  • Buildings where clean vertical proportions are preferred

Why Homeowners Choose It

  • Traditional wood-building appearance
  • Simple vertical lines without applied battens
  • Engineered-wood exterior construction
  • Broad flexibility in siding and trim colors
  • Works with both understated and contrasting trim schemes

Vertical Panel or Board & Batten?

These are intentionally offered as two different exterior treatments. LP SmartSide Vertical Panel Siding creates the cleaner and simpler appearance. LP SmartSide Board & Batten adds raised vertical battens that produce deeper shadow lines and greater architectural dimension. Customers wanting a straightforward traditional exterior will often prefer Vertical Panel Siding; customers wanting a more pronounced architectural treatment may prefer Board & Batten.

Technical Installation Note

This option is based on qualifying LP SmartSide structural Panel Siding and should not be confused with the separate nonstructural LP SmartSide Vertical Siding used in Appalachian Sheds' Board & Batten assembly. Panel Siding installation requirements vary by panel series, framing spacing, structural application and project conditions. Qualifying panel siding may be attached directly to structural framing or to approved wood structural panel sheathing when permitted by the applicable product instructions. Final fastening, flashing, spacing, clearance and moisture-management details are determined by the specific product and building assembly used on the project.

Siding & Exterior Finishes · Option 02

Roseburg DuraTemp Wood Siding

Real Wood Construction · Rough-Sawn Cedar Character

Roseburg DuraTemp combines the strength of a plywood siding panel with a durable hardboard face and the textured appearance of rough-sawn cedar. It is especially well suited to traditional sheds, barns, workshops and other backyard buildings where genuine wood character and structural simplicity are both important.

A Real-Wood Siding Panel Built for Outdoor Structures

DuraTemp is not a thin decorative cladding placed over another exterior wall surface. It is a plywood-based real-wood siding panel manufactured specifically for exterior applications.

The hardboard face provides the rough-sawn visual character associated with traditional cedar siding while the plywood construction gives the panel the structural qualities needed for many shed and barn wall applications.

Real Wood Plywood-based exterior siding rather than vinyl, fiber cement or an OSB-based decorative surface.
Rough-Sawn Look A textured hardboard face provides the visual character of traditional rough-sawn cedar siding.
Structural Panel Qualifying DuraTemp panels can form the continuous exterior structural skin of the framed wall.
Paintable Finish Designed to accept an appropriate exterior coating system for long-term color and weather protection.
How We Install It

The Siding Panel Is Also the Wall Skin

Roseburg DuraTemp is a structural plywood siding panel. When the selected panel span rating matches the wall framing layout, the siding can be installed vertically directly over the structural wall framing rather than requiring another layer of plywood solely to support the siding.

The panels are installed with their edges supported by framing and with the manufacturer's required expansion spacing, corrosion-resistant fastening, exterior clearances and finish preparation. This creates a continuous real-wood exterior wall surface without adding an unnecessary second structural panel behind it.

Typical Appalachian Wall Assembly

Siding Type Real-wood plywood structural siding panel with hardboard face
Primary Backing Properly framed structural wall; qualifying panels may install directly over the framing
Panel Support Panel edges and ends are supported by framing, with framing spacing matched to the panel span rating
Preparation Required panel spacing, corrosion-resistant fasteners, exterior clearances, sealed edges and proper finish preparation
Orientation Vertical panel installation

Important distinction: DuraTemp itself is already a plywood-based structural siding panel. For this wall system, adding another layer of plywood merely as siding backing would normally duplicate the structural panel that DuraTemp already provides.

Well Suited For

  • Traditional storage sheds
  • Garden sheds and garden buildings
  • Workshops and equipment buildings
  • Barn-inspired structures
  • Buildings where authentic wood character is preferred

Why Homeowners Choose It

  • Real-wood plywood construction
  • Traditional rough-sawn exterior texture
  • Structural siding and exterior finish in one panel
  • Suitable for painted exterior color schemes
  • Long-established use on sheds, barns and residential structures

DuraTemp or LP SmartSide Vertical Panel?

Both provide a clean vertical exterior and both can function as structural siding panels in qualifying installations, but the materials are different. DuraTemp is built around a real plywood panel with a hardboard face and a rough-sawn cedar appearance. LP SmartSide Vertical Panel is an engineered-wood siding product manufactured through LP's SmartGuard process. The choice is therefore less about which one is “better” and more about which material construction and exterior character best fit the building.

Technical Installation Note

Roseburg permits DuraTemp siding panels to be installed vertically directly over wall framing when the framing spacing does not exceed the span rating shown on the panel. Panel edges and ends are supported by framing, appropriate expansion spacing is maintained, corrosion-resistant fasteners are used, and the siding is finished and maintained according to the manufacturer's current instructions. Specific installation requirements remain subject to the particular panel selected and the final building assembly.

Siding & Exterior Finishes · Option 03

LP SmartSide Board & Batten Siding

Dimensional Vertical Siding · Full Plywood-Backed Wall Assembly

LP SmartSide Board & Batten gives an Appalachian building a more architectural vertical exterior with deep shadow lines, raised battens and the character associated with traditional barns, cottages and modern farmhouse design. Unlike structural panel siding, our board-and-batten system is installed as an applied siding assembly over a fully sheathed exterior wall.

More Depth Than a Flat Vertical Panel

Board-and-batten siding gets its distinctive appearance from the relationship between wider vertical siding boards and narrower raised battens. Those battens create deeper shadow lines and a stronger sense of craftsmanship than a simple flat panel exterior.

It is especially effective on buildings with pronounced rooflines, porches, transom windows, premium doors, timber details and other architectural features where the siding should contribute to the overall design rather than simply cover the wall.

Deep Shadow Lines Raised battens add visible depth and dimension that flat vertical panel siding does not provide.
Architectural Detail Pairs naturally with premium doors, windows, porches, roof overhangs and timber accents.
Engineered Wood Uses LP SmartSide engineered-wood siding and trim components for a coordinated exterior system.
Solid Wall Backing Installed over a continuously sheathed wall rather than depending on intermittent horizontal furring.
How We Install It

A Fully Sheathed Wall Comes First

LP SmartSide Vertical Siding is an applied siding product rather than a structural wall panel. LP requires this system to be installed over continuous wood structural panel sheathing with the appropriate weather-resistive barrier behind the siding.

Appalachian Sheds prepares that wall with full 1/2-inch exterior-grade plywood sheathing. The weather-resistive layer and flashing details are installed over the prepared wall, followed by the vertical LP SmartSide siding and properly laid-out LP battens that create the finished board-and-batten appearance.

This means the exterior is supported by a continuous plywood-backed wall assembly rather than treating widely spaced furring strips as the primary siding support.

Typical Appalachian Wall Assembly

Siding Type Nonstructural LP SmartSide Vertical Siding with applied LP SmartSide battens
Wall Backing Full 1/2-inch exterior-grade plywood sheathing over the structural wall framing
Moisture Layer Properly installed weather-resistive barrier integrated with window, door and wall flashing
Finish Layer Vertical LP SmartSide siding installed over the prepared wall
Architectural Detail LP SmartSide battens installed vertically to create the finished board-and-batten profile

Appalachian Sheds Standard: LP calls for a minimum 7/16-category wood structural panel behind its Vertical Siding. Appalachian Sheds instead uses full 1/2-inch exterior-grade plywood as our continuous wall-sheathing specification for this siding system.

