Small Cabin Siding Options
Plywood or OSB Sheets
You can use regular plywood or OSB sheets for the small cabin siding. 3x8" or 1/2" thickness is a typical choice. This is reasonably inexpensive and option. When you use plywood or OSB panels outdoors, you need to paint them. Because they are not primed, oil paint is the best option - it is more durable than acrylic/latex, and soaks well into the panel.SamrtSide Sheets
Somewhat better but more expensive option is SmartSide panels. They have several advantages:
- Durability
- Extra shear strength (allows you to nail it directly to the studs)
- Treated for moisture, rot and fungal decay resistance
- Termite damage protection
- Shiplap edges
- Surface is pre-primed with resin-saturated primer, good paint adhesion
- No need for additional wall covering with plastic or aluminum siding
- Embossed cedar pattern with tapered grooves for traditional planking look
SmartSite panels are pre-primed - use an exterior 100% acrylic latex paint or a latex blend for painting.
The SmartSide panels are more expensive than plywood or OSB sheets - I've seen prices ranging from $29 to $80 per panel (3/8" 4x8 ft).
I used SmartSide panels for the ciding of the small cabin, and plywood for siding of other structures.