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Tiny House Siding – The Ultimate Guide 2023

Tiny house siding will be discussed in detail in this article and what you need to know in 2023 and beyond when making that choice.

Tiny homes are part of a social movement centered on the desire to live simply.

In recent times, tiny houses have exploded in popularity.

This has something to do with the benefits of tiny living.

That said, this lifestyle isn’t for everyone.

Tiny houses are for people that want to live a simple life with fewer possessions, focus on travel, or like the idea of being able to pack up their home and literally go.

A tiny house can be built on wheels or land in a traditional and typical manner.

While many people tend to focus a great deal on the interior of their homes, it’s equally important to consider the exterior.

This is where the tiny house siding comes in.

Siding is the wall cladding that protects your house from elements like sun heat, snow, thunderstorm, rains, and earthquakes.

A house siding is essential because it enthrals the exterior beauty.

It’s the first thing people will notice regardless of whether it’s a big or tiny house.

As a matter of fact, the siding of your house gives it a unique personality.

The siding for a tiny house is not so different from that of a typical home.

In both, the ideal option is the most durable siding.

But the siding option you go for should match the style of your tiny home.

There are so many things you probably don’t know about tiny house siding.

We have people make mistakes that cost them thousands of dollars in the long term.

For that reason, here is your ultimate guide to tiny house siding.

Everything you need to know about tiny house siding is right here, and we have put together comprehensive details.

Without further ado, let us get started!

Contents

How to choose the right tiny house siding material

First things first, you need to find the right material for your tiny house exterior.

Keep in mind; it’s not about picking the coolest one.

The siding should seal and protect your tiny house from pest infestation, moisture and mold.

As such, you want to make sure the siding material is both functional and aesthetically pleasing.

In that case, what is the best siding for a tiny house?

Usually, the top materials commonly used include vinyl, steel, and wood.

What you choose will depend on various factors like the weight of your tiny house, climate, style preference, and of course, budget.

Not sure how to pick the suitable siding material for your tiny house?

The following are the factors to consider before buying tiny house exterior siding.

Climate and environmental factors

This is one of the critically important considerations because you can’t change the climate.

It’s something we have very little control over and thus, must ensure our tiny homes are well protected from the elements.

Heavy rains, thunderstorms, snow, hail, and drought are constant environmental factors.

They can cause significant damage to your tiny house resulting in expensive repairs.

However, you can avoid all this by getting suitable material for siding.

When picking out the exterior material, factor in resistance to rot and moisture, malleability and its expansion.

The landscaping

The landscaping factor might not cross your mind when it comes to siding material.

But it’s equally important.

The outside of your tiny house should be a pleasant reflection of the inside.

Aside from that, you should consider how the exterior of your tiny house blends in with the surroundings.

It would be unfortunate for your house to stand out like a sore thumb.

Lightweight and easily towable

Tiny houses often have a maximum weight limit.

You would want to go for lightweight material, especially when living in a state with strict weight limits.

Vinyl is an excellent option in terms of lightweight material.

However, there is a variety of other materials for siding that won’t add extra weight to your tiny house.

While wood is a timeless option, it’s not ideal for every tiny house owner.

Wood siding can quickly add up to 1,000 lbs on final weight.

Structural integrity during towing

There are limitless options of siding material for a tiny house built on the land.

In this case, you have little to worry about, and it’s even acceptable to focus on design than anything else.

That said, it doesn’t work the same for a tiny house on wheels.

When it comes to a tiny house on wheels, there is a compromise between towability and visual appeal.

You’ll need exterior siding that can withstand wind exposure, constant bumpiness, and vibrations from traveling.

Noncombustible material

Your tiny houses have very little space and thus can easily pose a fire hazard.

The siding should protect your tiny home against fire.

This is especially critical if you live in an area where wildfires are rampant.

Make sure you choose non-combustible siding material.

It’s the right choice for a tiny house that’s located in a wildfire-prone area.

For instance, some people may opt for a tiny house with corrugated metal siding because it’s fireproof.

The best siding materials for a tiny house

Perhaps you have in mind some tiny house exterior ideas, and now you want to narrow down the various options for siding.

Remember, the choice of siding is often based on your budget and house style.

Aside from material and cost, there are other determining factors to seriously consider, like the weight load, ease of installation, durability, critter rating, and so on.

On that note, we will discuss in detail the different options siding options for your tiny home.

These are basically the best cladding for tiny houses on the market.

Cedar Wood Siding

Tiny house cedar siding is a good choice if you want wood siding.

It also blends nicely with mountain environments.

Another thing we like about cedarwood is it has a unique pattern on it that looks gorgeous, whether stained or raw.

Cedar is not only a durable siding material but also eco-friendly and versatile.

You can fashion it into any style that suits you best.

Cedarwood tends to get better with time.

