When severe weather strikes, your shed becomes more than just storage—it becomes a fortress protecting your valuable belongings. Choosing the right siding material can mean the difference between years of reliable protection and costly repairs after every storm.
At Action Buildings, we've seen firsthand how different siding materials perform under extreme conditions. After decades of serving Georgia and Alabama communities, we understand that investing in weather-resistant siding isn't just smart—it's essential for protecting your property and peace of mind.
This guide will help you understand how severe weather impacts sheds, compare the most common siding options, and discover why metal siding consistently outperforms other materials when nature unleashes its fury.
The Real Impact of Severe Weather on Sheds
Severe weather doesn't discriminate. Whether you're dealing with hurricane-force winds, torrential downpours, or extreme temperature swings, your shed faces a constant battle against the elements. Understanding these challenges helps you make an informed decision about siding materials.
Wind Damage and Structural Stress
High winds can reach speeds of over 160 mph during severe storms, creating immense pressure on shed walls. Traditional siding materials often buckle, crack, or detach entirely when subjected to these forces. The structural integrity of your entire shed depends on siding that can withstand and distribute these wind loads effectively.
Water Infiltration and Moisture Problems
Heavy rains and storm surge pose another serious threat. When siding fails to create a proper moisture barrier, water seeps into the structure, leading to:
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Rot and decay in wooden components
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Rust and corrosion on metal hardware
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Mold and mildew growth
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Damage to stored items
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Compromised structural integrity
Temperature Extremes and Material Fatigue
The Southeast experiences dramatic temperature swings, from scorching summer heat to occasional winter freezes. These cycles cause materials to expand and contract repeatedly, leading to:
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Cracking and splitting in rigid materials
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Warping and buckling in heat-sensitive options
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Joint separation and gap formation
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Accelerated aging and deterioration
Pest Infiltration Through Compromised Siding
Severe weather often creates entry points that pests exploit. Damaged siding allows insects, rodents, and other unwanted visitors to access your stored belongings, causing additional damage and creating health hazards.
Understanding these threats emphasizes why choosing durable, weather-resistant siding is crucial for long-term shed performance and value protection.
Comparing Shed Siding Materials: The Complete Breakdown
Not all shed siding materials are created equal. Let's examine how the most popular options perform under severe weather conditions.
Plastic Siding: Budget-Friendly But Limited
Plastic siding appeals to cost-conscious buyers, but its limitations become apparent during severe weather events.
Advantages:
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Low initial cost makes it accessible for tight budgets
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Lightweight material simplifies installation
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Resistant to rust and some forms of corrosion
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Available in various colors and styles
Disadvantages:
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Poor impact resistance: Hail and flying debris can easily crack or puncture plastic panels
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Temperature sensitivity: Extreme heat causes warping, while cold makes the material brittle and prone to cracking
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Limited structural strength: High winds can rip plastic siding from mounting systems
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UV degradation: Prolonged sun exposure causes fading, brittleness, and eventual failure
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Difficult repairs: Matching replacement panels can be challenging as materials age and fade
Plastic siding might survive mild weather, but it often fails when you need protection most—during severe storms and extreme conditions.
Wood Siding: Classic Appeal with High Maintenance
Wood siding offers traditional aesthetics but comes with significant weather-related challenges.
Advantages:
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Natural beauty complements most architectural styles
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Can be painted or stained to match personal preferences
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Provides good insulation properties
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Repairable when properly maintained
Disadvantages:
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Moisture vulnerability: Wood absorbs water, leading to rot, decay, and structural weakness
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Pest attraction: Termites, carpenter ants, and other insects target wooden structures
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High maintenance requirements: Regular staining, sealing, and painting necessary to prevent deterioration
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Fire risk: More susceptible to fire damage than metal alternatives
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Cost escalation: While initial costs may seem reasonable, ongoing maintenance expenses add up quickly
Even treated wood requires constant vigilance and maintenance to withstand severe weather conditions effectively.
