Metal Siding

[barticus73]

I am planning to build a pole barn style equipment shed in the near future, (27 x 60 with one 60 foot side open and divided into 5 12 foot bays). Most everywhere I am getting material quotes list 29 gauge metal as the standard for siding and roof. But, they also offer 26 gauge as an upgrade. I haven't checked the price difference. Do you guys know if much of a difference in price exists? If the difference is high, is it really worth it to go to 26 gauge or will the 29 gauge standard be just fine?

 

[Glenn9643]

I bought 26 guage galvalume for the first metal roof I installed (in 1989). Since then I've used 29, and the 26 is noticeably stiffer. I noted the difference when trying to bend some of the metal to conform around the tops of valleys where the adjoining ridgecap needed to cover.
You might check out the recommendations in your area for spacing of support lathing. With the 29 guage I've been using 24" spacing on the lathe. You might can extend that with the 26 and save a little on lathing.
Another thing to consider depending on where you live is insurance costs. Insurance regulators in several states in the southern area have started giving reductions on insurance for metal roofs, but some require a minimum of 26 guage to qualify.