Garden Shed Buying Guide: Where Practicality Meets Purpose

Garden Shed Buying Guide: Where Practicality Meets Purpose

While there are many ways you can liven up your outdoor space, having a garden shed in your yard allows you to keep things neat and organised all while having a space to call your own. Sheds can be used to store gardening equipment, car tools, or outdoor tables and chairs. You can put all the items that aren’t used frequently but are taking up too much space in your home.

If you want to ensure a quality shed, there are a few things you should think about and questions you should ask. You won’t regret your decision if you know how to choose your shed to meet your demands.

Focus On the Type of Material

Choosing the right material for your needs is arguably the most critical choice you’ll make. The materials used in prefabricated outdoor garden sheds will impact the cost range, strength, maintenance, lifespan, quality, and a variety of other characteristics. You’ll be able to pinpoint your search and make better purchasing options if you know what material suits your current arrangement the most.

outdoor garden sheds
Source: malltina.com

Metal Sheds

These are the most typical types of sheds seen in most neighbourhoods. This is because they are the most affordable type, come in a variety of colours and styles, are lightweight, easy to ship or haul, and are simple to assemble.

Metal shelters are typically constructed of galvanised or vinyl-coated steel. Unlike the old corroded metal sheds, you’ll see in older house backyards, this added stage in today’s production helps them withstand scratches and corrosion. Sheet metal shelters require little to no upkeep and can retain their appearance and operation for many years.

Plastic Sheds

If you have a bigger budget and want a more expensive shed, plastic sheds may be the best option for you. The majority of these models are made of a double-walled plastic wafer pressed together with steel reinforcing on the interior.

They employ a heavy-duty steel frame and steel roof trusses sturdy enough to support tiny adults! In most situations, the trusses may be used as additional overhead storage. Because they are bulkier than metal and vinyl shelters, you can prepare to move several hefty boxes.

plastic garden shed
Source: landera.com.au

Inside, most plastic outdoor garden sheds include a sturdy plastic floor, windows, skylights, ventilation, and plenty of shelves to help you stay organized. Rust, insects, mould, and rot are not attracted to polycarbonate plastics. Rust, insects, mould, and rot are not attracted to polycarbonate plastics.

You’ll undoubtedly like this shed because they are long-lasting and may survive for several years and generations. They are extremely low maintenance, requiring only a simple hosing off once a year to maintain them clean.

Wooden Sheds

Unless you buy timber locally, measure, and cut it all yourself, wood shelters are typically about the same price as plastic sheds of the same size, or somewhat more based on the brand and quality. You may get cheaper wood sheds made of 2×3 studs, but if you want the same sturdy durability as your house, you should buy a 2×4 stud shed.

There are several firms that prefabricate wood shed kits that are entirely pre-cut, packed, and delivered to your property ready for DIY assembly. Most inexperienced builders can assemble them, although there is a little boost in skill level required because the installers will be pounding a lot.

Figure Out the Right Size

Garden sheds range in size from modest storage boxes and small sheds to massive barns and garages. The most popular shed size is 10×12. Of course, this size will not work for everyone, and you will need to choose the best size for your needs.

  • Small Sheds: These range in size from the smallest sheds at 4×4 to the largest sheds around 8×8.
  • Medium sheds: Come in sizes ranging from 8×10 to 10×12.
  • Large Sheds: These come in sizes ranging from 10×14 to 12×16.
  • Extra Large Sheds: These come in sizes ranging from 12×10 to 30×40.

Map Out the Flooring and Foundation

Not all storage sheds include a floor. If you are planning on using your shed for storage, it’s important to consider what kind of flooring you want and how you will set up the foundation. For example, if you are storing heavy equipment or tools, you will want a sturdier floor that can handle the weight.

shed foundation
Source: siteprep.com

If you are using the shed as a workspace, you may want to get a concrete floor. This will provide a level and durable surface for you to work on. You can also insulate the floor to make it more comfortable to work in.

Should You Opt for Professional Installation or Go DIY?

This is determined by how much time you have, how skilled you are, and how much money you want to spend. If you are capable and want to save money, you may buy a shed kit and construct it yourself with the assistance of a friend or relative.

Prefab shelters come with simple instruction booklets that any beginner builder can understand. With a little time and a buddy, anybody with household equipment can construct anything from a little metal shed to a huge wooden structure.