This means your tiny home will retain its aesthetic appeal for quite a long time.

It’s also a notable alternative for a tiny homeowner looking for something that’s low maintenance.

You will be happy to know cedar is naturally resistant to rot and bugs and virtually any other critter.

Therefore, you don’t have to worry about insects like termites eating away at your tiny house.

Since it’s wood, it is susceptible to fires and needs chemical treatment for an extra layer of protection.

Cedar is a bit expensive but makes for the best choice when it comes to wood siding.

Cedarwood siding features

  • The lifespan of 20 years
  • The cost per square foot is $6
  • Weight per square foot is 1.6 lbs
  • 3 stars critter rating

Pros

  • It is bug and rot-resistant
  • Easy to work with and install
  • It lasts longer than other types of wood

Cons

  • It is the most expensive among the wood options
  • It’s not completely bug resistant
  • Requires some degree of maintenance

Pine Wood Siding

Pine is a commonly used wood siding material.

There are plenty of reasons why it’s a popular siding material.

For one thing, Pinewood is affordable.

It’s actually one of the cheapest siding options you’ll get out there.

So if you want a buck or two for your piggybank, pinewood is a notable choice.

Also, it’s durable and aesthetically versatile.

Pinewood doesn’t have the unique patterns found on cedar.

Therefore, tiny homeowners can paint and stain it to look as desired.

That’s why it’s a really nice exterior option.

If installed properly and maintained regularly, your pinewood tiny house siding can last about 10 to 15 years.

It’s strong enough to withstand impacts on the road.

For such a small house, many people prefer to build it themselves.

Well, pine is an option naturally designed for DIYers.

It is malleable, making it super easy for builders to shape.

But remember, pinewood is prone to warping and unexpected expansions.

As such, only pick outboards that are straight from one end to the next.

With that being said, pine is susceptible to rot, especially when it’s not dried or installed properly.

Therefore, it’s vital to stain or paint all sides of the siding before any installation is done.

Also, pay attention to the exposed sides from cuts.

Repainting regularly will help preserve color ad finish the wood.

Features of Pine Wood Siding

  • The lifespan of 10 years
  • The cost per square foot is $3
  • Weight per square foot is 1.5 lbs
  • One star critter rating

Pros

  • Widely available
  • Malleable hence easy to install and work with
  • It’s an inexpensive option
  • Suitable for DIYers
  • Strong and quite durable
  • It is aesthetically versatile

Cons

  • It’s susceptible to rot and bug damage
  • More prone to warping and twisting
  • It doesn’t last as long as the other options

Douglas Fir Wood Siding

Douglas fir wood siding is slightly more expensive than pine wood siding.

However, it comes with a few advantages.

One of them is the fact that Douglas fir has a tighter grain structure and a more stable grain line.

As such, this siding is a bit more durable and less prone to warping or twisting.

It may be a minor advantage, but it definitely makes a significant difference.

That said, Douglas fir is more stable.

This means it’s easier to work with compared to its counterpart, pine wood.

Wood movement is a common issue that affects a good number of homeowners.

Luckily, fir is less likely to move, warp or twist.

Even if it does, it’s not a drastic occurrence often experienced in some wood options.

Similar to pine wood, Douglas fir siding is prone to bug damage.

Therefore, it won’t offer much resistance to destructive insects.

Features of Douglas fir wood siding

  • A lifespan of 15 years
  • The cost per square foot is $4
  • Weight per square foot is 1.8 lbs
  • One star critter rating

Pros

  • There is less wood movement compared to pine
  • Widely available
  • Inexpensive
  • It is easy to install as it requires less work to flex siding into alignment

Cons

  • Susceptible to bug damage
  • Susceptible to rot
  • It’s not as durable as other wood options

Vinyl Siding

Vinyl siding is affordable.

This makes it an attractive alternative for tiny houses across the United States.

Vinyl is lightweight in nature.

Besides that, Vinyl doesn’t rot like some of the natural materials.

This is mainly because it’s resistant to moisture.

For all these reasons, many people opt to build tiny houses with vinyl siding.

You have probably seen companies advertise Vinyl as quite a durable material.

This might be true, but it all comes down to the installation.

This material has a tendency to expand with the fluctuations in temperature.

A poor or loose installation is prone to wind damage.

What happens is wind gets under the cracks left behind and pulls the siding from its sheathing during travel.

This is a significant drawback, so take due note.

Very little maintenance s required to retain the luster look of the Vinyl.

Most of the time, a power wash should be able to clear any mud or dirt on the surface for a tiny house on wheels.

The lightweight nature of Vinyl brings along major benefits like a significant decrease in prices.

For instance, you can easily side your tiny house with Vinyl for as little as $600.

Therefore, if you are tight on cash, vinyl siding is your best bet.

