What Type of Shed Should I Buy?

The three main shed types include wooden, metal, and plastic (or resin).  Wooden sheds are generally made from softwoods that include pine or spruce, but can also be made from larch or Douglas fir, and the more expensive and wonderfully scented cedar.  Most sheds in the U.K are made from wood, but there are metal sheds and plastic (or resin) sheds available. Metal sheds are sometimes chosen for their resistance to rot and the decreased possibility of catching fire, while plastic sheds are sometimes chosen for their ease of fitting together and their minimal requirement for maintenance.  Choosing a shed type really just depends upon the needs and taste of the gardener.

Wooden Sheds
The wooden shed is the traditional shed type; it is one that can be created in just about any size or shape imaginable.  Wooden sheds are completely customisable.  They can be painted in any colour and design, which makes it easy to match the shed to the house and the surrounding gardens.  Unique features like window flower boxes or cupolas can easily dress up a wooden shed.  The inside of these sheds can be customised as easily as the outside.  Cabinets and shelves can be hung on the walls, potting areas can be created, and loft space can be made to provide additional storage in what may be dead space in a different shed type.  Wooden sheds do require a bit more work on the inside to create a finished look that is easier to maintain.  Without finished walls and a ceiling, a wooden shed will have exposed beams and braces that are more difficult to clean and can offer bugs more hiding places.  In general, wooden shed kits are a bit more expensive than plastic (resin) or metal kits of a similar size.  Wood is also vulnerable to the elements, though it is a very strong material.  Wood can rot and deteriorate from harsh weather, insects, and water.  This means the paint finish, which protects the wood, will require repainting as well as other maintenance as it peels and fades over time, but this can be minimalized by ensuring that the wood is pressure treated before purchase.

Metal Sheds
The material used to make metals sheds is either galvanised aluminium or steel.  Metals sheds kits are generally the least expensive of the shed types and are often the common shed type for first-time shed owners.  Metals sheds are not as strong as the wooden or resin types so it is a good idea to purchase an anchoring kit to ensure the shed remains intact, especially in climates that have the tendency for high winds and storms.  It is very easy to dent metal sheds and they are susceptible to rusting.  They are not as aesthetically appealing as wooden sheds, or even plastic sheds, and there are not as many options for size and shape. They are available in a variety of colours that require frequent painting to maintain a new look.  Metal shed kits often do not include a floor so it is important to consider the type of foundation that it will be build upon. The foundation may limit the type of storage.  For instance, a gravel foundation may limit the storage to items like lawn equipment.  Customising the interior of a metal shed is limited and metal shed kits are sometimes more complicated to assemble. If this is the case, metals sheds can be purchased pre-built and can be delivered directly to their new home.

Plastic (Resin) Sheds
Resin sheds may be called plastic, vinyl, or even high-density polyethylene sheds.  Resin sheds are the most recent shed type to come on the market. They are quickly becoming popular because they are lighter, stronger, and more durable.  The high quality plastic material is strengthened by integrated steel supports and a double-wall construction in some resin sheds, while others are constructed with a single wall panel.  These shed types are often favoured because they are virtually maintenance free. The material is UV-protected, stain-resistant, resistant to cracking, fading, rotting, rusting, and never needs to be painted or stained. A variety of sizes are available and there are even expansion kits for customisation. Building resin sheds is easier than building wooden or metal shed types. The resin-shed kits assemble quickly and easily with less time, fewer tools, and no need for any real knowledge of carpentry (unlike wooden sheds).& The cost of resin sheds is more expensive than the metal shed type, but less expensive than the wooden shed type. Though the overall construction of the resin-shed type is strong, the walls cannot withstand as much weight hanging from them as wooden sheds can. While resin sheds can be appealing to the eye and even decorative, they cannot be shingled or painted. However, there are a number of upgrade options for adding accessories like windows, lighting, skylights, peg strips, and shelving; all without additional cutting, drilling, or additional wiring. Resin sheds also have floor panels and plastic walls creating a clean finished interior.

Take a look at some of the sheds we have to offer, or if you want to know more about choosing the right shed for you take a look at our video below.

Wooden Sheds
Metal Sheds
Plastic Sheds