Tips for Purchasing a New Shed

Finding the Perfect Fit for Your Garden

SEPTEMBER 27, 2024

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A garden shed isn’t just for storage; it can be a versatile addition that enhances your garden’s functionality and appeal. Whether you need extra storage, a workshop, or a cozy retreat, choosing the right shed involves thoughtful planning. Here’s a concise guide to help you make the right choice.

  • Define the Shed's Purpose

    Start by determining what you’ll use the shed for. Will it store gardening tools, serve as a workshop, or be a playhouse for the kids? The purpose will dictate the shed’s size, style, and features, such as shelving for storage or windows and electrical outlets for a workspace.

  • Assess Size and Space

    Measure the space in your garden where the shed will go, leaving room for access and maintenance. Consider what you’ll store in the shed, ensuring it’s large enough to accommodate everything comfortably.

  • Match the Design to Your Home

    Choose a shed design that complements your home’s architecture and garden. Whether traditional or modern, your shed can be a stylish addition to your outdoor space with features like windows, shutters, or flower boxes.

  • Prioritize Security

    If you’re storing valuable items, ensure the shed has sturdy doors, secure locks, and lockable windows. Consider additional security measures like alarms or motion-activated lights.

  •  Plan the Foundation

    A solid foundation is crucial for the shed’s longevity. Options include concrete slabs, gravel bases, or pressure-treated wooden beams, depending on the shed’s size and weight.

  • Consider Ventilation and Lighting

    Proper ventilation prevents moisture buildup, reducing the risk of mold and mildew. Consider windows or vents for airflow, and think about natural lighting if the shed will be used as a workspace. Solar-powered lights are a practical, energy-efficient option for after dark.

  •  Budget Wisely

    Balance your budget with quality. While a cheaper shed might save money upfront, it may require more maintenance over time. Consider long-term costs when choosing materials and features.

  •  Plan for Future Needs

    Think ahead. Choose a slightly larger shed to accommodate future storage needs or potential upgrades like electricity or insulation. It’s better to have extra space than to outgrow your shed too quickly.

 Choose the Right Material:

Wood:

Pressure - Treated Wood - Wood that has been chemically treated to resist rot, decay, and insect damage. This is commonly used for the framing and floor joists of sheds.

Cedar -  is a naturally durable and rot-resistant wood with a distinct, pleasant smell. It's often used for siding, roofing, and trim on sheds.

Redwood - another naturally durable wood, similar to cedar, but often considered superior in terms of rot resistance and longevity.

Pine - Pine is a softwood that is commonly used in the construction of sheds, especially for framing and trim.

Douglas Fir - a strong, durable wood often used for framing and structural elements of sheds.

Spruce - a lightweight and affordable softwood often used for framing and sheathing in shed construction.

Engineered Wood (Plywood, OSB) - Engineered wood products like plywood or oriented strand board (OSB) are often used for the walls, flooring, and roof sheathing of sheds.

Hardwoods (Oak, Maple, Mahogany) - Hardwoods like oak, maple, and mahogany are less common but can be used for high-end or decorative elements in a shed.

Metal: 

Galvanised Steel - Galvanised steel is steel that has been coated with a layer of zinc to protect it from corrosion. This is one of the most common metals used in shed construction.

Aluminium - a lightweight, non-ferrous metal that doesn’t rust, making it an excellent choice for shed construction, especially in coastal areas.

Stainless Steel - a steel alloy that contains chromium, which gives it excellent resistance to rust and corrosion. It's often used for high-end shed construction.

Corrugated Steel - Corrugated sheets are commonly used for shed roofs and walls. The corrugation (wave-like pattern) increases the strength and rigidity of the sheets.

Zincalume (Galvalume) Steel - also known as Galvalume, is steel coated with a mixture of zinc and aluminium, offering enhanced corrosion resistance compared to galvanised steel.

Corten Steel (Weathering Steel) - a type of steel that forms a stable rust-like appearance after exposure to weather, which actually protects the metal from further corrosion.

Plastic/Resin: 

High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE) - a type of thermoplastic made from petroleum. It's known for its high strength-to-density ratio, making it a popular choice for outdoor sheds.

Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) - a versatile plastic widely used in construction, including shed panels and trim. It can be made rigid or flexible depending on the application.

Polypropylene (PP) - a thermoplastic polymer used in a variety of applications, including shed walls and roofs. It’s known for its resistance to chemical degradation.

Resin (Polypropylene Resin, Polyethylene Resin) - Resin sheds are made from moulded plastic resin, typically polypropylene or polyethylene, and are designed to mimic the appearance of wood or metal.

Fibre-Reinforced Plastic (FRP) - a composite material made of a polymer matrix reinforced with fibres, such as glass fibres. It's used in construction where high strength and durability are required

By considering these factors, you’ll find a shed that not only meets your current needs but also enhances your garden for years to come.

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