Vinyl siding features

  • A lifespan of 30 years
  • The cost per square foot is $0.85
  • The weight per square foot is 0.45 lbs
  • 3 stars critter rating

Pros

  • Remarkably lightweight
  • Quite affordable
  • Its rot and moisture resistant
  • Durable with proper installation
  • Resistant to bug damage

Cons

  • It has a less premium feel
  • It can come off during towing
  • Flammable and toxic if on fire
  • It can melt or mildew in the event of extreme temperature change

Aluminum Siding

While aluminum siding has plenty of benefits, it’s still not a popular siding material.

Aluminum doesn’t rust, leak or warp.

It will also provide airtight security around the tiny home, effectively keeping out bugs as well as moisture.

Furthermore, aluminum siding is pretty lightweight and durable.

As such, it’s a notable option for the people building a tiny house on wheels.

A tiny house built with aluminum siding can withstand all weather conditions.

One of the drawbacks associated with using aluminium siding is that it dents easily.

It’s also more likely to get scratched.

If you plan on parking your tiny house on wheels near a forested area, aluminum siding might not be a reliable option.

Furthermore, its cost/benefit ratio isn’t reasonable.

You can always find a much better alternative for siding your tiny house at a reasonable cost.

While it has a lot going for it, we would recommend you move along and look elsewhere.

Aluminum siding features

  • A lifespan of 40 years
  • The cost per square foot is $4
  • The weight per square foot is 1.2 lbs
  • 4-star critter rating

Pros

  • Lightweight
  • Bug and rot-resistant
  • It is durable
  • It does not rust, warp, or leak
  • Easy to work with

Cons

  • Higher cost
  • It might require professional installation
  • Less available at the local stores
  • It dents easily

Corrugated Metal Siding

If you want to give your tiny house a clean modernist touch, consider corrugated metal siding.

It might also work for a rustic ranch look.

Corrugated metal sheets are pretty durable and almost indestructible.

They are also large and cover extensive areas quickly.

This means builders are likely to spend less amount of time on a tiny house with corrugated metal siding.

Despite all the benefits of using this material and its strength, it’s pretty affordable.

That’s why tiny house metal siding is an interesting and popular option.

Another advantage of these panels is that they are bug and rot-resistant.

Bugs can be a nuisance and have been known to destroy many houses and cause costly damages.

With corrugated metal siding, you will not see tiny black bugs on the house siding.

It’s also a fireproof material and will protect your home from wildfires.

It’s the perfect siding material for houses in areas prone to wildfires.

Corrugated metal panels are often galvanized.

Therefore, you will not have to worry about rust for a very long time.

If you are one of the people who prefer a rusty, weathered look, go for the non-galvanized panels.

On the downside, these panes can be extremely hard to cut since its metal.

A good rain screen is also a must to prevent it from being a condensing surface.

Corrugated Metal Siding features

  • A lifespan of 40 years
  • The cost per square foot is $1.25
  • The weight per square foot is 1.2 lbs
  • 4 stars critter rating

Pros

  • Extremely durable
  • Bug, rot and fire-resistant
  • Super affordable
  • Covers large areas quickly
  • Resistant to impacts and can withstand warps and dents

Cons

  • Hard to cut because its metal
  • Requires rain screen
  • Moisture issues from condensation
  • Works well with specific design styles

Hardie Board/Cement Board Siding

Hardie board is made up of a mixture of sand, cement and some wood fibers and water to make a substrate.

It’s an impeccable siding material and many homeowners can attest to it.

The people who have used it are impressed and love it.

Hardie board is highly recommended because it’s suitable for almost any design style.

In addition, the material is quite durable and will last a lifetime before you encounter any issues.

Hardie board is manufactured to offer a clean and crisp finish.

The end result will be a gorgeous tiny house exterior.

Keep in mind, it’s a stable material and hence easy to install and work with.

This kind of tiny house siding is also fire resistant.

This makes it a good choice for an area code where wildfires are rampant.

It is rated to be very resistant to any kind of bug damage.

As such, those critters will not be going anywhere near your tiny home.

The installation for hardie board siding involves particular instructions.

As long as it’s installed the right way, this siding can last for decades.

Moreover, manufacturers now offer pre-painted boards that are applied at the factory.

These boards are considerably more durable than hand-painted ones.

Furthermore, the pre-painted boards will cut off chunks of time on labor.

This is because they are painted meticulously on all sides.

Though, this means it’s more expensive.t.

The major drawback of this siding option is the cost.

It is significantly more expensive than the other options on the list.

It’s also a bit hard to cut because of the cement component in it.

Consequently, it’s a heavy siding material and may not be the best alternative for a tiny house on a wheel.

