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Shed cladding and materials compared
The cladding is the outer skin of the shed. It affects strength, weather resistance, warmth and price.
The three timber cladding styles
A Garden Buildings Direct guide covers the three most common wooden cladding types for sheds.
Overlap
Boards are laid diagonally, each overlapping the one beneath. It is budget-friendly, a good start for first-time owners and has a traditional look. The downsides, per the guide: boards are around 7 mm thick, leaving small gaps that let air through, it is not as strong as the other options and it holds heat less well.
Shiplap
Boards have an L-shaped edge so each partly overlaps the next, creating a flat vertical wall with no protruding edges. The guide lists clean exterior, good weather resistance and a low price as pros. The con: thinner overall than tongue and groove, so it insulates less well.
Tongue and groove (T&G)
Each board has a tongue on one side and a groove on the other, so boards plug together with no visible gaps. The guide says boards are 11 mm to 15 mm thick, making it the best option for insulation and a likely longer lifespan, but it costs more than shiplap or overlap.
| Overlap | Shiplap | Tongue and groove | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price | Lowest | Low to mid | Higher |
| Strength | Lower | Mid | Highest |
| Draughts | Gaps possible | Fewer | Fewest |
| Best for | Basic storage | General sheds | Workshops, rooms, longer life |
Frame and floor
The cladding is only part of the story. Look at the framing timber size, how the frame is joined, and the floor. A solid, raised floor with proper bearers is better than thin boards sitting on a few supports. Ask the supplier for timber dimensions, not just the nominal size.
Treatment: pressure-treated and dip-treated
Timber is often sold as dip-treated (a coating applied after cutting) or pressure-treated (preservative forced into the wood). Pressure treatment is generally considered more durable, but the sources we opened didn't compare them, so check what the supplier's guarantee actually covers and for how long. Either way, you will need to re-treat the outside every so often: see maintenance.
Roof coverings
Common roof coverings are mineral felt, heavy-duty felt, shingles and corrugated bitumen or metal sheets. A thicker covering lasts longer. Roof overhang helps protect walls. Check how the roof boards are fixed and whether the felt is included.
Other materials
- Plastic or resin: low maintenance, won't rot, but less customisable and often less secure.
- Metal: tough, but can dent, rust and swing in temperature.
- Insulated panels or SIPs: used for garden offices. See garden offices.
How to choose
- Basic storage on a tight budget: overlap, if you accept the limits.
- General garden shed: shiplap is a good balance.
- Workshop, hobby room or long life: tongue and groove.
- Think about the base too: bases.
Compare the options against your budget on sizes and prices.
Prices on this page are typical estimates for November 2026, not quotes. They vary with size, timber grade, supplier, delivery, VAT and installation. Check current prices before you decide.
Frequently asked questions
Which cladding is best for a shed?
Tongue and groove is the strongest and best for insulation, but costs more. Shiplap is a good middle option and overlap is the cheapest.
Why is overlap cladding cheaper?
It uses thinner boards, around 7 mm per one supplier guide, with less strength and warmth.
Is pressure-treated timber better?
It is generally regarded as more durable, but check the supplier's guarantee. The sources we opened did not compare them.
Does cladding affect insulation?
Yes. Thicker boards with fewer gaps keep more heat in, but a proper insulated room needs insulation fitted.