The right storage shed size can translate into the right amount of utility your outdoor storage will provide. The shed is too small can be quickly filled up, and if it is too large than it will consume the precious space in your yard and will cost you more.
But how much storage space should I have for my shed? The answer depends on your storage requirements, how frequently you will make use of the goods and whether you think your storage requirements will increase down the road.
This guide provides information on shed sizes, storage needs and some helpful planning advice to help you pick the right shed for outdoor storage.
What Determines the Storage Shed Size You Need?
When looking for a shed, make a list of all the items you want to store. Reflect on what items you have and what you might buy in the coming few years.
These are the key factors:
- The number and size of items you need to store
- Whether you need floor space for large equipment
- How frequently you access stored items
- Whether you need shelves, hooks, or cabinets
- Whether you want workspace inside the shed
- Available yard space
- Local building and property requirements
- Your future storage needs
A straightforward inventory may be a great way to determine the amount of space you need on the floor and walls.
Common Storage Shed Sizes
The available storage sheds come in a range of sizes; however, there are some storage shed sizes that are very popular for residential applications.
4×4 or 4×6 Shed
For simple storage a small 4×4 or 4×6 shed may be sufficient. May be appropriate for seasonals and small garden and outdoor equipment and tools.
This size works best for people who don't have a lot of things they want to store, as it takes up less floor space.
6×6 or 6×8 Shed
A 6×6 or 6×8 shed offers significantly greater storage space, and will fit in many residential yards.
Lawn and garden tools, bicycles, outdoor toys, folding chairs, gardening supplies and seasonal decorations fit into this size. Wall hooks or shelves can make a huge difference for organization.
8×10 Shed
For those who need more storage than a simple shed provides, an 8×10 shed provides a bit more space, around 80 square feet.
It can offer space for storage bins, outdoor furniture, lawn equipment, bicycles, garden tools and other larger items in the household. It can also contain a small work area with good organization.
10×12 Shed
A 10×12 shed provides approximately 120 square feet of floor space. This larger footprint can be helpful to families that have a lot of outdoor equipment, or homeowners who need storage and workspace.
A walkway may be available and a lawn mower, bicycles, shelving units, garden equipment, seasonal items and larger storage containers can be stored.
12×16 Shed and Larger
A 12'x16' shed or larger might be needed if you require large amounts of storage or if you want a dedicated workshop.
Sheds can serve as more than just a place to store all your items. They can be designed to include space for workshops, hobby spaces, gardening, equipment storage, or a combination of equipment storage and workspace, depending on the design and local regulations.
How Much Space Do Different Items Need?
A good way to get an idea of the size of a shed is to categorize things inside it.
Gardening Equipment
Garden tools like pruning tools, hoes, rakes and shovels need relatively little floor space but are very suited to vertical storage.
A wall mounted tool organiser helps keep long handled tools off the ground and helps to create a bigger environment for a small shed.
Lawn Mowers
As a rule, a push mower will use up less room than a riding mower. If you have a riding mower, check the width and length of it to choose the right shed.
Do not forget to take account of the width of the doors and maneuvering room. While there may be sufficient inside floor area for a mower, if the entryway is too narrow, it may be hard to use a shed.
Bicycles
Upright, bicycle storage on the ground can take up precious floor space. Bicycle racks or vertical storage solutions mounted on the walls can help maximize available space.
When storing several bikes, make sure to include their dimensions when determining the size of shed you need.
Outdoor Furniture
Patio furniture, chairs, tables, patio cushions, umbrellas, etc. can consume a lot of space during the winter months when they are not being used.
When moving outdoor furniture to the shed, check to see if the tables and chairs can be folded or stacked. If you are not using folding furniture, then you will need a bigger shed.
Seasonal Decorations
Plastic bins are usually used for holiday decorations and seasonal equipment. They are easy to stack and are perfect for space saving in terms of vertical space.
Do make sure there is enough room for easy access to individual bins without disturbing anything in front of them, however.
Don't Forget Walking and Access Space
One of the most common errors that people make is estimating the volume of all their possessions.
Additionally, there should be usable access space.
For instance, if you are filling all the square footage of an 8×10 shed with boxes and equipment then the capacity might be very high, but it can be difficult to find what you are looking for.
If possible, provide at least one usable path to walk through the shed. Typical items should be stored close to the front entrance and seasonal or seldom used items should be stored towards the rear or upper shelves.
Should I Choose a Bigger Shed?
If you have to choose between 2 sizes, think about your storage requirements.
You might end up buying:
- A larger lawn mower
- Additional bicycles
- More gardening equipment
- Outdoor furniture
- Sports equipment
- Holiday decorations
- Additional storage containers
A slightly larger than needed shed affords some flexibility for the future.
But size doesn't always matter. The larger the shed, the more site preparation may be required, the more yard space will be needed, and the more local permitting or setback requirements may apply.
The aim is to select the appropriate size that will not take up space that is not being used while allowing adequate outdoor space.
How to Maximize Small Storage Shed Space
If your yard is limited, organization can be just as important as shed size.
Consider these storage solutions:
Use vertical walls: Install hooks, pegboards, racks, and shelves to use wall height.
Choose stackable containers: Uniform storage bins are easier to organize and stack.
Store long tools vertically: Rakes, shovels, and brooms can be mounted against the wall.
Keep frequently used items accessible: Place everyday tools near the door.
Use overhead space: Depending on the shed structure, overhead shelves can hold lightweight seasonal items.
Create zones: Separate gardening equipment, sports gear, tools, decorations, and household storage.
Good organization can make a smaller shed significantly more practical.
What Shed Size Is Right for You?
A small shed is probably sufficient for simple garden tools, a medium-sized shed for bicycles, lawn equipment and seasonal storage, and a large shed, such as a two-car garage, will hold lawn furniture, stoves, and other garden items. Sheds are better for large storage banks or multi-use (storage and workspace).
Before ordering, it's important to measure the objects and take into account space needs for doors, walkways, shelves, and future purchases.
The storage shed should not just be big enough to accommodate, but it should be a storage shed that feels right for the individual. It should be easy to store, easy to find and easy to organize your belongings.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a 6×8 shed big enough?
A 6×8 shed provides 48 square feet of floor space and can work well for garden tools, bicycles, outdoor equipment, and seasonal storage when organized efficiently.
Is an 8×10 shed big enough for a lawn mower?
Generally an 8×10 shed is large enough to store a lawn mower and other tools, but the size and space of the mower should be compared with the door opening and interior of the shed.
How do I calculate the storage space I need?
Inventory, size and estimate larger items, calculate the required floor space and provide room for walking, access, shelving, and future storage.
Should I buy a shed larger than I currently need?
If you are planning to expand on your storage requirements in the future, then some additional space can be helpful. But think about the size of your yard, budget and regional needs before selecting a bigger model.
Final Thoughts
You can calculate the size of a storage shed you need from the things you would like to store and the usage of the shed. Small sheds can be used for simple tools and accessories, medium and large sheds can be used to store equipment, seasonal items, outdoor furniture, and even workspace.
Take measurements of the largest items you need, remember to plan space for access, consider vertical storage options, and consider the needs you might have in the future before you buy. However, with the proper planning, you are able to pick a storage shed which will give you the right amount of convenience and room to store your items, while still being able to utilize the outdoor space.