Hardie Board Siding features

  • The lifespan of 20 years
  • The cost per square foot is $4
  • Weight per square foot is 2.3 lbs
  • 4 stars critter rating

Pros

  • Extremely durable
  • It lasts longer than most
  • Resistant to bugs and rot
  • Pre-painted boards are available
  • Suitable for use on almost all tiny house design styles

Cons

  • Challenging to work with and cut
  • Its a bit more pricy
  • You will need a respirator while cutting
  • It much heavier than the other options

Standing Seam Metal Siding

Standing seam metal siding is a great choice if you intend to build an excellent, modern-looking tiny house.

For one thing, it comes with all the benefits of corrugated metal.

Secondly, it has that clean look that even the corrugated metal can’t pull off.

Its high-quality material and can last for decades.

Durability isn’t an issue with this kind of siding material.

Another added benefit of using standing seam metal as siding is the fact that it’s a hidden fastener attachment.

Exposed fastener holes are often an opportunity for water to leak in.

Well, thankfully, that’s out of the question with this siding.

Additionally, it offers remarkable bug and rot resistance.

Unfortunately, one of the most expensive to install (Sorry DIYers!) and it’s not friendly to those building a tiny house on a budget.

This siding often requires a professional to install unless you can do it yourself or know someone who can help you.

Very few people can manage to do a proper installation on their own.

Also, since its metal, moisture tends to condense on the cooler side and can quickly result in moisture problems.

In order to manage it, we would recommend you get a quality rain screen with plenty of room to air.

This should keep your metal wall dry.

Standing seam metal siding features

  • The lifespan of 50 years
  • The cost per square foot is $5
  • Weight per square foot is 1.3 lbs
  • 5 stars critter rating

Pros

  • Immaculate lines
  • Super durable. It can last for up to 50 years
  • Resistant to fire rot and bugs
  • Capable of covering large areas quickly

Cons

  • Quite expensive
  • It is hard to work with
  • You might require a professional to install

T1-11 Siding

If you have no idea what T1-11 is, it’s a product essentially made of wood pulp and a bonding agent.

It’s treated and designed into a 4 by an 8-foot sheet.

There was a time when T1-11 was popular, but those days are gone.

People have their eyes on the most durable and high-quality siding materials.

The main reasons why some people go for this product are its affordability and also ease of installation.

It comes in sheets, and hence, anyone can clad a tiny house in just a few days.

While T1-11 siding can be an excellent way to save money while building your tiny house, it’s really a poor choice.

For starters, it requires constant maintenance, which means resealing, recaulking, and repainting the panels after a year or two.

Secondly, T1-11 as an exterior siding material means you have to deal with rots, molds, and bugs.

It quickly falls apart with constant moisture and may not last long in areas that experience long rainy seasons.

It’s probably not worth it when you think of all the drawbacks of using this kind of siding material.

You will save more money in the long run with a durable and high-quality exterior siding option.

But if it’s your only alternative, go for it.

T1-11 Siding features

  • A lifespan of 20 years
  • The cost per square foot is $1
  • Weight per square foot is 1.8 lbs
  • 1-star critter rating

Pros

  • Inexpensive
  • Widely available
  • Easy to install
  • Covers a lot of areas quickly

Cons

  • It’s prone to moisture damage and can fall apart in extreme conditions
  • It’s not very durable
  • It has a fake wood look

The popular styles of siding

When it comes to the popular styles of siding your tiny home, you have endless options on display.

Here are some more common design styles.

The siding styles you pick will depend on a couple of factors, like weight limit.

Materials like cement and stucco are often not used for tiny towable houses because of weight issues.

But they are still a decent option for a tiny house built on the land.

Clapboard Siding

It’s also referred to as lap or bevel.

Clapboard siding is quite a typical style, and it consists of a few variations.

The simplest one to design is the regular clapboard.

On the other hand, the beaded and insulated styles tend to offer more protection and versatility.

For this siding, you are required to use planks of wood placed horizontally, where the piece above overlaps the ones that are below.

It’s not complicated and doesn’t need much work.

Board and batten

This is a traditional method that mainly involves vertical arrangements.

You’ve probably seen it being used in cabins in the woods or mountains.

The best thing about this siding style is that it’s inexpensive.

This is because it uses very few screws and requires little work to complete.

While its design style has been around for so long, it’s often overlooked for the other alternative styles.

All in all, board and batten remain a tried and true siding style that will never let you down.

There is a notable advantage of using this style for your tiny house.

It has an incredible ability to expand with increased humidity and contract in the cold and dry winters.

As such, it’s a great choice for tiny houses in regions that experience varying weather patterns in the seasons.

Shingles

Shingles are an excellent siding style for a tiny home.

They give a smooth and consistent appearance.

There are two ways to arrange the shingles.

Depending on your preference, you can arrange them in a straight edge or staggered.

Both ways will give your house a beautiful exterior.

Lap siding

Lap siding is more or less similar to clapboard siding.

Though, it’s a unique style on its own.

In this design style, the top, narrow end of the siding tucks under the wider bottom of the next panel but with a slight shadow.

