One of the most crucial choices you make when purchasing or building an outdoor storage shed is the type of material you want to use. The material has an impact on durability, weather resistance, maintenance, appearance, cost and your shed's ability to protect your tools, garden equipment, bicycles and other belongings.
Therefore, what material is best to use in an outdoor storage shed? Resin or plastic are a great overall option for many homeowners due to the weather resistance, minimal maintenance and long-term value. But wood and metal sheds do have their pros and cons as well that depend on your budget, climate, storage requirements, and aesthetic.
Compare the most popular materials for building sheds outside so you can choose the best material.
What Materials Are Outdoor Storage Sheds Made From?
There are three types of materials normally used for outdoor storage sheds.
- Resin or plastic
- Wood
- Metal
All materials possess their own advantages and disadvantages. By knowing these differences, you can choose a shed that best suits your outdoor space and storage needs.
1. Resin: A Low-Maintenance Choice
Resin storage sheds are constructed from weather resistant materials like high-density polyethylene (HDPE), polypropylene or other similar plastics. They are a favorite for home storage due to their relatively low maintenance.
The biggest advantage of resin is that it is weather resistant. The purpose of a quality resin shed is to resist rain, moisture, sun and temperature fluctuations in the outdoor environment. Resin will not rot, warp, or become infested with termites like untreated wood.
Resin sheds are also easy to clean. Dirt and dust can, in many instances, be washed away using water and mild soap.
The other benefit is installation. Resin sheds are made from interlocking panels and prefabricated elements, which are simpler to put together than wood structures.
Advantages of resin sheds
- Excellent resistance to moisture
- Low maintenance
- Resistant to rot and insects
- Easy to clean
- Lightweight compared with many wood structures
- Available in different sizes and designs
- Suitable for many residential applications
Resin is a good option for homeowners who value an easy-to-maintain outdoor storage unit.
2. Wood: Best for a Traditional Appearance
Storage sheds have been around for many generations and are made of wood. It is still popular because of the natural look and feel that it offers in gardens, patios and gardened yards.
Wood sheds can also be designed in a variety of ways. It can be painted or stained outside; it can be fitted with windows; it can be fitted with shelving; it can have the interior layout altered.
But, wood is more demanding than the resin. If the shed is not adequately protected, it may deteriorate over time due to the elements of rain, humidity, insects and the sun.
You may need to occasionally paint, stain, seal or repair a wood shed. The construction of foundation and the appropriate ventilation are also critical factors affecting a long service life.
Advantages of wood sheds
- Natural and attractive appearance
- Highly customizable
- Easy to paint or stain
- Strong structural options
- Suitable for larger storage buildings
Wood may be the right material if appearance and customization are more important than minimizing maintenance.
3. Metal: Strong and Durable
Mostly, metal sheds are built of materials like galvanized steel or other metal materials that are resistant to corrosion. They are frequently used in situations that require strength and security.
A good metal shed is likely to be very impact resistant and hard to damage, particularly to give more resistance to impact than lightweight storage structures.
But there are some considerations to take when using metal. The steel can get hot under direct sunlight and condensation can form inside the shed if the ventilation is not adequate. Damage to the protective coating or if the shed is exposed to severe environmental conditions can also cause corrosion to be a concern.
Advantages of metal sheds
- Strong construction
- Good resistance to impacts
- Suitable for tools and equipment
- Low risk of rot
- Can provide good security
Metal can be extremely beneficial in situations where strength or safety is a key factor.
Resin vs. Wood vs. Metal Storage Sheds
There is no material that can be the best option for outdoor storage shed for all!
| Feature | Resin | Wood | Metal |
|---|---|---|---|
| Weather resistance | Excellent | Good with maintenance | Good |
| Maintenance | Low | High | Low to moderate |
| Rot resistance | Excellent | Requires protection | Excellent |
| Insect resistance | Excellent | Requires treatment | Excellent |
| Customization | Moderate | Excellent | Limited to moderate |
| Appearance | Modern | Natural | Functional |
| Installation | Relatively easy | Moderate | Moderate |
| Security | Good | Good | Very good |
The ideal option is dependent upon your anticipations for your shed.
