3 Expert Tips To Choose A Shed

In selecting the right kind of shed, you need to think about what kind of functionality you need.

• Using it to store a few garden tools? => Vertical shed

If you are a hobby gardener looking for a place to store your equipment out of the elements, then a vertical shed could be a good option for you. Particularly if you only have a small space to work with.

Usually 5 feet tall by 4 feet wide by 3 feet deep, these sheds can be equipped with additional shelves and hooks. This makes them convenient for tidily storing away trowels, pruning shears, rakes, and other kinds of simple gardening tools with ease.

• Looking for a place for your bikes or bins? => Horizontal shed

Horizontal sheds make an excellent outdoor storage solution in small yards and even on balconies. They take up much less room than traditional sheds and are far less expensive. 

While they can also be used to store garden equipment, their shorter height (3 feet) means less space for shelves and will mean that you will have to bend down to access things.

However, they are ideal for securely storing garbage cans or any sporting equipment that you don't have room for in the house.

• Need to store a wider variety of tools or some supplies? => Traditional shed

If you have a more extensive garden to care for, more things to store, or more space to work with, a traditional shed is a great option. 

These kinds of sheds are available in a range of sizes and designs, while still being compact enough to fit into your back yard. You can opt for one that has plenty of specific storage space, or even one with a little working space.

There will, however, be a few things for you to think about if you do choose to go for this variety, such as the best size to meet your needs. Further guidance on this is included below.

• Require something a little bigger? => Barn or garage shed

If you are looking for a shed for commercial use, or to store extremely large objects, then barn or garage sheds may be a better option for you if you have the land space for them.

These types of sheds are ideal for housing farming supplies and equipment, setting up a workshop, or safely storing a car or other kind of vehicle.

The construction of your shed is undoubtedly a crucial aspect to think about when making your selection. There are several different types of material available, each with their own specific pros and cons. The best one for you depends on what your primary consideration is.

• Aesthetics a key factor? => Wood

Traditional wood is still one of the most popular options available. Its attractiveness and its customizability are probably the key reasons behind this.

Wooden sheds are available in a range of different styles and can easily be modified to suit your storage requirements. It's extremely simple for you to add in new shelves and hooks as you please. They can also be tailored to match the design of your house or garden through the use of shingles or paint.

A potential downside of this type of material is that it does require a little more looking after than other varieties. You will need to paint, varnish, and treat it regularly to keep it looking good and functioning well.

• Want something low-maintenance? => Plastic, resin or vinyl

Plastic or resin sheds offer all the durability of wooden ones, without requiring the same kind of regular care and maintenance. 

They avoid issues of rot or rust while being weather-resistant, easy to assemble, and to clean, and they can last a long time. Plastic is also lighter than other materials meaning that the shed can easily be moved around the space as needed.

However, there is quite a bit of variability in the quality of the materials used - and this could impact how sturdy, secure, and resistant to the elements the shed is. These types of sheds are also less customizable than their wooden counterparts, and some people feel that they are not as attractive.

• Needs to be cost-effective? => Metal 

Metal sheds are often the cheapest option available. They are robust, durable, and require little to no maintenance. 

These types of sheds are hardwearing against the elements and so are suitable for use in most types of environment year-round. They are also very secure, meaning that your tools and equipment will remain safe. 

The disadvantages of using metal as a shed material are that they are less visually appealing, more laborious to modify than other types, and can be susceptible to rust and corrosion if not properly cared for.

If you've decided to opt for a traditional shed, the next important decision to be made is regarding the size. 

• A small shed is 25-40 square feet. This type of shed is suitable for hanging tools, a push mower, and some basic garden supplies such as fertilizer. 
• A medium shed is 40-75 square feet. This would give you some extra space for storing wheelbarrows and tools for maintaining a larger garden, alongside any kind of hobby or sporting equipment. 
• A large is 75-100 square feet. You will need this size is you are looking to house bulky garden equipment such as a riding mower or a snowblower. Or if you want to store patio furniture inside at night or through the winter. 
• An extra-large shed is 100+ square feet. This is the best option for you if you would like to have a workshop or hobby space within your shed or if you wish to store larger items such as motorbikes.