It has less slope at the edge compared to the clapboard siding.

It is common in many tiny homes built today.

Scalloped siding

The scalloped siding is also called fish scale siding.

This is because it’s shaped like the overlapping scales of a fish.

This type of siding style is often used by homeowners who want to freshen their houses’ look.

It’s actually a tremendous decorative style.

The curved bottoms on the siding add a unique visual detail you won’t find on many homes.

Dutch lap siding

This is another common type of siding that’s also known as horizontal lap siding.

The pieces used are slightly concave to create a much deeper reveal and shadow.

The Dutch lap siding style is a popular choice because it’s inexpensive to produce.

It’s also easier to install compared to the other siding style options.

It’s definitely a siding style that you should consider for your tiny home.

Low Maintenance Exterior recommendations for tiny houses

The exterior of your tiny house is just as important as the interior.

As such, tiny homes need to be simple, durable, and most notably low maintenance.

Remember, you are the one who wants a stress-free and straightforward lifestyle.

For that reason, it is your responsibility to ensure you adhere to that.

Otherwise, the entire concept of tiny living will lose its true meaning.

With that said, many people opt for tiny houses because they’re basically smaller dwellings.

It is easier to maintain a tiny home than a larger home.

To keep up the tiny house lifestyle, you need to choose a siding that will require little maintenance and resist chipping, flaking or peeling.

This is the kind of siding that lasts for several years before needing to be repainted.

Before you can think of the low-maintenance exterior options for your tiny house, there are a few things to consider.

These will, in a way, help you pick the most suitable choice.

The first thing is your environment.

What is the location of your tiny house?

Is it located under a tree that drops lots of leaves, needles, or sap?

What about the climate?

Is it particularly rainy or scorching hot?

These are some of the factors to think about.

Also, take note of the tiny home design.

It should at least protect the siding with overhangs.

A one-foot overhang is good enough for most tiny homes.

Then finally, check the ground around the base of your house.

Ensure it has plenty of gravel and drains properly.

Otherwise, there will be water damage.

We would suggest having gravel about two feet from the house edge.

This will work to prevent excessive backsplash onto your siding.

If possible, make sure the trailer of your tiny house is mounted at least a foot off the ground.

What are the low-maintenance exterior options?

The truth is many people look for exterior options that will offer low maintenance.

No one wants to build a house and keep worrying about it.

We all want our homes to look their best.

This means choosing a siding that will continue to look great year after year.

That said, you should understand that the exterior siding is the first line of defense against the elements.

It’s also what makes the home beautiful and appealing to the eye.

Your house siding will be subjected to everything and anything Mother Nature throws at it.

If it ends up rotting, peeling or chipping, you will have to take the necessary steps to maintain it and ensure your house retains its good looks.

This is basically what tiny homeowners want to avoid.

Essentially, low-maintenance siding is much cheaper than repainting every two to five years.

There are several options for siding that are often advertised as low maintenance.

Though, not every low-maintenance siding option you find on the market will be right for you.

For instance, it might not match the style of your tiny house.

Make sure it’s not just easy to maintain but also durable, attractive and suitable for what you need.

On that note, we will briefly cover the low maintenance siding options:

Fiber Cement

Fiber cement is first on the list for a pretty good reason.

It’s truly one of the best low-maintenance siding options you will ever find.

An added benefit is it allows flexibility in appearance.

It is not only durable but also offers a wide variety of styles and colors for homeowners.

Fiber cement siding tiny house is created using a blend of cellulose fiber with Portland cement, silica and sand.

The excellent formula produces a heavy, high-quality material resistant to insect activity, moisture, rot and impacts.

In addition, it’s able to withstand most problems caused by harsh climates like extreme heat or cold.

Most importantly, fiber cement is a flame retardant.

As mentioned, it comes in a variety of textures and styles.

They are either primed and ready for painting or already finished in different colors for easy installation.

The color is resistant to chipping and fading and lasts longer than wood.

This means much lower maintenance for you.

You will get many different options for sizes and styles, including lap siding, shiplap, board and batten, and decorative shingles.

This is enough reason to consider fiber cement as the suitable low-maintenance exterior siding option.

It will improve the curb appeal of your tiny home while keeping up a low-maintenance exterior.

Vinyl

Vinyl is a popular low-maintenance siding because it’s cheap and easy to install.

It was first introduced as an alternative to wood and has been doing well ever since.

Vinyl doesn’t require regular painting as it’s fade-resistant.

The color typically goes through the planks, which are made of a plastic called polyvinyl chloride.

As such, it can’t chip, peel or fade easily.

Vinyl is also resistant to rot and moisture, both of which are issues associated with wood.

The only thing you’re going to do for maintenance is an occasional power wash.

While Vinyl itself offers powerful resistance to moisture, it can harbor serious moisture issues if not installed properly.

