When you’re planning a pole barn in Michigan or the Midwest, weather and climate are the primary concerns.
Heavy snow, ice, strong winds, and sudden temperature swings mean your roofing and siding choices need to stand up to decades of punishment without constant repairs. Expansion and contractor is the primary issue, as heating and cooling cause most materials to move ever so slightly: you want the good stuff.
We’ve built barns across Michigan, and the lessons we’ve learned show up in the recommendations we give our customers every day. For the best pole barn kits in the Midwest, give us a call to learn more.
The Basics on Barn Roofs
Let’s start with a basic: virtually every new pole barn in our area will end up with a metal roof and metal siding. Asphalt shingles simply don’t make sense for a barn roof. They’re time-consuming to install and they wear out in half the time. We’ve seen barns where asphalt had to be replaced twice in the same time span a metal roof lasted with minimal maintenance.
When it comes to siding, metal is again the clear winner. Vinyl siding might look attractive on a house, but for a barn it falls short. Metal siding installs quickly and, more importantly, it can handle Michigan winters for decades without fading or warping.
Pole Barn Roof Options
Standing Seam Metal Roofing – The Premium Choice
Standing seam is the gold standard for barns and barndominiums that need to look sharp and stay watertight for the long haul. With hidden fasteners, there are no exposed screws to back out, rust, or leak. Most panels come in 26 gauge steel, though some 29 gauge options are available, and they’re offered in sleek 12″ or 16″ widths.
We’ve seen standing seam roofs used on high-dollar homes, and more and more barn owners want that same clean look. One client of ours actually chose us because he didn’t like the personality of another roofer—proof that trust and relationships matter just as much as materials.
- Pros: Modern, polished appearance; no exposed screws; decades of protection.
- Cons: Slightly higher upfront cost, though not enough to sink a project.
- Best for: Premium barns, barndominiums, or anyone who wants to build once and not think about a roof replacement again.
M-Panel Steel – The Mid-Range Sweet Spot
If your budget doesn’t stretch to standing seam but you still want solid protection, M-panel steel is the practical compromise. It has exposed fasteners, meaning screw heads, but with a distinct rib profile (12″ spacing between ribs). You can order it in 26 or 29 gauge, depending on how rugged you want it.
- Pros: Strong, affordable, customizable in gauge.
- Cons: Visible screws require periodic inspection.
- Best for: Homeowners who want value without sacrificing quality.
G-Rib Steel – The Budget-Friendly Classic
The G-rib profile is a workhorse. It’s the most common panel you’ll see on barns across Michigan and the Midwest. It’s also the most affordable and a top choice for re-roofing projects. We’ve worked with plenty of farmers who go this route because it gets the job done without straining the budget.
- Pros: Cost-effective, widely available, easy to install.
- Cons: Exposed screws can loosen over time; warranties are limited unless upgraded.
- Best for: Storage barns, livestock shelters, and any build where function matters most.
A Note on Screws and Warranties
Here’s where many barn owners get tripped up: the screws.
The panel warranty might look good on paper, but if you’re using cheap screws without coverage, you’re setting yourself up for leaks. That’s why we always recommend 40-year warranty screws. They cost a bit more, but they’re color-matched and designed with rubber washers that seal well.
We’ve seen what happens when contractors cut corners here: it looks fine at first, but a decade later the homeowner is chasing leaks.
R-Rib Steel – Built for Commercial Strength
R-rib is the heavy-duty option. Designed for steel-frame structures, it can span purlins or rafters up to five feet apart without sagging. It’s available in 24, 26, or 29 gauge, with white 24 gauge being a common commercial pick.
- Pros: Superior strength, spans long distances, commercial-grade durability.
- Cons: More expensive and unnecessary for small barns.
- Best for: Warehouses, commercial barns, and large agricultural projects.
Corrugated Steel – The Decorative Throwback
Remember the wavy tin roofs from decades past? That’s corrugated steel or tin.
While it has charm, we rarely install it on new barns. These days, it’s more likely to show up as a man cave ceiling or an accent wall than on a pole barn roof.
- Best for: Decorative applications, rustic accents, and interior projects.
Pole Barn Siding Options
Board & Batten Metal – Stylish and Strong
Board and batten vertical metal siding is booming in popularity. It’s showing up on houses, garages, and barn gables because it delivers both durability and style. While it’s not typically used on farm or commercial sheds, it’s a perfect fit when you want your pole barn garage to complement your home.
We’ve built small garages with this siding, and it’s always a hit with homeowners who want their barn to look like an extension of the house.
- Best for: Residential garages, gables, accent walls, or barndominiums.
Other Siding Options
- Vinyl siding: Budget-friendly, but not as durable in Michigan’s climate.
- Horizontal steel siding: Works well for barns designed to mimic traditional residential exteriors.
Our Final Recommendation for Michigan Barn Owners
Michigan’s climate demands roofing and siding that can take a beating year after year. Standing seam remains the top-tier choice, while M-panel and G-rib provide dependable alternatives depending on your budget. For siding, board and batten adds curb appeal, while vinyl and horizontal steel offer practical solutions.
Most importantly, always insist on warranty paperwork. We’ve seen contractors sell 10-year steel as if it were 40-year, and by the time the paint fades or the rust shows, it’s too late to go back. Protect your investment by knowing exactly what you’re getting.
Ready to build a pole barn that can handle Michigan’s toughest seasons? Contact Custom Pole Barn Packages today and we’ll guide you through roofing and siding choices that match your vision, budget, and property needs. Then, we’ll deliver your pole barn package of materials right to your door.