From the Framing Out

Understanding the Board & Batten Wall

The finished battens are only the outermost architectural detail. The performance of the exterior begins with the complete wall assembly behind them.

1 Wall Framing The structural framework that establishes the wall.
2 1/2" Plywood Continuous exterior-grade plywood sheathing across the framed wall.
3 Weather Layer WRB and flashing details integrated into the exterior wall assembly.
4 Vertical Siding LP SmartSide Vertical Siding applied over the prepared wall.
5 Raised Battens LP trim battens create the characteristic depth and vertical shadow lines.

Well Suited For

  • Country cottage and farmhouse-inspired buildings
  • Premium garden buildings
  • Pool houses and backyard retreats
  • Studios and backyard offices
  • Barns and larger custom buildings
  • Projects where architectural appearance is a priority

Why Homeowners Choose It

  • Greater architectural depth than flat panel siding
  • Distinctive vertical shadow lines
  • Traditional barn and cottage character
  • Engineered-wood siding and trim components
  • Full plywood-backed Appalachian wall assembly
  • Strong compatibility with contrasting trim colors

Board & Batten or Vertical Panel?

Although both create strong vertical lines, the two Appalachian siding systems are constructed differently. LP SmartSide Vertical Panel Siding uses a structural panel that can form the exterior wall skin itself in qualifying applications. Our LP SmartSide Board & Batten system uses separate Vertical Siding and raised battens installed over a fully prepared 1/2-inch exterior-grade plywood-sheathed wall. The result is greater visual depth, stronger shadow lines and a more architectural exterior.

Technical Installation Note

LP SmartSide Vertical Siding is not rated as structural siding and is intended for installation over continuous wood structural panel sheathing. LP currently specifies a minimum 7/16-category wood structural panel and a properly installed weather-resistive barrier behind the siding. Appalachian Sheds' specification for this wall system is full 1/2-inch exterior-grade plywood sheathing, followed by the appropriate moisture-management and flashing details, LP SmartSide Vertical Siding, and LP SmartSide trim battens installed according to the applicable product instructions.

Siding & Exterior Finishes · Option 04

Georgia-Pacific Forest Ridge Vinyl Lap Siding

Traditional Horizontal Lap · Low-Maintenance Exterior

Georgia-Pacific Forest Ridge gives an Appalachian building the familiar horizontal lines of traditional residential lap siding with the low-maintenance advantages of vinyl. The finished appearance is clean and residential, but the quality of the wall beneath the vinyl is just as important as the siding itself.

A More Residential Exterior Character

Forest Ridge differs visually from our vertical wood and engineered-wood siding options. Its horizontal lap profile creates the familiar appearance commonly seen on homes, cottages and residential accessory buildings.

That makes it particularly attractive when the goal is to coordinate the backyard building with the architecture of the home or create a cleaner, lower-maintenance residential appearance.

Traditional Lap Horizontal siding courses create the familiar proportions of conventional residential siding.
Low Maintenance Does not require routine scraping, painting or staining to maintain the exterior finish.
Wood-Grain Finish A textured surface gives the siding more visual character than a completely smooth vinyl panel.
Continuous Backing Installed over a fully sheathed, weather-prepared wall rather than treated as a structural wall material.
How We Install It

Vinyl Is the Finish — Not the Wall

Forest Ridge Vinyl Lap Siding is an exterior cladding. It does not replace structural wall sheathing and should be installed over a smooth, flat and stable wall surface.

Appalachian Sheds first sheathes the framed wall with full 1/2-inch exterior-grade plywood. The wall is then prepared with the appropriate weather-resistive barrier and flashing before starter strips, corner components, trim channels and the horizontal vinyl siding courses are installed.

The result is a finished vinyl exterior supported by a continuous plywood-backed wall rather than asking the vinyl itself—or intermittent framing—to perform a job it was never designed to do.

Typical Appalachian Wall Assembly

Siding Type Nonstructural Georgia-Pacific Forest Ridge vinyl exterior cladding
Wall Backing Full 1/2-inch exterior-grade plywood sheathing over the structural wall framing
Moisture Layer Continuous weather-resistive barrier with properly integrated flashing at openings and transitions
Accessories Starter strips, corners, J-channels and other required vinyl trim components
Finish Layer Horizontal Forest Ridge Traditional Lap siding installed with proper fastening and movement allowance

Appalachian Sheds Standard: Vinyl siding can be installed over several approved sheathing materials. Appalachian Sheds uses full 1/2-inch exterior-grade plywood as our continuous wall backing rather than reducing the wall assembly to minimum-thickness OSB.

From the Framing Out

Understanding the Vinyl-Sided Wall

The vinyl is the visible finish. The strength, flatness and moisture preparation of the wall beneath it are established before the first siding course is installed.

1 Wall Framing The structural wall framework is built straight and true.
2 1/2" Plywood Continuous exterior-grade plywood creates the solid wall backing.
3 Weather Barrier WRB and flashing help manage incidental water behind the siding.
4 Trim System Starter, corners and channels establish the perimeter and receiving points.
5 Vinyl Lap Siding Horizontal Forest Ridge courses complete the visible exterior.

Well Suited For

  • Backyard buildings designed to complement vinyl-sided homes
  • Garden buildings and cottages
  • Pool houses and backyard retreats
  • Traditional storage sheds
  • Projects where low routine exterior maintenance is a priority

Why Homeowners Choose It

  • Traditional horizontal residential appearance
  • No routine exterior painting or staining
  • Weather- and pest-resistant vinyl material
  • Wood-grain surface texture
  • Wide range of siding colors
  • Full plywood-backed Appalachian wall assembly

Forest Ridge Traditional Lap Profiles

Forest Ridge is available in traditional horizontal lap profiles, including Double 4-inch and Double 5-inch configurations. Both create a conventional residential siding appearance; the difference is primarily the width and visual scale of the exposed courses.

The siding has a nominal .042-inch material thickness and a wood-grain finish. Color availability varies by profile, and some premium colors may carry an additional material cost.

Technical Installation Note

Georgia-Pacific installation guidance states that vinyl siding should be applied over sheathing that provides a smooth, flat and stable surface and should not be applied directly to wall studs without sheathing. The sheathed wall is prepared with a weather-resistive barrier and integrated flashing before vinyl siding and accessories are installed. Appalachian Sheds' wall-sheathing specification for this siding system is full 1/2-inch exterior-grade plywood.

Siding & Exterior Finishes · Option 05

LP SmartSide Lap Siding

Premium Horizontal Siding · Plywood-Backed Wall Assembly

LP SmartSide Lap Siding gives an Appalachian building the refined horizontal proportions of traditional residential wood siding while retaining the durability and consistency of an engineered-wood exterior. It is an excellent choice when the goal is to make a shed, cottage, studio, pool house or custom backyard building feel more closely related to the architecture of a home.

A More Residential Engineered-Wood Exterior

Horizontal lap siding changes the character of a backyard structure immediately. Rather than emphasizing traditional shed or barn construction, the overlapping horizontal courses create a more residential, cottage-inspired exterior.

LP SmartSide Lap Siding is particularly effective on buildings with premium windows, fiberglass doors, porches, extended overhangs and other architectural details where the finished structure is intended to complement the home rather than simply function as storage.