This will lead to more maintenance than necessary as well as repairs.

Furthermore, it’s prone to damage in extreme weather conditions.

It can melt when the weather is too hot or crack in extreme cold.

Stucco

Stucco isn’t such a common siding material for tiny homes.

However, it’s a good option if you will not be moving your tiny house.

It’s available in many colors and textures and can easily complement most architectural styles.

Stucco is a material that tends to breathe.

As a result, moisture escapes and evaporates fast enough.

It’s a great choice in areas with a dry climate or normal amounts of rainfall.

But it’s not particularly suitable for rainy locations because the framing behind it is prone to rot.

Stucco doesn’t require much care.

All you need to do is occasionally clean off the dirt and debris.

Though, the most important thing to keep at the back of your mind is the climate.

Stucco can last for decades in the right weather.

Out of the three, fiber cement reigns supreme as the best and highly recommended low-maintenance exterior siding option.

Lightweight exterior siding panel recommendations for trailers

Some area codes impose strict weight limits for tiny homes on trailers.

For that reason, the exterior siding panels of your trailer should be lightweight.

So, what are some of the choices available for lightweight exterior siding panels?

Lucky for you, there are plenty of options to choose from for your tiny home on wheels.

Vinyl is a good choice if you want something affordable and durable.

It’s lightweight and, thus, a suitable exterior siding for trailers.

Additionally, it comes in dozens of colors, textures, and styles.

While Vinyl has a lot going for it, and it’s a popular choice, fiber cement is even better.

It is more robust, more durable, and versatile.

It will go a long way to complement the architectural style of your tiny home on a trailer.

Fiber cement is a great, long-lasting product that is an ultimate step up from Vinyl.

With that said, it is a bit heavier than most.

So, take note of that and make a choice according to important factors like weight limit for trailers.

Another remarkable lightweight siding for a tiny house on a trailer is the smart panel siding.

It’s one of the people’s favorite siding.

Its string and lasts long.

Smart panel siding is designed for tiny homes that are constantly on the move.

It uses wood fibers, similar to those in the fiber cement siding but mixed with industrial resin, waxes, and zinc borax.

The result is a beautiful-looking and clean exterior siding panel.

This siding can weather any storm throw at it and resistant t impact.

It can also withstand strong winds.

Warping shouldn’t be something witnessed on this type of siding.

Last but not least is the aluminum siding.

It may not be a popular choice but it’s still a tried and true exterior siding for trailers.

It has a low price tag and is extremely lightweight.

This makes aluminum a good option for people with a travel trailer.

Keep in mind, the fact that it’s lightweight means better gas mileage and you can save a great deal of money at the pump.

It also doesn’t require costly repairs like its counterparts.

How to manage mold on tiny house siding

Mold can appear on your siding even when the manufacturer says otherwise.

A lot of it has something to do with the climate.

The thing about mold is that it can be found almost anywhere.

As long as moisture is present, mold can potentially grow on your tiny house siding.

Ultimately, this is a plague that affects all types of homes, and it has some tiny homeowners up in arms.

It’s even more dangerous when mold is found growing underneath the siding.

If it’s visibly growing on the outside, you can notice it and take the right course of action to get rid of it.

But first, you need to locate the mold and determine the underlying causes.

This will help with minimizing damage.

The mold that goes unnoticed spreads quickly, resulting in a wide range of costly issues.

Preventing mold on tiny house siding

There are things you can do to prevent mold growth on the exterior siding of your tiny home.

First of all, start with a regular inspection of rain gutters and downspouts.

These tend to collect all kinds of things over time, like twigs, leaves, and debris.

If the drain isn’t channelling water properly off the roof and away from the house, it will eventually overflow.

Moisture is most likely going to seep into the siding as water runs down the side of the house.

It may be a good idea to use siding materials that are less susceptible to mold.

If possible, you can use brick for your tiny house.

However, it’s not an option for tiny homes on a trailer.

Take the time to check the available siding options and choose the most suitable material to resist mold.

If mold has managed to develop under the siding, take care of the problem in the best way possible.

Sometimes the mold issue is limited.

In that case, siding repair is more than enough to get rid of the issue and prevent further damage.

However, when you find a mold that has damaged the siding completely, you may want to invest in siding replacement.

Tiny house exterior colors

Like any house, a tiny house should be stylish and have an appealing exterior color scheme.

When you have such little space to live in, every decision you make is crucial, including the tiny house exterior colors.

Remember, you don’t have much space to work with.

As such, too much color can be overwhelming even for the exterior.

You will need to think about the right color for the outside of your tiny home.

Luckily, we have a couple of ideas up our sleeve to get you started on the right note.

White

Once you’ve found the perfect siding option for your small home, the next thing in line would be deciding on the exterior color scheme.

