The selection of the right outdoor storage shed can be a big difference in the organization of your backyard, garden, patio or outdoor workspace. Having a shed on the property can give you a space to store your gardening supplies, lawn equipment, bicycles, seasonal decorations, outdoor furniture and household items, and help keep your property clean and tidy.
There are a variety of different sizes, materials, designs, and features available, so it may be hard to determine what kind of outdoor storage shed to get for your needs. This reference explains the most significant considerations to make to decide on the shed that suits your space, finances, climate and storage needs.
1. Determine What You Need to Store
The first thing you need to do is make a list of all the things that you intend to store in the shed. This will help you to gauge the amount of storage space you will need.
For instance, a small shed can be used for:
- Gardening tools and hand tools
- Small lawn equipment
- Plant pots and soil
- Pool accessories
- Outdoor toys
- Seasonal decorations
If you have bicycles, lawn mowers, snow blowers, ladders, patio furniture, and several items of outdoor equipment, you might need a bigger shed.
Consider future storage needs as well. A shed is a bit bigger than you might need now will avoid the problem of needing more space later.
2. Choose the Right Shed Size
Outdoor storage sheds come in a number of sizes, varying from a small utility shed to a big shed that can be used like a small outside room.
Before purchasing, determine space in your yard. Be sure to allow adequate space around the shed for installation, ventilation, maintenance, and entry with a door.
Take into account the space for floor and vertical space. Additional storage space can be achieved with a shed featuring higher walls or a pitched roof, without the need for a wider base area.
For a few small garden tools, a small shed may be useful. When a wider model is desirable for riding mower, bicycles, shelving and large equipment, a larger model is available.
3. Consider the Shed Material
One of the most significant considerations of picking an outdoor storage shed is the material it is constructed with. Often these are made of resin or plastic, wood or metal.
Resin Storage Sheds
Resin sheds are favored for being typically light in weight, easy to maintain, and waterproof. If the resin is of a high quality, it can be used outdoors and be durable enough without the need of painting or sealing often.
For homeowners seeking convenient storage and relatively low maintenance, resin sheds are the ideal choice.
Wood Storage Sheds
Wood sheds come with a traditional look and can be used in gardens or residential landscapes. They can also be personalized with paint and stain, shelves, windows, and more.
Wood however, generally needs more upkeep than resin. Sealing or painting every now and then could be required as this is a way of safeguarding the material from moisture and weather exposure, depending on the climate and construction.
Metal Storage Sheds
Metal sheds are typically employed for tools and equipment, and they can be very structural. However, potential corrosion resistance, insulation, ventilation, and condensation are important issues to consider based on local climate.
Don't just look at the cost of materials but also maintenance and/or longevity.
4. Check Weather Resistance
The rain, sun, wind, temperature changes, and humidity are all factors that affect a shed that is outdoors. This should be, therefore, a consideration of weather resistance.
If you reside in a rainy or even humid place, search for a shed that does not let any moisture or water in. UV resistant materials can be used to minimize fading and material degradation in sunny areas.
When strong winds or extreme weather conditions are prevalent in your area, consider the building style, tie down system, roof design, and installation specifications of the shed.
Consider the doors, roof, seams, floor, and ventilation system, instead of just the wall material, to make sure that your shed is weather resistant.
5. Think About Security
Security should be in the consideration for storing costly tools, bikes, power equipment, or other valuable items.
Watch out for hinges, strong door frames, locked doors and secure windows. Some sheds are designed to accommodate padlocks or other locking systems.
If the equipment is of value, a ground anchor and/or a lock box for a shed can be used to help secure equipment.
6. Evaluate Door Size and Accessibility
Even if the interior of a shed is large, the squeeze on the door can make it difficult to use the shed.
Before buying, think about the biggest article of furniture you must relocate within. Large double doors or an entrance designed specifically for the kind of lawn mower, wheelbarrow, bicycle or large storage container may be necessary.
Don't forget about door placement. Accessing the door towards the convenient pathway can make everyday life so much easier.
Easy-access doors are as significant as overall storage space for structures that are used regularly.
7. Look at Ventilation
Moisture and condensation inside an outdoor storage shed are controlled with good ventilation.
Ventilation is particularly beneficial when storing tools, outdoor equipment, chemicals or materials that are required to be kept dry. Vents can allow air circulation and minimize the buildup of humid air.
Ventilation should be planned in conjunction with weather protection however. Openings should not be designed to let rain water easily get into the shed.
8. Consider the Foundation
The foundation is used to provide stability and level the shed. These can be compacted gravel, concrete slabs, pavers or other appropriate bases based on shed design and local conditions.
Always follow manufacturer’s directions for installation. Weighing down the support of a shed structure can be minimized by ensuring doors function properly with a stable, level foundation.
Larger sheds may also have local building requirements. Refer to local regulations prior to installation, especially if the shed is over the size limits or set in permanently.
9. Plan the Interior Organization
The outside of a shed is not the only factor to consider. Think about how you will organize the inside.
Use vertical wall space for shelving, and hooks for gardening tools, hoses, and other small equipment. Using freestanding cabinets and storage bins can be used to help separate seasonal items.
If you plan to store long handled tools, ensure that the shed has sufficient wall space and floor space.
A well-organized shed can offer a lot more storage that a larger shed that is not organized.
10. Compare Cost and Long-Term Value
While price will be a factor, the lowest-priced outdoor storage shed might not always be the best option.
Make comparisons on the following factors:
- Purchase price
- Material durability
- Maintenance requirements
- Installation costs
- Foundation requirements
- Warranty coverage
- Available accessories
- Expected service life
The low maintenance shed, may cost more on the upfront but less to maintain and less effort in the long run.
11. Match the Shed to Your Backyard
When the shed will be noticeable in your yard, appearance is important.
Take into account the roof design, colour, windows, doors and form. A well-designed shed can blend seamlessly into your home and garden design, making it more than just a practical addition, but also a feature that enhances the overall aesthetic.
There are different colors and styles of modern resin storage sheds to choose from that make it easier to find a shed that would match the modern and contemporary outdoor environment.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best material for an outdoor storage shed?
Each situation is different and can't be solved with just one material. Materials used for resin include its ease of maintenance and moisture resistance, while wood is popular for its aesthetic appeal and customizability, and metal is preferred for its durability and strength. The choice should be based on your climate, storage requirements, budget and maintenance preferences.
How big should an outdoor storage shed be?
Take care of what you want to store in the equipment and what you may need in the future, and select a size accordingly. Before buying a shed, measure large items like lawn mowers and bicycles.
Do outdoor storage sheds need a foundation?
A stable, even foundation is best for most sheds. The foundation for sheds will vary according to the shed design, dimensions, the soil in the area and how it is going to be used.
How can I keep my shed organized?
Utilize wall hooks, shelving, cabinets, storage bins and utilize vertical space. Store items used often close to the front and larger equipment on the floor where it will be easy to access.
Final Thoughts
The first step in learning how to select an exterior storage shed is to know your storage needs and space. The size of the shed, its material, resistance to weather, security, ventilation, foundation and internal organization are just a few of the factors that can impact your experience over time.
Not all homeowners want the biggest shed or the least expensive shed on the market. It is an elegant storage solution, has adequate capacity, is suitable for local climate, has proper dimensions to fit the available space and has manageable maintenance requirements.
Before you buy, assess the amount of storage you have and need now and in the future and select an outdoor storage shed that will help to organize your backyard and offer valuable storage for many years.