Horizontal Profile Overlapping horizontal courses create familiar residential and cottage proportions.
Engineered Wood Provides the character of painted wood siding in an engineered exterior product.
Texture Choices Available in Cedar Texture or Brushed Smooth depending upon the selected product and finish.
Solid Wall Backing Appalachian Sheds installs the system over full 1/2-inch exterior-grade plywood sheathing.
How We Install It

We Build the Wall Before We Install the Lap Siding

LP permits certain SmartSide Lap Siding products to be installed directly to properly spaced structural wall studs. Appalachian Sheds standardizes on a continuously sheathed wall assembly for this siding system.

We first sheath the framed wall with full 1/2-inch exterior-grade plywood, creating a continuous, solid exterior wall surface. The appropriate weather-resistive barrier and flashing are then installed before the starter detail and overlapping horizontal LP SmartSide siding courses are applied.

This gives the lap siding a continuous plywood-backed wall rather than depending on direct-to-stud attachment or intermittent secondary framing as the primary support surface.

Typical Appalachian Wall Assembly

Siding Type Horizontal LP SmartSide engineered-wood lap siding
Wall Backing Full 1/2-inch exterior-grade plywood sheathing over the structural wall framing
Moisture Layer Properly installed weather-resistive barrier and integrated flashing
Starter Detail Proper starter strip and first-course preparation establish the required siding angle
Finish Layer Horizontal LP SmartSide lap courses installed with required overlap, fastening and clearances

Appalachian Sheds Standard: LP permits both direct-to-stud installation in qualifying applications and installation over minimum 7/16-category structural sheathing. Appalachian Sheds instead uses full 1/2-inch exterior-grade plywood as the continuous wall-sheathing specification for this siding system.

From the Framing Out

Understanding the LP Lap-Sided Wall

The horizontal siding is the visible exterior layer. The complete wall beneath it provides the structural backing and moisture-management foundation for the finished system.

1 Wall Framing The structural framework establishes the wall geometry and support.
2 1/2" Plywood Continuous exterior-grade plywood creates the solid wall backing.
3 Weather Barrier WRB and flashing manage incidental moisture behind the siding.
4 Starter Detail The starter establishes the correct angle and position of the first siding course.
5 LP Lap Siding Overlapping horizontal engineered-wood courses complete the exterior.

Well Suited For

  • Country cottages and premium garden buildings
  • Backyard offices and studios
  • Pool houses and backyard retreats
  • Custom buildings designed to complement the home
  • Projects where a residential exterior appearance is a priority

Why Homeowners Choose It

  • Residential horizontal siding appearance
  • Engineered-wood construction
  • Cedar Texture or Brushed Smooth finish options
  • Strong compatibility with contrasting trim
  • Works naturally with premium doors and windows
  • Full plywood-backed Appalachian wall assembly

Cedar Texture or Brushed Smooth

Cedar Texture provides a more pronounced wood-grain appearance for homeowners who want the character of traditional painted wood siding.

Brushed Smooth creates a quieter, cleaner surface that can feel more contemporary while still retaining the proportions of horizontal wood lap siding.

Availability of texture, width, factory finish and color depends upon the specific LP SmartSide product selected for the project.

Technical Installation Note

LP's current instructions permit 38 Series Lap Siding to be attached directly to studs spaced a maximum of 16 inches on center and 76 Series Lap Siding to studs spaced a maximum of 24 inches on center. Both may also be installed over minimum 7/16-category wood structural panel sheathing with framing spaced within the manufacturer's limits. Appalachian Sheds' wall-sheathing specification for this siding system is full 1/2-inch exterior-grade plywood, followed by the applicable weather-resistive barrier, flashing, starter detail, fastening, overlap and exterior clearance requirements.

Siding & Exterior Finishes · Final Comparison

Which Siding Is Right for Your Building?

Compare Appearance, Construction & Finish Requirements

All five Appalachian siding systems can produce an attractive, durable building. The meaningful differences are architectural character, wall construction, maintenance expectations and how the exterior is finished. Use this guide to narrow the choices before reviewing model-specific pricing.

LP SmartSide Vertical Panel Clean & Traditional
Roseburg DuraTemp Real-Wood Character
LP Board & Batten Architectural & Dimensional
Forest Ridge Vinyl Lap Residential & Low Maintenance
LP SmartSide Lap Residential Engineered Wood
Side-by-Side Comparison

Five Siding Systems — One Clear View

On smaller screens, swipe or scroll horizontally to see the complete comparison.

Siding Exterior Character Wall System Wall Backing Maintenance / Finish Best Suited For Pricing Position
LP SmartSide Vertical Panel Siding Clean vertical lines with straightforward traditional shed and barn character. Qualifying structural engineered-wood siding panel. The structural siding panel itself can form the continuous exterior wall skin in qualifying applications. Field finish requirements depend upon the exact product supplied. Standard ASI building pricing does not include field painting unless specifically stated. Classic sheds, garden buildings, workshops, barns and traditional storage structures. See selected building model and size pricing.
Roseburg DuraTemp Wood Siding Traditional rough-sawn wood character with a substantial shed and barn appearance. Real-wood plywood structural siding panel with hardboard face. The DuraTemp plywood siding panel can serve as the continuous structural exterior wall skin. Requires an appropriate exterior coating system and ongoing finish maintenance. Field finishing is separate unless purchased. Classic sheds, barns, workshops, equipment buildings and traditional wood-style structures. See selected building model and size pricing.
LP SmartSide Board & Batten Siding Deep vertical shadow lines with greater architectural depth and cottage or barn character. Applied vertical siding and batten system. Full 1/2-inch exterior-grade plywood sheathing used by Appalachian Sheds, followed by the appropriate weather preparation. Painted engineered-wood exterior. Field painting and general finish caulking are separate unless included in the Turnkey Exterior Finish Package. Country cottages, custom buildings, pool houses, studios, barns and premium backyard structures. See selected building model and size pricing.
Georgia-Pacific Forest Ridge Vinyl Lap Siding Traditional horizontal residential siding appearance. Nonstructural vinyl exterior cladding. Full 1/2-inch exterior-grade plywood sheathing used by Appalachian Sheds, followed by WRB, flashing and vinyl accessories. Vinyl color is integral to the siding and does not require routine field painting or staining. Other trim and door components may still require finishing. Buildings designed to complement vinyl-sided homes, cottages, pool houses and low-maintenance backyard structures. See selected building model and size pricing.
LP SmartSide Lap Siding Refined horizontal engineered-wood appearance with strong residential and cottage character. Applied horizontal engineered-wood lap siding. Full 1/2-inch exterior-grade plywood sheathing used by Appalachian Sheds, followed by the appropriate WRB, flashing and starter details. Painted engineered-wood exterior. Field painting is separate unless included in the Turnkey Exterior Finish Package. Cottages, studios, backyard offices, pool houses and custom buildings designed to complement the home. See selected building model and size pricing.

Siding availability, colors, profiles, finishes and pricing may vary by building model, size and current material availability. Final specifications are confirmed in the written project scope.

Choose by Priority

What Matters Most to You?

Rather than searching for one universal “best” siding, start with the exterior characteristic that matters most for your building.