Some colors are a great match for a tiny home, while others are unremarkable.

But white is always perfect regardless of whether it’s a huge house or a tiny house.

White basically gives off a farmhouse vibe for any tiny house.

It’s classic and country, providing an opportunity for landscaping and outdoor décor.

Also, it makes a preferable choice for a stationary tiny house.

Though, you can use it on any kind of tiny home.

Grey

Grey is surely a lovely choice for a contemporary tiny house.

It is a neutral that really compliments the modern feel.

If you plan on owning a tiny home that’s contemporary in structure, grey would be the perfect candidate for an exterior color scheme.

Regardless of whether it is gray-stained wood or true grey, it will highlight all the outdoor accents without the boldness of black.

Black

Black is bold and on the other end of the scale.

You won’t see many tiny houses painted in black, but it’s still an excellent color for tiny house exteriors.

It would be a wonderful color for the exterior siding of a tiny house on a trailer.

Black has a sleek ad modern feel that will make guests want to know what’s inside your house.

In addition, it has a way of making the indoor lighting appear brighter when you arrive home from a long day out.

You will find your tiny house to be the coziest place on earth.

Mint

Are you ready for some adventure in the world of color?

Well, aside from the neutrals, other incredible colors will make your tiny house the most beautiful and appealing in the neighborhood.

We officially introduce to you mint, a fun color that has seen exploding popularity lately.

Can you picture your tiny house with a mint exterior siding?

It’s definitely an adorable option.

A mint green exterior can easily be the backdrop of your Instagram photos, and you can travel all over the county taking pictures with your minty tiny house.

Who said you couldn’t be besties with your tiny home?!

Pale sage green

Pale sage green is a favorite, hands down.

It is undoubtedly the perfect tiny house exterior color for a classic-looking home.

It gives that hint of shade you want while at the same time not being too bright.

That’s what makes pale sage green attractive and adorable.

It’s also a great color to accentuate wood and outdoor plants.

Navy blue

When people speak of contemporary, navy blue comes to mind.

This color has already made its mark on the exterior color game, and it is winning.

A tiny house with a navy blue exterior stands out without it being over the top.

This is because blue is considered softer and friendlier than black.

Your navy blue tiny house will surely be the most welcoming place in the neighborhood, whether stationary or packed.

Turquoise

Nowadays, you won’t find a single person who doesn’t like turquoise and wants it on their tiny house.

It’s such a lovely and beautiful color.

It is bright, happy, and gives a beachy shade.

Even if your tiny house isn’t by the ocean, turquoise is the exterior color that will provide you with those happy seaside vibes.

You don’t have to be at the beach with such a color painted on the outside of your tiny home.

Coral pink

If you think pink in general is girly, try coral pink.

It’s still pink but without the girliness, if you know what I mean.

Coral Pink feels unique and trendy.

Also, it’s one of the shades that match pretty well with black or white.

It will easily give the vibe you want from your tiny home.

Tips for choosing tiny house exterior colors

Choosing the right color for the exterior of your tiny house can be a daunting task.

Most of the time, people are torn between the many different colors and don’t know what to do.

To soothe your worries a little bit, we have compiled notable tips to help you make the right decision.

We understand it’s a big task and downright intimidating.

Check out these carefully selected tips to help narrow down exterior tiny house colors.

Identify the style of your tiny home

Your tiny home’s style will lend some guidance when it comes to choosing the right colors.

Depending on the style of your home, you will be able to identify the perfect color to compliment it.

Also, consider the neighborhood.

It wouldn’t make any sense for your tiny home to stand out in the community like a sore thumb.

Is your tiny house located in a new suburb with dominant themes?

This should then be your starting point to choosing the best exterior color scheme.

Become a color copycat

There is absolutely nothing wrong with being a house color copycat.

This will actually be of great help in narrowing down your tiny house colors.

Spare some time to drive around the block and snap a couple of photos of the exterior color palettes.

Only take pictures of the ones you like or homes that look like what you already have planned.

Later, go through the pictures and see if you can settle for something great.

Get guidance from your tiny home

You might be running around trying to figure out the best color for your tiny house when the inspiration is right there with you.

Essentially, your tiny home has some hues that should be part of the exterior color scheme.

Is the exterior siding made of wood, brick or stone?

Those should be a base to build on the color scheme.

There is no way you can ignore what’s already on the house.

The color you pick should relate to what is already there.

Otherwise, a lot of things in your tiny house won’t make any sense.

Don’t pay much attention to the trends

This is a common mistake that you will pay for sooner or later.

There are trends for shoes, clothes and even home colors.

But we easily forget that the trends will come and go.

After some time, there will be a new trend, and it will change everything.

What is hot and trendy today may not be so cool tomorrow.

On the other hand, you will be stuck with your house for a long time.

The benefits and Setbacks of tiny house sidings

Siding is a great investment for any house, whether new or old.