Metal Siding: The Superior Weather-Resistant Choice
Metal siding, particularly steel, consistently outperforms other materials in severe weather conditions. Here's why we recommend metal siding for our Georgia and Alabama customers.
Advantages:
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Exceptional durability: Engineered to withstand hurricane-force winds and severe weather conditions
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Impact resistance: Resists damage from hail, flying debris, and other storm-related impacts
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Moisture protection: Creates an effective barrier against water infiltration when properly installed
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Low maintenance: Requires minimal upkeep compared to wood or plastic alternatives
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Pest resistance: Metal doesn't provide food or nesting opportunities for insects or rodents
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Fire resistance: Non-combustible material adds an extra layer of safety
Long-term value: Despite higher initial costs, metal siding provides better return on investment over time
Considerations:
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Higher upfront investment compared to plastic options
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Professional installation recommended for optimal performance
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Potential for minor denting in extreme hail conditions (though structural integrity remains intact)
Why We Choose American-Made Steel at Action Buildings
At Action Buildings, we exclusively use American-made steel in our construction process. This isn't just about supporting domestic manufacturing—it's about quality assurance and performance reliability.
Robotic Assembly for Enhanced Strength
Our robotic assembly process ensures precise construction and consistent quality. This advanced manufacturing approach creates structures with enhanced strength and structural integrity that manual assembly simply can't match.
Corrosion Resistance Technology
Our steel siding undergoes a hot-dipped galvanization process that creates a protective zinc coating. This treatment provides:
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Long-lasting corrosion resistance
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Extended lifespan even in humid coastal environments
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Reduced maintenance requirements
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Consistent appearance over time
This corrosion resistance is particularly important in Georgia and Alabama, where high humidity and occasional salt air exposure from coastal storms can accelerate material deterioration.
Real-Life Performance: Metal Siding Success Stories
We've witnessed countless examples of how metal siding protects our customers' investments during severe weather events.
Hurricane Michael (2018): Coastal Georgia
During Hurricane Michael's devastating path through Georgia, one of our customers near the coast experienced wind speeds exceeding 160 mph. While neighboring structures suffered significant damage, their Action Buildings shed with steel siding remained completely intact. The customer later reported that stored lawn equipment, tools, and seasonal decorations emerged without a single item damaged.
Tornado Outbreak (2021): Alabama
In March 2021, a series of tornadoes swept through Alabama. A customer in Montgomery reported that debris from a destroyed wooden shed next door struck their Action Buildings structure. The steel siding absorbed the impact without penetration, protecting valuable woodworking equipment stored inside. The neighbor's traditional wooden shed was completely destroyed, while our customer's steel-sided shed required only minor cosmetic touch-ups.
Severe Hailstorm (2022): North Georgia
A customer in north Georgia faced a severe hailstorm with golf-ball-sized hail. While vehicles in the area sustained significant damage, their Americana storage building showed only minor superficial marks. The structural integrity remained perfect, and stored items stayed completely protected.
Hurricane Zeta (2020): Alabama Coast
Hurricane Zeta brought destructive winds and storm surge to Alabama's coastal areas. A customer using their Action Buildings structure to store boat equipment and fishing gear reported zero water infiltration despite the building being subjected to driving rain and wind for over eight hours. The steel siding's weather-tight construction prevented any moisture damage.
These real-world examples demonstrate that metal siding doesn't just resist severe weather—it provides reliable protection when your belongings are at greatest risk.
Action Buildings' Weather-Resistant Solutions
We offer several product lines specifically designed to withstand severe weather conditions while providing versatile storage solutions.
Americana Storage Buildings
Our Americana series combines classic aesthetics with modern durability. These buildings feature:
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R*Lap steel siding for maximum weather protection
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18-gauge galvanized steel framing
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Residential-grade steel roofing rated for high winds
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Professional conduit electrical wiring
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Pressure-treated flooring system
Available in multiple sizes and customizable color options, Americana buildings provide reliable protection without compromising visual appeal.