I Want a Simple Traditional Shed Exterior

Start with LP SmartSide Vertical Panel or Roseburg DuraTemp. Both create clean vertical proportions without the deeper raised lines of board-and-batten.

I Want More Architectural Detail

LP SmartSide Board & Batten adds raised battens, deeper shadows and more visual dimension to cottages, studios and custom structures.

I Want a Residential Horizontal Look

Choose between Georgia-Pacific Forest Ridge Vinyl Lap and LP SmartSide Lap depending upon whether you prefer vinyl or an engineered-wood exterior.

I Want Real-Wood Plywood Construction

Roseburg DuraTemp is a plywood-based siding panel with a rough-sawn exterior face and traditional wood-building character.

I Want Lower Routine Finish Maintenance

Forest Ridge Vinyl Lap avoids the regular field painting or staining associated with painted wood and engineered-wood siding surfaces.

I Want the Building to Complement My Home

Forest Ridge Vinyl Lap or LP SmartSide Lap generally provide the most familiar residential horizontal siding appearance.

Structural Siding Panels

The Siding Can Also Be the Wall Skin

LP SmartSide Vertical Panel and Roseburg DuraTemp can perform both the exterior-siding and continuous structural wall-skin functions in qualifying installations. An additional plywood layer is not automatically required simply to provide siding backing.

Applied Siding & Cladding

The Finished Siding Goes Over a Prepared Wall

For Appalachian Sheds' Board & Batten, Forest Ridge Vinyl Lap and LP SmartSide Lap systems, the wall is first sheathed with full 1/2-inch exterior-grade plywood and then prepared for the applicable weather-management and siding system.

Field Painting & Staining Are Not Included in Standard Pricing

Unless specifically included in the written project scope, field painting, staining and general exterior finish caulking are not included in the standard building price. Appalachian Sheds can provide an optional Turnkey Exterior Finish Package.

Doors supplied unfinished or requiring field finishing must be sealed or painted within 30 days of construction unless door finishing is included in the written project scope or the written project scope specifies otherwise.

Review the Details

Return to Any Siding System

Each detailed section explains installation, backing, architectural character and recommended applications.

LP SmartSide Vertical Panel Siding

Clean vertical structural panel siding for straightforward traditional exterior character.

Review Option 01
Roseburg DuraTemp Wood Siding

Real-wood plywood structural siding with a traditional rough-sawn exterior appearance.

Review Option 02
LP SmartSide Board & Batten Siding

Dimensional vertical siding over Appalachian's full plywood-backed wall assembly.

Review Option 03
Georgia-Pacific Forest Ridge Vinyl Lap

Residential horizontal vinyl cladding over a fully sheathed and weather-prepared wall.

Review Option 04
LP SmartSide Lap Siding

Horizontal engineered-wood siding for refined residential and cottage-inspired buildings.

Review Option 05
Ready for the Next Step?

Choose Your Building — Then Compare the Siding Prices

Siding prices vary by building model and size. Once you have narrowed your exterior preference, use the pricing page for your selected Appalachian building to compare the exact siding prices available for that size and configuration.

Appalachian Sheds Inc. · Siding & Exterior Finishes

Five Distinctive Ways to Finish Your Building

Choose the Exterior Character That Fits Your Building

The siding you choose does more than establish color. It determines the texture, shadow lines, architectural character, maintenance profile and construction of the finished exterior. Appalachian Sheds offers five carefully selected siding systems—each different enough to give you a meaningful choice without turning the process into an overwhelming catalog.

Start With the Look You Want

Some homeowners want the straightforward vertical character of a traditional wood shed. Others want deeper board-and-batten shadow lines, a residential horizontal lap profile, or the low-maintenance familiarity of vinyl siding.

There is no single siding that is best for every building. The better choice is the siding system that fits the architecture, use, maintenance expectations and appearance you want for your property.

Then Look Behind the Finish

Two buildings can appear equally attractive from the outside and still have very different wall assemblies underneath. That is why every Appalachian siding description also explains how the material is installed, what supports it and what preparation belongs behind the visible finish.

Our Five Siding Systems

Compare the Architectural Character First

Use these five choices as a starting point. Each detailed section explains the appearance, construction, backing, installation method and best applications for that siding.

01

LP SmartSide Vertical Panel Siding

Structural Engineered-Wood Panel

Clean vertical lines and traditional shed or barn character without applied battens. A straightforward engineered-wood exterior that allows doors, windows and rooflines to remain the primary architectural features.

Wall System Qualifying structural siding panel can form the continuous exterior wall skin.
Explore Vertical Panel
02

Roseburg DuraTemp Wood Siding

Real-Wood Plywood Structural Siding

A plywood-based siding panel with a durable hardboard face and traditional rough-sawn character. Particularly well suited to classic sheds, barns, workshops and other buildings where authentic wood character matters.

Wall System The DuraTemp plywood siding panel itself can provide the structural exterior wall skin.
Explore DuraTemp
03

LP SmartSide Board & Batten Siding

Architectural Vertical Siding System

Vertical siding with raised battens creates deeper shadow lines and greater architectural dimension for cottages, studios, pool houses, barns and premium custom buildings.

Wall System Applied over Appalachian Sheds' full 1/2-inch exterior-grade plywood-sheathed wall.
Explore Board & Batten
04

Georgia-Pacific Forest Ridge Vinyl Lap Siding

Low-Maintenance Horizontal Cladding

Traditional residential horizontal lap styling with the low routine maintenance associated with vinyl. A natural choice when the backyard building should coordinate with a conventionally sided home.

Wall System Vinyl cladding installed over full 1/2-inch exterior-grade plywood, WRB and flashing.
Explore Forest Ridge Vinyl
05

LP SmartSide Lap Siding

Premium Horizontal Engineered Wood

Horizontal engineered-wood siding for a refined residential or cottage-inspired exterior. Particularly effective on studios, offices, pool houses and other buildings designed to visually complement the home.

Wall System Installed by Appalachian Sheds over full 1/2-inch exterior-grade plywood and weather preparation.
Explore LP Lap Siding
Construction Matters

What's Behind the Siding?

The answer depends upon the siding. Some exterior products are structural siding panels themselves. Others are finish materials that depend upon a separately sheathed and weather-prepared wall underneath.

Structural Siding Panels

LP SmartSide Vertical Panel and Roseburg DuraTemp can serve as the continuous structural exterior wall panel in qualifying installations. The siding panel itself therefore performs both an exterior-finish and structural wall-skin function.

Applied Siding & Cladding

LP SmartSide Board & Batten, Georgia-Pacific Forest Ridge Vinyl and Appalachian's LP SmartSide Lap system are installed over a separately prepared continuous wall surface.

Appalachian Sheds Standard: When a siding system uses separate structural wall sheathing, Appalachian Sheds uses full 1/2-inch exterior-grade plywood. We make that specification visible because the wall behind the siding is an important part of the building—even though it disappears from view when construction is complete.

Exterior Trim & Architectural Finish

LP SmartSide Trim & Fascia

The siding establishes the broad exterior surface, but the trim defines the architecture. Corner boards, door trim, window trim, fascia and other exterior details create the lines that frame the building and give it a finished appearance.

Appalachian Sheds uses LP SmartSide engineered-wood trim products where our design calls for painted exterior trim. LP offers the visual character of traditional wood trim with the consistency of an engineered product specifically manufactured for exterior exposure.

