Choosing Roofing and Siding for Animal Shelters

When it comes to building the right shelter for your animals, roofing and siding are more than just aesthetic choices — they’re what stand between your animals and the elements. Whether you’re housing goats, horses, dogs, or chickens, the materials you choose directly impact durability, safety, and maintenance.

At Wolf Valley Buildings, we know that a well-built structure starts with smart material decisions. Let’s explore the best siding and roofing options for animal shelters — and how to choose the right ones for your climate, animals, and long-term needs.

Why Roofing and Siding Matter

The keyphrase “roofing and siding for animal shelters” matters not only for SEO — but because it reflects a real concern for animal owners: how do I protect my animals year-round?

A poorly insulated roof can lead to overheating in summer or freezing in winter. Subpar siding may crack, warp, or allow moisture inside, creating breeding grounds for bacteria or mold. Over time, that leads to discomfort, illness, or costly repairs.

That’s why our team offers upgrades and customizations to ensure your shelter stands up to wind, sun, storms, and animal wear-and-tear.

Best Roofing Materials for Animal Shelters

At Wolf Valley Buildings, our standard is 29-gauge Galvalume metal roofing, and for good reason. It reflects sunlight, resists rust, and offers long-lasting protection without the need for constant upkeep.

But depending on your region and shelter type, here are some roofing options to consider:

• Metal Roofing (Galvalume or painted): Durable, low-maintenance, and energy-efficient. Ideal for hot, rainy, or windy climates.

• Shingle Roofing: Not often recommended for shelters, but may be used for aesthetic match on custom kennel setups.

• Insulated Roof Panels: A good option for enclosed shelters in extreme climates, helping regulate internal temperature.

If you’re housing animals that are heat-sensitive — like goats or certain dog breeds — a radiant barrier underlayment can help reduce interior heat by reflecting solar radiation.

Best Siding for Animal Shelters

For siding, durability and cleanability are top priorities. Our shelters typically feature T1-11 wood siding or painted LP SmartSide — both of which provide strength and an attractive finish.

Here’s a breakdown of siding options:

• LP SmartSide: Engineered wood that resists fungal decay and termites. It’s also available in multiple colors and can withstand impact from hooves or claws.

• Metal Siding: Great for loafing sheds or large livestock shelters. It’s rust-resistant, pest-proof, and easy to wash down.

• Board-and-Batten: A traditional look often used on mini barns or decorative shelters. Can be upgraded with LP products for better durability.

• Painted Wood (T1-11): Cost-effective, classic, and allows for custom paint colors. Great for chicken coops or goat sheds in mild climates.

Your choice should depend on animal type, location, and exposure. For example, goats may rub against walls, so impact resistance matters. Chickens create dust and ammonia, so cleanable surfaces are key.

Matching Shelter Materials to Climate

In hot and humid areas, light-colored roofing helps reduce solar heat gain, and vented soffits or open gables allow better airflow.

In cold or snowy climates, your shelter may need a pitched roof for snow runoff and tighter siding seals to keep wind out.

If you’re not sure what works best in your area, we’ll walk you through the best combinations for roofing and siding for animal shelters during your consultation.

Maintenance Considerations

Choosing low-maintenance materials doesn’t just save money — it protects your animals. Metal siding and roofing are resistant to chewing, pecking, and mold. Painted LP SmartSide rarely needs repainting and holds up to the elements for years.

Additionally, the right materials will minimize future repairs and help your structure hold its value if you ever need to sell or repurpose it.

Customization Options at Wolf Valley Buildings

We don’t believe in one-size-fits-all shelters. Our customers get to choose siding and roofing combos that fit their land, animals, and budget. Want a green metal roof with board-and-batten siding? No problem. Need extra ventilation or radiant barriers? We’ve got you covered.

Every Wolf Valley shelter is built with care — and tailored to your exact needs.

Ready to Build Smart?

Your animals deserve a shelter that’s just as strong and reliable as they are. With the right roofing and siding for animal shelters, you’ll gain peace of mind knowing they’re safe, dry, and comfortable year-round.

📞 Contact Wolf Valley Buildings today for a free consultation — and let’s build something that lasts.

Internal Links:

Predator-Proof Animal Shelter | 2025 Safety Upgrades

Best Animal Shelter Flooring for Harsh Climates | 2025 Guide

Animal Shelter Sheds for Pets & Exotics | Wolf Valley Buildings