How to choose the right shed

Garden shed types and their uses

Shed types vary, and choices mostly come down to aesthetics and size. There are benefits to each style, and popular uses that are good to know about! From material variations to different roof types, understanding the nuances can help you pick garden storage that goes well with your space, storage needs, and how you plan to use it.

Shed materials explained

First things first: what would you like your shed to be made of? All materials have their advantages; it’s a matter of how you want to use them, where you plan to build them, and how you want them to look.

Wooden sheds for everyday items

Wooden sheds are the classic choice for your garden, with a huge range of sizes, roof types, and cladding types available.

Timber sheds can effortlessly blend in with the natural look of your garden, making them one of the most versatile sheds you can get. From tool sheds to bike sheds, elegant and space-saving corner sheds, and potting sheds for getting ahead with your garden planting, there’s no shortage of options to find your favourite.

Unlike metal sheds, wood sheds only stand the test of time if they are correctly maintained. Their natural material makes them susceptible to termites, mould and rot if they're not treated regularly.

Dip-treated sheds

Dip treated shedshave wood panels which have been ‘dipped’ in treatment. They’re a cost-effective option for the price-conscious gardener, though you’ll need to keep on top of maintenance once a year to keep it protected from the elements.

Pressure-treated sheds

Pressure-treated sheds go through a more intensive treatment process which makes them more durable and protected. They may cost more, but you won’t have to treat them as often as a dip treated shed.

Weatherproof & rot-free plastic sheds

If you’re watching the pennies, a plastic shed can be a great value alternative for storing your garden tools and other bits & bobs.

You don’t need a shedload of equipment to set up a plastic garden shed. They’re easy to build and just as easy to maintain, as any dirt on the outside can be simply wiped off.

These weatherproof garden buildings are also quite lightweight compared to timber and metal sheds, making them easier to move – however, that also means they may not offer the same stability and protection than other materials if you’re storing high-value items in them.

Top tip: plastic sheds are a popular choice for renting, too! Once the time comes to move out, they’re easy to take apart and lightweight for transporting.

Metal sheds for extra security

When it comes to storing high-value items and keeping your outdoor equipment safe, there’s no beating a metal shed! There’s a great variety of sizes available, from simple tool sheds to secure bike sheds for storing high-value items.

Steel sheds are famed for their durability against the elements, keeping things like power tools protected from rain, snow, and almost everything in between. They also require very little maintenance, but you could always top up any scuffs and scrapes with some metal paint.

Unlike wood and plastic sheds, your metal shed stands strong in extreme temperatures without the risk of warping, but they will get hot – with all sheds, proper ventilation is key where possible!

Cladding: overlap, shiplap, or tongue & groove sheds?

Who knew that the wooden box you use to store your lawn mower had so many variables? Overlap, shiplap, and tongue & groove refer to how the wood panels are connected, and they play an important role in how your shed looks and, more importantly, its durability.

Overlap sheds are usually the most cost-effective choice if you’re looking to save the pennies. With overlap sheds, the wood panels are simply overlapped with each other – a quick and simple construction, though they can be prone to draughts over time.

Shiplap and tongue & groove sheds use a more rigid form of cladding using interlocking wood panels which offers better weather resistance, strength, and a flat surface on which to paint or add shelves.

Shiplap and tongue & groove are almost identical: shiplap is a form of tongue & groove, but with added overlap at the bottom and a distinctive curved edge to help water flow off.

Types of shed roofs and what they’re best for

What are apex sheds?

Imagine the shape of a traditional house roof, with 2 sloping sides which meet in the middle at the highest point. Slap a door under there, and you’re got yourself an apex shed.

It’s a classic look, great for water run-off, and has the benefit of added headroom so you can wander about in it without banging your head – always a win.

Having the door on the end of the shed also gives you easy access to the length of the shed, so wheeling in your lawn mower or bikes is nice and easy.

What are reverse apex sheds?

A reverse apex shed is simply an apex shed with the door on the long side instead of at the end.

Reverse apex sheds have the same storage benefits as an apex shed, but with the added benefit of giving easier access to your shed and a design which sits along the wall lengthways. Depending on the space you have, you may find this a better fit.

What is a pent shed?

Pent sheds have one sloping roof surface. They’re simple and tidy, great for sheds which sit against a wall, and allowing you to pop a gutter on the lower side. Not only will this protect your shed, but you can add a water butt to harvest rainwater for your gardening. Not sure how? Here’s a guide on how to install a water butt.

You should keep an eye on your shed roof, and check for pesky leaks. When your shed reaches a certain age, you’ll probably want to check out some new roofing kits to keep your belongings safe.

Shed sizes explained

There are loads of sizes and layouts of sheds to choose from. The easiest way to help you pick the most appropriate size is by popping it all into a simple table! As you can see, smaller sheds are a great fit for compact gardens where only basic items need storing. On the other end of the scale, the largest sheds can be repurposed for all kinds of things, from creating a home bar space to installing a home office.

Which shed size is best?

The first thing to consider is the amount of room you have in your garden. Take measurements of where you’d like your shed to go, and don’t forget to leave allowance for the doors to open freely. If your shed is going in an unused corner of your garden, consider using a corner shed which is designed for purpose and won’t stick out as much!

Next, have a think about what you’ll be storing in your shed. If it’ll mostly be simple garden hand tools and plant pots, a small wooden shed or potting shed is all you need to get gardening. If you’re looking for a safe space for the lawn mower, power tools, or bulky workshop machinery, a large metal shed with double doors is probably a winner.

Your shed FAQs answered

Do I need a shed base?

No matter where it’s going, it’s always a good idea to use a shed base in either the same size, or slightly larger than, your shed. This ensures that your shed sits level, and is protected from rising damp from the ground which can lead to all kinds of problems in the long run and dramatically affect your shed’s lifespan!

Depending on which base you go for, it’s never a bad idea to prepare the ground first before you install your shed base – it’ll get heavy once the shed is on there with everything in it. Using a tiller to clear up the soil before laying down a layer of sand, paving, or stone can help, as can the use of a plate compactor to flatten it all out.

Where should I put my shed?

You should place your shed somewhere out the way but easily accessible, and popping it flush with a wall or fence will give it some protection from the worst of the weather.

For potting sheds, pick a spot that gets plenty of natural light so that your seeds & bulbs can thrive!

Which sheds offer better security?

Heavy-duty metal sheds featuring pick and drill-resistant locks, thick steel panels and deadlocks provide optimal protection from theft and break-ins. Specialist sheds are designed for storing high-value items like bikes and equipment, making them a great choice when maximum security takes priority.

Is shed insulation necessary?

Insulation isn’t necessary for sheds used strictly for storage purposes. You may want to consider shed insulation when you expect to spend prolonged time in the unit, or if you’d prefer an extra layer of protection during extreme temperatures. Many homeowners choose to fit insulation to prevent mould and moisture damage to their items, but it can also make the space feel more comfortable all year round.

Do sheds require planning permission?

In most cases, you don’t need to get planning permission to build a storage shed in your garden as sheds and summerhouses are filed under permitted planning development. You only need to consider filing for planning permission when you plan to use a shed for living purposes. If you’re planning to use your shed as an extra bathroom or kitchen, you’ll need to apply for planning permission before you build the shed.