The system is available in Cedar Texture and Brushed Smooth profiles, multiple widths and thicknesses, and long 16-foot lengths that can reduce joints and visible seams on many building applications.

Engineered Consistency Manufactured widths, thicknesses and textures provide a predictable exterior-trim profile from piece to piece.
SmartGuard Protection Engineered for resistance to termites and fungal decay and protection from common exterior weather exposure.
16-Foot Lengths Long trim boards can reduce joints and seams and help create cleaner continuous architectural lines.
Coordinated Appearance Cedar Texture, Brushed Smooth and multiple finish choices make it easy to coordinate or contrast with the siding.
How Does LP SmartSide Trim Compare With Natural Cedar?

Western Red Cedar remains a respected premium exterior wood and can provide excellent service when properly selected, detailed, finished and maintained. The difference is predictability and upkeep. Natural cedar changes appearance as it weathers, and exterior stains or coatings require periodic inspection and renewal. LP SmartSide Trim provides a manufactured, treated and paint-ready alternative with consistent dimensions, coordinated textures and long available lengths. For Appalachian Sheds' painted trim applications, those characteristics make LP SmartSide Trim & Fascia an excellent fit.

Quick Decision Guide

Start With the Exterior Character You Prefer

Clean & Traditional LP SmartSide Vertical Panel
Real-Wood Character Roseburg DuraTemp
Architectural & Dimensional LP Board & Batten
Residential & Low Maintenance Forest Ridge Vinyl Lap
Residential Engineered Wood LP SmartSide Lap

Siding & Exterior Finishes · Option 01

LP SmartSide Vertical Panel Siding

Clean Vertical Lines · Engineered-Wood Construction

LP SmartSide Vertical Panel Siding gives an Appalachian building the straightforward character of traditional vertical wood siding with the consistency of an engineered exterior panel. This option refers to qualifying large-format LP SmartSide structural Panel Siding—not the separate nonstructural LP SmartSide Vertical Siding used in our Board & Batten assembly. Its clean lines work especially well on classic sheds, garden buildings, workshops, barns and other structures where the architecture should remain simple, substantial and timeless.

A Traditional Exterior Without Excess Decoration

Vertical panel siding creates strong proportions without competing with the building itself. Rooflines, doors, windows, trim, porches and overhangs remain the primary architectural features while the siding provides a consistent wood-grain background.

For homeowners who want an Appalachian shed or small building to look purposeful rather than ornamental, this is one of the most versatile exterior treatments we offer.

Vertical Profile Creates the familiar proportions associated with traditional sheds, barns and utility buildings.
Engineered Wood Manufactured as an engineered exterior siding panel rather than a thin decorative surface treatment.
Color Flexibility Works naturally with warm neutrals, greens, earth tones and contrasting trim combinations.
Clean Detailing Allows windows, doors, fascia, corner boards and other architectural details to stand out clearly.
How We Install It

The Wall Behind the Finish Matters

LP SmartSide Vertical Panel Siding is different from an applied lap siding, vinyl cladding or the nonstructural LP SmartSide Vertical Siding used in our Board & Batten system. Qualifying large-format LP SmartSide Panel Siding is designed so the panel itself can form the structural exterior skin of the framed wall when installed according to the manufacturer's requirements.

The panels are installed vertically over properly spaced framing with the required panel spacing, fastening, exterior clearances, edge treatment and flashing details. Because the panel itself can provide the continuous structural wall surface, a second layer of plywood is not automatically required simply to support this siding.

Typical Appalachian Wall Assembly

Siding Type Qualifying large-format structural engineered-wood vertical panel siding
Primary Backing Properly framed wall; qualifying panels may be installed directly to structural framing
Preparation Correct panel spacing, fastening, flashing, sealed exposed edges and required exterior clearances
Orientation Vertical panel installation
Moisture Details Weather-resistive and flashing details appropriate to the specific building assembly and application

Appalachian Sheds Standard: When a siding assembly requires or specifies separate wall sheathing, we use full 1/2-inch exterior-grade plywood as our wall sheathing standard rather than relying on intermittent furring or minimum-thickness sheet products.

Well Suited For

  • Traditional storage sheds
  • Garden sheds and garden buildings
  • Workshops and equipment buildings
  • Barn-inspired structures
  • Buildings where clean vertical proportions are preferred

Why Homeowners Choose It

  • Traditional wood-building appearance
  • Simple vertical lines without applied battens
  • Engineered-wood exterior construction
  • Broad flexibility in siding and trim colors
  • Works with both understated and contrasting trim schemes

Vertical Panel or Board & Batten?

These are intentionally offered as two different exterior treatments. LP SmartSide Vertical Panel Siding creates the cleaner and simpler appearance. LP SmartSide Board & Batten adds raised vertical battens that produce deeper shadow lines and greater architectural dimension. Customers wanting a straightforward traditional exterior will often prefer Vertical Panel Siding; customers wanting a more pronounced architectural treatment may prefer Board & Batten.

Technical Installation Note

This option is based on qualifying LP SmartSide structural Panel Siding and should not be confused with the separate nonstructural LP SmartSide Vertical Siding used in Appalachian Sheds' Board & Batten assembly. Panel Siding installation requirements vary by panel series, framing spacing, structural application and project conditions. Qualifying panel siding may be attached directly to structural framing or to approved wood structural panel sheathing when permitted by the applicable product instructions. Final fastening, flashing, spacing, clearance and moisture-management details are determined by the specific product and building assembly used on the project.

Siding & Exterior Finishes · Option 02

Roseburg DuraTemp Wood Siding

Real Wood Construction · Rough-Sawn Cedar Character

Roseburg DuraTemp combines the strength of a plywood siding panel with a durable hardboard face and the textured appearance of rough-sawn cedar. It is especially well suited to traditional sheds, barns, workshops and other backyard buildings where genuine wood character and structural simplicity are both important.

A Real-Wood Siding Panel Built for Outdoor Structures

DuraTemp is not a thin decorative cladding placed over another exterior wall surface. It is a plywood-based real-wood siding panel manufactured specifically for exterior applications.

The hardboard face provides the rough-sawn visual character associated with traditional cedar siding while the plywood construction gives the panel the structural qualities needed for many shed and barn wall applications.

Real Wood Plywood-based exterior siding rather than vinyl, fiber cement or an OSB-based decorative surface.
Rough-Sawn Look A textured hardboard face provides the visual character of traditional rough-sawn cedar siding.
Structural Panel Qualifying DuraTemp panels can form the continuous exterior structural skin of the framed wall.
Paintable Finish Designed to accept an appropriate exterior coating system for long-term color and weather protection.
How We Install It

The Siding Panel Is Also the Wall Skin

Roseburg DuraTemp is a structural plywood siding panel. When the selected panel span rating matches the wall framing layout, the siding can be installed vertically directly over the structural wall framing rather than requiring another layer of plywood solely to support the siding.

The panels are installed with their edges supported by framing and with the manufacturer's required expansion spacing, corrosion-resistant fastening, exterior clearances and finish preparation. This creates a continuous real-wood exterior wall surface without adding an unnecessary second structural panel behind it.