What Is the Best Shed Material for Rainy Weather?
When living in a place with a lot of rain or humidity, moisture resistance should be a priority.
Resin is naturally water resistant and will not rot as untreated wood. Metal may also be a good choice, particularly with an anti-corrosive coating, although condensation and rust also should be taken into account.
In wet climates wood can be used but needs to be carefully sealed, drained, vented and maintained.
Resin may be a good option for homes in wet climates where water-related maintenance issues are a concern.
What Is the Best Material for a Shed in a Hot Climate?
Different challenges in hot and sunny environments. Outdoor items can change over time due to UV exposure and dark colours absorb a lot of heat.
While selecting a resin shed, search for the one that is built using UV resistant material or UV protective additives. A metal shed will allow for ventilation to help lower condensation and heating up.
While wood can be used to achieve a natural look, it also requires protection from the sun's rays to minimize fading, cracking and surface degradation caused by exposure to UV radiation.
Whatever the material used, adequate ventilation of an outdoor storage shed will help improve its interior conditions.
Which Shed Material Requires the Least Maintenance?
Resin is typically one of the lowest maintenance choices if that is your goal.
Regular painting or staining of resin is not necessary and routine cleaning can often be done with soap and water. Metal is also relatively easy to maintain, albeit any damaged coatings should be fixed to prevent corrosion.
The most demanding type of maintenance is usually performed on wood, since it must be protected from dampness, insects, and the sun.
If you're looking for a low maintenance backyard storage shed, resin may be a consideration.
What Should You Consider Before Buying a Shed?
The materials used in building an outdoor storage house is significant but it isn't all that matters.
1. Climate
Take into account local rainfall, humidity, temperature, snow, wind and sunshine. The material that is suitable for a dry climate may need more maintenance in a wet climate.
2. Shed Foundation
A sturdy, level foundation preserves moisture- and movement-proofing of the shed. The foundation of the shed can be a concrete slab, a gravel base, pavers or another appropriate foundation system, depending on the type of shed.
3. Ventilation
Adequate ventilation helps control heat and condensation. This is particularly important in humid climates or for storing items that may be impacted by moisture.
4. Storage Requirements
Consider what you want to keep in the refrigerator. Depending on the size of the small gardening tools, just a small shed may be needed, but bicycles, lawn equipment, snow blowers or large outdoor equipment may need wider doors and extra space on the floor.
5. Security
For items such as tools or equipment that cost more, consider reinforced doors, secure locking points and strong construction.
6. Maintenance
Think about the amount of time you wish to dedicate to upkeep of the shed. Resin or metal might be a more convenient option than wood if you want a structure that needs less painting, staining or repairs.
Is Resin Better Than Wood for an Outdoor Storage Shed?
Resin isn't necessarily the superior building material for everyone. Both materials have their priorities.
If low maintenance, moisture resistant, easy to clean and easy to install, then choose resin.
If you're looking for a more traditional shed design with extensive customization and a natural look, it's best to choose wood.
Resin is a good compromise between durability, weather resistance and low maintenance, making it an attractive choice for many homeowners who want a practical material that will withstand harsh environmental conditions.
Final Thoughts
So, what material is the best for an outside storage shed?
There are many residential applications where resin is one of the more overall desirable materials, as it is relatively low maintenance, has good weather resistance and is available in a variety of sizes and designs.
For those looking for a more traditional and aesthetically pleasing look, wood is a solid choice, whereas, for those who value strength and security, metal may be the more practical option.
Think about the local weather, foundation, storage space, ventilation, security, budget and desired maintenance before purchase. These are the considerations you'll use when selecting a material that will ensure your outdoor storage shed offers secure storage and value for years to come.