The truth is installing siding on a tiny home has its advantages.

There is a lot to benefit from this decision, and that’s why people get the best siding materials they can find.

On the other hand, siding can also bring along some setbacks.

All in all, the benefits vastly outweigh any of the demerits.

What are the benefits of tiny house siding?

Getting high-quality siding for your tiny home can pay off.

Here are the notable advantages;

Enhances curb appeal

When people come to your home, the first thing they will see is the exterior.

It is basically what they will notice before anything else.

That’s why homeowners strive to ensure their houses look the best, both on the inside and outside.

When you install siding on your tiny home, it improves the home’s curb appeal.

Good siding will give your home a sleek and totally different look.

The best part is that siding options usually include color.

This will make the house stand out with an exterior look that breaks the mold.

Whether it’s mint, crisp white, a daring black or bold red, siding presents the perfect opportunity to bring color that nods your design.

The result is a better and improved curb appeal.

Protection against the elements

Tiny house siding offers protection against harsh elements like heavy rain, strong winds, hail, snow, thunderstorm, heat, cold and just about anything Mother Nature throws at it.

In some climates, it’s a lot that the siding has to take.

It is the ultimate protection of your tiny house and will ensure the home stays intact during such occurrences.

This is the reason why you must find the right siding that can handle the climate of any region.

This is especially important if you intend to travel from one location to the next.

Protection from noise, wind and animals

Siding can help to protect your family from any unnecessary noise.

Noisy neighbors can be super annoying and frustrating, especially when there is a home nearby.

High-quality siding works to keep out much of the noise.

It can reduce noise levels significantly, especially in closely spaced parks.

But noise isn’t the only thing that might invade your tiny home.

Pests like mice, opossums, snakes and other creatures can find their way to your home.

Though with good siding, you are bound to enjoy an extra layer of protection from such creatures.

Furthermore, most of the siding materials are designed to offer excellent resistance against moisture, mold ad bacteria.

It helps to lower heating and cooling costs

One of the most significant benefits of siding is better energy efficiency.

Siding can reduce energy costs considerably.

That said, you ought to choose a siding material that will offer better and higher insulating qualities.

Siding prevents the heating and cooling from air conditioning units from working too much.

This is because they aid in keeping the temperatures inside your tiny house constant for longer.

Increased durability

When you use solid and durable siding, it also increases the durability of your tiny home.

Some siding materials are designed to last for a long, going up to decades.

Therefore, you will have a durable home that will remain in good shape and look great for many years.

What are the setbacks of tiny house siding?

Tiny house siding has more advantages than setbacks.

Nowadays, people are well informed and are well capable of getting the best siding that will offer the most benefits.

When it comes to setbacks, it’s usually about the particular siding material.

If you opt for siding that’s not right for your house and needs, there is a good chance you won’t reap as many benefits from it.

In fact, it might cause more problems that will cost you time and money.

So, ensure you’re making a prudent decision when choosing siding.

Conclusion

Many people are embracing tiny house living as a lifestyle.

That said, it’s your responsibility to make sure your tiny home looks its best by choosing the perfect siding for the job.

We have already covered the different options for siding, each with its benefits and drawbacks.

We are confident you have all the right information to help you make a prudent decision on several factors.

Remember, this is your chance to get creative with the siding design ideas for a unique exterior look.

This might seem like a huge and daunting responsibility (actually, it is), but it’s one of the ways to express yourself.

With well-chosen siding, your tiny house exterior can reflect your personality or have a character of its own.

Think of the ideal color options and go for one that stands out.

Our job here is done, and it’s now up to you to conduct some due diligence.

Your tiny home is almost done and ready!

FAQs

What kind of wood is used for tiny houses?

If it’s a tiny house on a trailer, the material used to build it should be lightweight.

You can’t possibly travel around with a heavy house.

Many locations have strict laws stipulating the required weight limit for trailers.

For a tiny home’s exterior, use lightweight structural timber like pine, fir and spruce.

Birch plywood panels work well on the interior.

Do you pay taxes on a tiny house?

People who own tiny houses on wheels don’t pay any property taxes on the house.

However, you can’t just park your tiny house on wheels anywhere you want.

There are zoning laws that you must adhere to.

Depending on the area, you will have to pay for a place to park your tiny house on wheels and sometimes real estate taxes apply.

Though, there are areas you can park a tiny house without paying any fees or taxes.

What is the recommended type of siding for tiny houses?

First and foremost, this will depend on some factors like the climate, style of the house and budget.

But some of the best siding options include fiber cement, pinewood, cedarwood, corrugated metal and Vinyl.

Can I live in a tiny house on my own property?

Yes, but you must comply with local rules and regulations.

It will also depend on the state you’re living in because some don’t recognize tiny houses.

Another thing that will determine is whether it’s the primary house on your property.