Typical Appalachian Wall Assembly

Siding Type Real-wood plywood structural siding panel with hardboard face
Primary Backing Properly framed structural wall; qualifying panels may install directly over the framing
Panel Support Panel edges and ends are supported by framing, with framing spacing matched to the panel span rating
Preparation Required panel spacing, corrosion-resistant fasteners, exterior clearances, sealed edges and proper finish preparation
Orientation Vertical panel installation

Important distinction: DuraTemp itself is already a plywood-based structural siding panel. For this wall system, adding another layer of plywood merely as siding backing would normally duplicate the structural panel that DuraTemp already provides.

Well Suited For

  • Traditional storage sheds
  • Garden sheds and garden buildings
  • Workshops and equipment buildings
  • Barn-inspired structures
  • Buildings where authentic wood character is preferred

Why Homeowners Choose It

  • Real-wood plywood construction
  • Traditional rough-sawn exterior texture
  • Structural siding and exterior finish in one panel
  • Suitable for painted exterior color schemes
  • Long-established use on sheds, barns and residential structures

DuraTemp or LP SmartSide Vertical Panel?

Both provide a clean vertical exterior and both can function as structural siding panels in qualifying installations, but the materials are different. DuraTemp is built around a real plywood panel with a hardboard face and a rough-sawn cedar appearance. LP SmartSide Vertical Panel is an engineered-wood siding product manufactured through LP's SmartGuard process. The choice is therefore less about which one is “better” and more about which material construction and exterior character best fit the building.

Technical Installation Note

Roseburg permits DuraTemp siding panels to be installed vertically directly over wall framing when the framing spacing does not exceed the span rating shown on the panel. Panel edges and ends are supported by framing, appropriate expansion spacing is maintained, corrosion-resistant fasteners are used, and the siding is finished and maintained according to the manufacturer's current instructions. Specific installation requirements remain subject to the particular panel selected and the final building assembly.

Siding & Exterior Finishes · Option 03

LP SmartSide Board & Batten Siding

Dimensional Vertical Siding · Full Plywood-Backed Wall Assembly

LP SmartSide Board & Batten gives an Appalachian building a more architectural vertical exterior with deep shadow lines, raised battens and the character associated with traditional barns, cottages and modern farmhouse design. Unlike structural panel siding, our board-and-batten system is installed as an applied siding assembly over a fully sheathed exterior wall.

More Depth Than a Flat Vertical Panel

Board-and-batten siding gets its distinctive appearance from the relationship between wider vertical siding boards and narrower raised battens. Those battens create deeper shadow lines and a stronger sense of craftsmanship than a simple flat panel exterior.

It is especially effective on buildings with pronounced rooflines, porches, transom windows, premium doors, timber details and other architectural features where the siding should contribute to the overall design rather than simply cover the wall.

Deep Shadow Lines Raised battens add visible depth and dimension that flat vertical panel siding does not provide.
Architectural Detail Pairs naturally with premium doors, windows, porches, roof overhangs and timber accents.
Engineered Wood Uses LP SmartSide engineered-wood siding and trim components for a coordinated exterior system.
Solid Wall Backing Installed over a continuously sheathed wall rather than depending on intermittent horizontal furring.
How We Install It

A Fully Sheathed Wall Comes First

LP SmartSide Vertical Siding is an applied siding product rather than a structural wall panel. LP requires this system to be installed over continuous wood structural panel sheathing with the appropriate weather-resistive barrier behind the siding.

Appalachian Sheds prepares that wall with full 1/2-inch exterior-grade plywood sheathing. The weather-resistive layer and flashing details are installed over the prepared wall, followed by the vertical LP SmartSide siding and properly laid-out LP battens that create the finished board-and-batten appearance.

This means the exterior is supported by a continuous plywood-backed wall assembly rather than treating widely spaced furring strips as the primary siding support.

Typical Appalachian Wall Assembly

Siding Type Nonstructural LP SmartSide Vertical Siding with applied LP SmartSide battens
Wall Backing Full 1/2-inch exterior-grade plywood sheathing over the structural wall framing
Moisture Layer Properly installed weather-resistive barrier integrated with window, door and wall flashing
Finish Layer Vertical LP SmartSide siding installed over the prepared wall
Architectural Detail LP SmartSide battens installed vertically to create the finished board-and-batten profile

Appalachian Sheds Standard: LP calls for a minimum 7/16-category wood structural panel behind its Vertical Siding. Appalachian Sheds instead uses full 1/2-inch exterior-grade plywood as our continuous wall-sheathing specification for this siding system.

From the Framing Out

Understanding the Board & Batten Wall

The finished battens are only the outermost architectural detail. The performance of the exterior begins with the complete wall assembly behind them.

1 Wall Framing The structural framework that establishes the wall.
2 1/2" Plywood Continuous exterior-grade plywood sheathing across the framed wall.
3 Weather Layer WRB and flashing details integrated into the exterior wall assembly.
4 Vertical Siding LP SmartSide Vertical Siding applied over the prepared wall.
5 Raised Battens LP trim battens create the characteristic depth and vertical shadow lines.

Well Suited For

  • Country cottage and farmhouse-inspired buildings
  • Premium garden buildings
  • Pool houses and backyard retreats
  • Studios and backyard offices
  • Barns and larger custom buildings
  • Projects where architectural appearance is a priority

Why Homeowners Choose It

  • Greater architectural depth than flat panel siding
  • Distinctive vertical shadow lines
  • Traditional barn and cottage character
  • Engineered-wood siding and trim components
  • Full plywood-backed Appalachian wall assembly
  • Strong compatibility with contrasting trim colors

Board & Batten or Vertical Panel?

Although both create strong vertical lines, the two Appalachian siding systems are constructed differently. LP SmartSide Vertical Panel Siding uses a structural panel that can form the exterior wall skin itself in qualifying applications. Our LP SmartSide Board & Batten system uses separate Vertical Siding and raised battens installed over a fully prepared 1/2-inch exterior-grade plywood-sheathed wall. The result is greater visual depth, stronger shadow lines and a more architectural exterior.

Technical Installation Note

LP SmartSide Vertical Siding is not rated as structural siding and is intended for installation over continuous wood structural panel sheathing. LP currently specifies a minimum 7/16-category wood structural panel and a properly installed weather-resistive barrier behind the siding. Appalachian Sheds' specification for this wall system is full 1/2-inch exterior-grade plywood sheathing, followed by the appropriate moisture-management and flashing details, LP SmartSide Vertical Siding, and LP SmartSide trim battens installed according to the applicable product instructions.

Siding & Exterior Finishes · Option 04

Georgia-Pacific Forest Ridge Vinyl Lap Siding

Traditional Horizontal Lap · Low-Maintenance Exterior

Georgia-Pacific Forest Ridge gives an Appalachian building the familiar horizontal lines of traditional residential lap siding with the low-maintenance advantages of vinyl. The finished appearance is clean and residential, but the quality of the wall beneath the vinyl is just as important as the siding itself.

A More Residential Exterior Character

Forest Ridge differs visually from our vertical wood and engineered-wood siding options. Its horizontal lap profile creates the familiar appearance commonly seen on homes, cottages and residential accessory buildings.

That makes it particularly attractive when the goal is to coordinate the backyard building with the architecture of the home or create a cleaner, lower-maintenance residential appearance.

