Can you put the wood shingle looking siding over the metal?

Jane Ryner
by Jane Ryner

Can u put the wood shingles that r siding over the metal siding already on the house and how?

  2 answers
  • Seth Seth on Aug 11, 2018

    Hi Jane,

    When you say "wood shingle looking" are you referring to actual cedar shingles or some other material like the newer polymer/vinyl shingles? Installing cedar over metal is not advisable because the metal siding does not provide a secure nailing structure to hold the wood siding. Polymer/vinyl shingle siding requires a smooth, rigid surface. You would either need to strip what is on the house or add even another layer to apply the new siding. Yes it's more work, but you should probably strip the old siding, which may be more than one layer, see what condition your sheathing is in and go from there.


  • Steve Steve on Aug 11, 2018

    if the metal is steel, remember it will rust, especially after you puncture it with nails. You may end up with rust stained wooden shingles. The other thing to consider is that both materials act differently in cold weather. I would strip off the old metal.