Looking for storage? Consider these important questions.
Anytime you plant a garden there are tools involved. What starts off as a hoe and a few shovels can quickly multiply into rakes, pruners, fertilizer and more. And while your chosen tools are necessary to help you cultivate your dream, they can often take up quite a lot of space.
Adding a shed or storage building to your yard or lane is a long-term investment. Taking the time to get things right before you buy or build means your shed will be more likely to meet your needs over the long term. If you’re in the market for a garden shed or any outdoor storage, here are some things to consider.
Things to consider when choosing a garden shed
How will you use your shed?
A simple shed can serve multiple purposes. Will it store only garden tools? Or will you add lawn care equipment, bags of fertilizer, a composter or other outdoor supplies? What about adding a potting bench for potting up plants? If you expect your needs to change over time, invest in a multi-purpose shed with built-in versatility.
What size do you need?
If your shed will only store garden tools, a smaller design (6’ x 8’ or less) with room for hanging and standing tools will probably meet your needs. If you plan to add lawn equipment, you’ll need something larger (8’ x 10’ or more). Start by making a list of what you hope to store. Don’t forget to consider the height of your building along with the length and the width. Whether you need single or double doors is also worth thinking about. If you have the space and budget to go larger overall, you’ll likely use the room down the road.
Garden sheds for small yards
- 4’ x 2’ garden chalet shed
- 6’ x 3’ garden patio shed
- 8′ x 4′ space saver storage shed
- 8′ x 4′ garden saver storage shed
Garden sheds for medium-sized yards
- 6’ x 6’ maximizer cedar storage shed
- 8′ x 4′ space saver storage shed
- 8′ x 4′ garden saver storage shed
- 8′ x 8′ Sunshed garden shed
Garden sheds for large yards
- 8′ x 12′ sunshed garden shed
- 12′ x 12′ sunshed garden shed
- EZ Fit homestead shed
- EZ Fit craftsman shed
Which materials are best for a shed?
Garden sheds are available in a variety of materials including wood, plastic, resin, composite, and metal. We’ve listed the most common materials below and their approximate cost. All pricing is based on a basic rectangle design with no more than 40 square feet of floor space.
| Material | Cost | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wood | $1500-$5000 | Easy to customize. Available in a wide variety of styles and price ranges. Can be painted and stained. | Wood siding requires regular maintenance to minimize weathering over time. |
| Metal | $500-$3000 | Durable and long-lasting. Can withstand weather. Comes in a variety of colors. | May rust over time without regular maintenance. |
| Composite/plastic | $300-$2000 | Durable and relatively inexpensive. Can withstand wet weather. | Difficult to customize. May be damaged over time by the sun. |
Does your shed need electricity or heating?
Most small garden sheds won’t need heat or lighting, but if you’re planning for a step-in model, you may want to consider wiring up your shed. Minimal windows mean more storage space but also less visibility. Similarly, adding heat to your shed is important if you plan to store tools or supplies that can’t withstand extreme temperatures or fluctuating humidity. If you plan to store garden produce in your shed, a small heater can help ensure your preferred crops last as long as possible.
Does a garden shed need a floor?
If you plan to store yard and garden equipment in your shed, placing the structure on level pavers or a concrete foundation is optimal. With these options you can drive or push in lawn mowers and garden tractors without worrying about the added weight. For garden tools alone, an integrated floor can keep things clean, contained and pest-free.
Types of garden sheds available
DIY garden sheds
If you have the tools and skills, building your own garden shed is often the most cost effective way to store your garden tools. You’ll need to gather structural material, roofing and siding, along with any hardware required. You’ll also need to find a design. Some excellent DIY garden shed ideas include this space-saving cedar option or this simple lean-to shed.
Insert image: DIY shed
Garden shed kits
Given the current lumber shortages and price increases, getting the material you want at a reasonable price might not be easy in your area. If you can’t secure or cut your own lumber, buying a garden shed kit is another way to save. Pref-fab wooden kits come ready to install, with all the hardware you’ll need making it extra easy to build a shed. Most models benefit from a coat of stain or protectant to prolong the lifespan of the wood.
Pre-built sheds
Most hardware stores now sell pre-built sheds ready to go. Purchasing a shed is the easiest option (and also the most expensive). That’s because pre-built sheds include everything you need, without the work. When purchasing a pre-built shed, it’s important to prepare your foundation or base according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Pre-built sheds come in a variety of materials, like this composite plastic model.
What else do you need to know?
- Buy sheds made from high quality materials. Your garden shed is an outdoor building and you want it to last. Don’t skimp on siding or structural elements.
- Prepare your base carefully. As noted above, bases can be made from a variety of materials including concrete, pavers, metal, and timber. A sound base will give your shed the longest life possible. Be sure to clear and level the ground before installation.
- Survey your site and attain necessary permits. Depending on the size of your shed, your municipality may require permits before you build. There may also be setbacks from your property line that you’ll need to observe. Familiarize yourself with your local regulations and take care of the paperwork before you build or install your shed.
- Hire a handyman where necessary. Both kits and pre-builds can require an extra set of hands. Finding a local handyman (or woman) to install your kit, prepare your base, or rig up your watering system can help make the project easier.
The best garden shed for your yard
Once you’ve chosen and installed your shed, it’s time to have some fun with your design. If you like the whimsical look, painting, adding window boxes, or hanging baskets of flowers can help personalize your shed and make it an eye-catching feature of your home. If you prefer the utilitarian, leave your shed as is and enjoy finding your tools with ease every time you enter your yard.
Are you in the market for a garden or waste management shed? See our complete line of natural cedar sheds and other garden structures.