Traditional Lap Horizontal siding courses create the familiar proportions of conventional residential siding.
Low Maintenance Does not require routine scraping, painting or staining to maintain the exterior finish.
Wood-Grain Finish A textured surface gives the siding more visual character than a completely smooth vinyl panel.
Continuous Backing Installed over a fully sheathed, weather-prepared wall rather than treated as a structural wall material.
How We Install It

Vinyl Is the Finish — Not the Wall

Forest Ridge Vinyl Lap Siding is an exterior cladding. It does not replace structural wall sheathing and should be installed over a smooth, flat and stable wall surface.

Appalachian Sheds first sheathes the framed wall with full 1/2-inch exterior-grade plywood. The wall is then prepared with the appropriate weather-resistive barrier and flashing before starter strips, corner components, trim channels and the horizontal vinyl siding courses are installed.

The result is a finished vinyl exterior supported by a continuous plywood-backed wall rather than asking the vinyl itself—or intermittent framing—to perform a job it was never designed to do.

Typical Appalachian Wall Assembly

Siding Type Nonstructural Georgia-Pacific Forest Ridge vinyl exterior cladding
Wall Backing Full 1/2-inch exterior-grade plywood sheathing over the structural wall framing
Moisture Layer Continuous weather-resistive barrier with properly integrated flashing at openings and transitions
Accessories Starter strips, corners, J-channels and other required vinyl trim components
Finish Layer Horizontal Forest Ridge Traditional Lap siding installed with proper fastening and movement allowance

Appalachian Sheds Standard: Vinyl siding can be installed over several approved sheathing materials. Appalachian Sheds uses full 1/2-inch exterior-grade plywood as our continuous wall backing rather than reducing the wall assembly to minimum-thickness OSB.

From the Framing Out

Understanding the Vinyl-Sided Wall

The vinyl is the visible finish. The strength, flatness and moisture preparation of the wall beneath it are established before the first siding course is installed.

1 Wall Framing The structural wall framework is built straight and true.
2 1/2" Plywood Continuous exterior-grade plywood creates the solid wall backing.
3 Weather Barrier WRB and flashing help manage incidental water behind the siding.
4 Trim System Starter, corners and channels establish the perimeter and receiving points.
5 Vinyl Lap Siding Horizontal Forest Ridge courses complete the visible exterior.

Well Suited For

  • Backyard buildings designed to complement vinyl-sided homes
  • Garden buildings and cottages
  • Pool houses and backyard retreats
  • Traditional storage sheds
  • Projects where low routine exterior maintenance is a priority

Why Homeowners Choose It

  • Traditional horizontal residential appearance
  • No routine exterior painting or staining
  • Weather- and pest-resistant vinyl material
  • Wood-grain surface texture
  • Wide range of siding colors
  • Full plywood-backed Appalachian wall assembly

Forest Ridge Traditional Lap Profiles

Forest Ridge is available in traditional horizontal lap profiles, including Double 4-inch and Double 5-inch configurations. Both create a conventional residential siding appearance; the difference is primarily the width and visual scale of the exposed courses.

The siding has a nominal .042-inch material thickness and a wood-grain finish. Color availability varies by profile, and some premium colors may carry an additional material cost.

Technical Installation Note

Georgia-Pacific installation guidance states that vinyl siding should be applied over sheathing that provides a smooth, flat and stable surface and should not be applied directly to wall studs without sheathing. The sheathed wall is prepared with a weather-resistive barrier and integrated flashing before vinyl siding and accessories are installed. Appalachian Sheds' wall-sheathing specification for this siding system is full 1/2-inch exterior-grade plywood.

Siding & Exterior Finishes · Option 05

LP SmartSide Lap Siding

Premium Horizontal Siding · Plywood-Backed Wall Assembly

LP SmartSide Lap Siding gives an Appalachian building the refined horizontal proportions of traditional residential wood siding while retaining the durability and consistency of an engineered-wood exterior. It is an excellent choice when the goal is to make a shed, cottage, studio, pool house or custom backyard building feel more closely related to the architecture of a home.

A More Residential Engineered-Wood Exterior

Horizontal lap siding changes the character of a backyard structure immediately. Rather than emphasizing traditional shed or barn construction, the overlapping horizontal courses create a more residential, cottage-inspired exterior.

LP SmartSide Lap Siding is particularly effective on buildings with premium windows, fiberglass doors, porches, extended overhangs and other architectural details where the finished structure is intended to complement the home rather than simply function as storage.

Horizontal Profile Overlapping horizontal courses create familiar residential and cottage proportions.
Engineered Wood Provides the character of painted wood siding in an engineered exterior product.
Texture Choices Available in Cedar Texture or Brushed Smooth depending upon the selected product and finish.
Solid Wall Backing Appalachian Sheds installs the system over full 1/2-inch exterior-grade plywood sheathing.
How We Install It

We Build the Wall Before We Install the Lap Siding

LP permits certain SmartSide Lap Siding products to be installed directly to properly spaced structural wall studs. Appalachian Sheds standardizes on a continuously sheathed wall assembly for this siding system.

We first sheath the framed wall with full 1/2-inch exterior-grade plywood, creating a continuous, solid exterior wall surface. The appropriate weather-resistive barrier and flashing are then installed before the starter detail and overlapping horizontal LP SmartSide siding courses are applied.

This gives the lap siding a continuous plywood-backed wall rather than depending on direct-to-stud attachment or intermittent secondary framing as the primary support surface.

Typical Appalachian Wall Assembly

Siding Type Horizontal LP SmartSide engineered-wood lap siding
Wall Backing Full 1/2-inch exterior-grade plywood sheathing over the structural wall framing
Moisture Layer Properly installed weather-resistive barrier and integrated flashing
Starter Detail Proper starter strip and first-course preparation establish the required siding angle
Finish Layer Horizontal LP SmartSide lap courses installed with required overlap, fastening and clearances

Appalachian Sheds Standard: LP permits both direct-to-stud installation in qualifying applications and installation over minimum 7/16-category structural sheathing. Appalachian Sheds instead uses full 1/2-inch exterior-grade plywood as the continuous wall-sheathing specification for this siding system.

From the Framing Out

Understanding the LP Lap-Sided Wall

The horizontal siding is the visible exterior layer. The complete wall beneath it provides the structural backing and moisture-management foundation for the finished system.

1 Wall Framing The structural framework establishes the wall geometry and support.
2 1/2" Plywood Continuous exterior-grade plywood creates the solid wall backing.
3 Weather Barrier WRB and flashing manage incidental moisture behind the siding.
4 Starter Detail The starter establishes the correct angle and position of the first siding course.
5 LP Lap Siding Overlapping horizontal engineered-wood courses complete the exterior.

Well Suited For

  • Country cottages and premium garden buildings
  • Backyard offices and studios
  • Pool houses and backyard retreats
  • Custom buildings designed to complement the home
  • Projects where a residential exterior appearance is a priority

Why Homeowners Choose It

  • Residential horizontal siding appearance
  • Engineered-wood construction
  • Cedar Texture or Brushed Smooth finish options
  • Strong compatibility with contrasting trim
  • Works naturally with premium doors and windows
  • Full plywood-backed Appalachian wall assembly

Cedar Texture or Brushed Smooth

Cedar Texture provides a more pronounced wood-grain appearance for homeowners who want the character of traditional painted wood siding.