Portable Garages
For larger equipment and vehicles, our Portable Garages offer:
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Heavy-duty roll-up doors designed for frequent use
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Enhanced steel framing for vehicle protection
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Superior weather sealing around all openings
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Spacious interiors for cars, boats, and recreational vehicles
These structures provide the same weather resistance as our storage buildings while accommodating larger items that need protection from the elements.
Lofted Barn Sheds
Our Lofted Barn Sheds maximize storage capacity while maintaining weather resistance:
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Traditional barn aesthetics with modern steel construction
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4-foot lofts for additional storage space
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Steel siding and roofing throughout
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Multiple size options for various property requirements
Greenhouses
Even our Greenhouses incorporate weather-resistant steel framing:
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Steel frame construction for structural integrity
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Polycarbonate panels designed to withstand severe weather
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Proper ventilation systems to prevent storm damage
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TREX composite flooring for moisture resistance
Making Your Investment Count
Choosing weather-resistant siding is about more than just protecting your belongings—it's about making a smart financial decision that pays dividends over time.
Lower Insurance Costs
Many insurance companies recognize the superior protection that metal buildings provide. This recognition often translates to lower premiums for structures with weather-resistant construction. Check with your insurance provider about potential discounts for hurricane-rated buildings.
Reduced Replacement Costs
While plastic and wood siding may require replacement or significant repairs after severe weather events, metal siding typically requires only minor maintenance. This reliability saves you money and hassle when storms strike.
Increased Property Value
Well-constructed outbuildings with weather-resistant siding can add value to your home. Potential buyers recognize the value of durable, low-maintenance structures that won't require immediate attention or replacement.
Peace of Mind Value
Perhaps most importantly, choosing weather-resistant siding provides peace of mind. When severe weather warnings are issued, you can focus on keeping your family safe rather than worrying about property damage.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does metal siding last compared to other materials?
Metal siding, particularly galvanized steel, can last 40-60 years with minimal maintenance. In contrast, plastic siding typically needs replacement after 10-20 years, while wood siding requires significant maintenance every 3-5 years and replacement after 15-25 years.
Will metal siding dent during hailstorms?
While severe hail can cause minor surface denting, metal siding maintains its structural integrity and weather protection. Unlike cracked plastic or damaged wood, small dents don't compromise the siding's ability to protect your belongings.
Is metal siding more expensive than other options?
Metal siding has a higher initial cost, but lower lifetime expenses due to minimal maintenance requirements and exceptional durability. When you factor in replacement costs and ongoing maintenance, metal siding often proves more economical over time.
Can metal siding be customized to match my property?
Yes! We offer multiple color options and styles to complement your home's exterior. Our steel siding can be powder-coated in various colors that won't fade or require repainting like traditional materials.
How does metal siding perform in extreme temperatures?
Metal siding handles temperature extremes exceptionally well. Unlike plastic that becomes brittle in cold or soft in heat, or wood that expands and contracts significantly, metal maintains its shape and protective properties across a wide temperature range.
Choose Protection That Lasts a Lifetime
Severe weather is a fact of life in Georgia and Alabama, but that doesn't mean your belongings have to suffer the consequences. By choosing metal siding for your shed, you're investing in proven protection that will serve you reliably for decades.
At Action Buildings, we've built our reputation on providing hurricane-rated structures that protect what matters most to you. Our American-made steel construction, robotic assembly precision, and corrosion-resistant treatments create structures that don't just survive severe weather—they thrive despite it.
Don't wait until the next severe weather warning to protect your valuable belongings. Explore our complete line of weather-resistant storage buildings and discover how Action Buildings can provide the protection and peace of mind you deserve.
Your investment in quality weather-resistant siding today prevents costly replacements tomorrow. Choose Action Buildings for storage solutions built to last a lifetime.
