Discover How to Choose a Shed for Your Garden
Most garden owners will agree that managing their outdoor space is a surprisingly complex endeavour. From selecting the right type of furniture, to picking plants that can withstand the local climate, there are many small details that need to be taken into consideration.
And when you’re ready to take the plunge into garden storage, there’s yet another set of criteria that you need to pay close attention to. Having a convenient shed you can use for your tools or as bike storage is a great way to look after your garden, but it can be overwhelming to make a decision with so many options on the market.
How Do You Choose a Shed for Your Garden?
Naturally, each garden shed will differ depending on the purpose it’s supposed to serve. But, there are a few fundamental factors that put every shed in a certain category and draw clear lines between them.
Size and Available Space
When it comes to garden storage, size matters. You’ll need something that doesn’t take up too much room in your yard but is large enough to store all your gardening tools and other items. Make sure to take precise measurements of the space you’re looking to convert into a shed and check if available models fit within it.
For smaller areas, a compact 3×3 meter shed is normally the most suitable option. It’s not overbearing or imposing, and it still offers plenty of room for your essentials and more. On the other hand, for more sizeable gardens and yards, a 6×6 meter shed is ideal as it provides plenty of storage space without taking up too much real estate.
Whether you decide to go for a 3×3 meter shed or something larger, make sure to leave a few metres of free space around it. This will not only make your gardening experience more enjoyable but also help with maintenance and improve ventilation within the shed itself.
Material and Finish
The material you choose will be one of the largest contributors to the overall look and feel of your unit. Wooden sheds are the traditional option as they blend in perfectly with the natural environment. Their golden colour and grain patterns also add an extra layer of charm to an already aesthetically pleasing design.
However, if you’re looking for something that can withstand harsher weather conditions and is easier to maintain, then a metal shed is probably the right choice. Most models are designed with galvanised steel and coated in powder paint to ensure protection from rust and deterioration.
Finally, a plastic model is a great middle-ground between the wooden and metal designs. It’s lightweight, waterproof and comes in multiple colour combinations to match your existing setup.
Cladding
Both 3×3 meter sheds and their larger counterparts come with different types of cladding. This refers to the outer layer of your unit which is responsible for providing protection from weather and other external factors.
Wooden models are generally covered in tongue and groove timber planks, which gives them an aesthetically pleasing finish. On the other hand, metal units are typically equipped with corrugated steel sheets to provide extra durability and corrosion resistance.
Overlap cladding is also available for both types of sheds and is a great choice for gardeners who don’t want to spend too much time on maintenance. It features individual panels that overlap each other, creating a dense barrier against the elements.
Roof and Floor Design
The way your shed is designed can drastically change its purpose and utility. Roofs and floors act as the framework for each model and need to be designed accordingly.
The roof in particular can have an apex, pent or reverse apex design depending on what you need. An apex roof allows for better ventilation, while a pent roof is more suitable for areas with high levels of precipitation.
When it comes to flooring, a plastic base is normally the most practical option as it’s easy to clean and resistant to weather damage. However, wooden floors provide more support and stability when storing heavier items.
Door and Window Configuration
The door is the main point of access to your shed, so it needs to be designed right. The more common models feature a single side-hinged unit with a handle and a lock for added security. For larger sheds, double-hinged doors are available in addition to the single option, with the added benefit of a wider opening.
Windows are also an important feature, as they allow for ventilation and natural light to enter the unit. Some sheds come with standard windows, while others have more sophisticated designs with adjustable panes.
Installation and Maintenance
The installation process for a shed will depend on its size, material, and complexity. Smaller models usually don’t require any special tools or knowledge and can be put together in a few hours. Larger units, on the other hand, might need the help of a professional and come with more detailed instructions.
Once the shed is up and running, it’s important to keep it clean and dry at all times. This will help avoid the deterioration of the material and make sure your items remain safe from external agents. Depending on the unit, you might need to perform some basic maintenance tasks on a regular basis, such as oiling hinges and screws or repainting wood.