Brushed Smooth creates a quieter, cleaner surface that can feel more contemporary while still retaining the proportions of horizontal wood lap siding.

Availability of texture, width, factory finish and color depends upon the specific LP SmartSide product selected for the project.

Technical Installation Note

LP's current instructions permit 38 Series Lap Siding to be attached directly to studs spaced a maximum of 16 inches on center and 76 Series Lap Siding to studs spaced a maximum of 24 inches on center. Both may also be installed over minimum 7/16-category wood structural panel sheathing with framing spaced within the manufacturer's limits. Appalachian Sheds' wall-sheathing specification for this siding system is full 1/2-inch exterior-grade plywood, followed by the applicable weather-resistive barrier, flashing, starter detail, fastening, overlap and exterior clearance requirements.

Siding & Exterior Finishes · Final Comparison

Which Siding Is Right for Your Building?

Compare Appearance, Construction & Finish Requirements

All five Appalachian siding systems can produce an attractive, durable building. The meaningful differences are architectural character, wall construction, maintenance expectations and how the exterior is finished. Use this guide to narrow the choices before reviewing model-specific pricing.

LP SmartSide Vertical Panel Clean & Traditional
Roseburg DuraTemp Real-Wood Character
LP Board & Batten Architectural & Dimensional
Forest Ridge Vinyl Lap Residential & Low Maintenance
LP SmartSide Lap Residential Engineered Wood
Side-by-Side Comparison

Five Siding Systems — One Clear View

On smaller screens, swipe or scroll horizontally to see the complete comparison.

Siding Exterior Character Wall System Wall Backing Maintenance / Finish Best Suited For Pricing Position
LP SmartSide Vertical Panel Siding Clean vertical lines with straightforward traditional shed and barn character. Qualifying structural engineered-wood siding panel. The structural siding panel itself can form the continuous exterior wall skin in qualifying applications. Field finish requirements depend upon the exact product supplied. Standard ASI building pricing does not include field painting unless specifically stated. Classic sheds, garden buildings, workshops, barns and traditional storage structures. See selected building model and size pricing.
Roseburg DuraTemp Wood Siding Traditional rough-sawn wood character with a substantial shed and barn appearance. Real-wood plywood structural siding panel with hardboard face. The DuraTemp plywood siding panel can serve as the continuous structural exterior wall skin. Requires an appropriate exterior coating system and ongoing finish maintenance. Field finishing is separate unless purchased. Classic sheds, barns, workshops, equipment buildings and traditional wood-style structures. See selected building model and size pricing.
LP SmartSide Board & Batten Siding Deep vertical shadow lines with greater architectural depth and cottage or barn character. Applied vertical siding and batten system. Full 1/2-inch exterior-grade plywood sheathing used by Appalachian Sheds, followed by the appropriate weather preparation. Painted engineered-wood exterior. Field painting and general finish caulking are separate unless included in the Turnkey Exterior Finish Package. Country cottages, custom buildings, pool houses, studios, barns and premium backyard structures. See selected building model and size pricing.
Georgia-Pacific Forest Ridge Vinyl Lap Siding Traditional horizontal residential siding appearance. Nonstructural vinyl exterior cladding. Full 1/2-inch exterior-grade plywood sheathing used by Appalachian Sheds, followed by WRB, flashing and vinyl accessories. Vinyl color is integral to the siding and does not require routine field painting or staining. Other trim and door components may still require finishing. Buildings designed to complement vinyl-sided homes, cottages, pool houses and low-maintenance backyard structures. See selected building model and size pricing.
LP SmartSide Lap Siding Refined horizontal engineered-wood appearance with strong residential and cottage character. Applied horizontal engineered-wood lap siding. Full 1/2-inch exterior-grade plywood sheathing used by Appalachian Sheds, followed by the appropriate WRB, flashing and starter details. Painted engineered-wood exterior. Field painting is separate unless included in the Turnkey Exterior Finish Package. Cottages, studios, backyard offices, pool houses and custom buildings designed to complement the home. See selected building model and size pricing.

Siding availability, colors, profiles, finishes and pricing may vary by building model, size and current material availability. Final specifications are confirmed in the written project scope.

Choose by Priority

What Matters Most to You?

Rather than searching for one universal “best” siding, start with the exterior characteristic that matters most for your building.

I Want a Simple Traditional Shed Exterior

Start with LP SmartSide Vertical Panel or Roseburg DuraTemp. Both create clean vertical proportions without the deeper raised lines of board-and-batten.

I Want More Architectural Detail

LP SmartSide Board & Batten adds raised battens, deeper shadows and more visual dimension to cottages, studios and custom structures.

I Want a Residential Horizontal Look

Choose between Georgia-Pacific Forest Ridge Vinyl Lap and LP SmartSide Lap depending upon whether you prefer vinyl or an engineered-wood exterior.

I Want Real-Wood Plywood Construction

Roseburg DuraTemp is a plywood-based siding panel with a rough-sawn exterior face and traditional wood-building character.

I Want Lower Routine Finish Maintenance

Forest Ridge Vinyl Lap avoids the regular field painting or staining associated with painted wood and engineered-wood siding surfaces.

I Want the Building to Complement My Home

Forest Ridge Vinyl Lap or LP SmartSide Lap generally provide the most familiar residential horizontal siding appearance.

Structural Siding Panels

The Siding Can Also Be the Wall Skin

LP SmartSide Vertical Panel and Roseburg DuraTemp can perform both the exterior-siding and continuous structural wall-skin functions in qualifying installations. An additional plywood layer is not automatically required simply to provide siding backing.

Applied Siding & Cladding

The Finished Siding Goes Over a Prepared Wall

For Appalachian Sheds' Board & Batten, Forest Ridge Vinyl Lap and LP SmartSide Lap systems, the wall is first sheathed with full 1/2-inch exterior-grade plywood and then prepared for the applicable weather-management and siding system.

Field Painting & Staining Are Not Included in Standard Pricing

Unless specifically included in the written project scope, field painting, staining and general exterior finish caulking are not included in the standard building price. Appalachian Sheds can provide an optional Turnkey Exterior Finish Package.

Doors supplied unfinished or requiring field finishing must be sealed or painted within 30 days of construction unless door finishing is included in the written project scope or the written project scope specifies otherwise.

Review the Details

Return to Any Siding System

Each detailed section explains installation, backing, architectural character and recommended applications.

LP SmartSide Vertical Panel Siding

Clean vertical structural panel siding for straightforward traditional exterior character.

Review Option 01
Roseburg DuraTemp Wood Siding

Real-wood plywood structural siding with a traditional rough-sawn exterior appearance.

Review Option 02
LP SmartSide Board & Batten Siding

Dimensional vertical siding over Appalachian's full plywood-backed wall assembly.

Review Option 03
Georgia-Pacific Forest Ridge Vinyl Lap

Residential horizontal vinyl cladding over a fully sheathed and weather-prepared wall.

Review Option 04
LP SmartSide Lap Siding

Horizontal engineered-wood siding for refined residential and cottage-inspired buildings.

Review Option 05
Ready for the Next Step?

Choose Your Building — Then Compare the Siding Prices

Siding prices vary by building model and size. Once you have narrowed your exterior preference, use the pricing page for your selected Appalachian building to compare the exact siding prices available for that size and configuration.