There are a wide-range of backyard storage sheds on the market, whether online or at your local retailer. Which kits are the best outdoor storage sheds worth buying — AND will still look great in 5 or 10 years. Even if you don’t choose one of these top sellers, based on high customer ratings, I guarantee you’ll learn something.
There’s something here for everyone — from small garden sheds to large, expansive storage sheds. What are you looking for today?
Table of Contents...
- 1 Intro — Best Outdoor Storage Sheds
- 1.1 Consider these Points Before Buying Your Storage Shed?
- 1.2 Review: Lifetime 6446 — 8′ x 15′
- 1.3 Suncast BMS4700
- 1.4 Keter Factor
- 1.5 Keter Fusion | Outdoor Storage Sheds – **DISCONTINUED
- 1.6 Keter Manor | Outdoor Storage Sheds
- 1.7 More about outdoor storage sheds
- 1.8 Steel Outdoor Storage Sheds
- 1.9 Resin Outdoor Sheds
- 1.10 Composite Materials
- 1.11 Related posts:
Intro — Best Outdoor Storage Sheds
We all start off storing our outdoor equipment and all sorts of other stuff in the garage. It doesn’t take long before it is filled to the rafters, leaving no room for your car. Sound familiar? Well, it’s probably time to invest in an outdoor storage shed. This is the best storage solution for homeowners.
These versatile structures come in a variety and sizes that will meet your needs and fit into the look of your yard. Choosing the best outdoor storage shed for your needs may seem difficult at first. They are made from all sorts of materials and some are better than others – your climate may be an important deciding factor as to which outdoor storage shed is going to be your best option. You may be concerned about the construction process if you’ve never owned an outdoor storage shed before. There’s no need to worry, this article is going equip you with the knowledge to make the best decision on all matters concerning outdoor storage sheds.
Rubbermaid 2145548 — 7′ x 7-feet / Best Outdoor Resin Storage Shed
I’ll start by giving you your options in the form of a review of the best outdoor storage sheds. Knowing what’s available and having a shortlist of products that come highly recommended is a good place to start. After reviewing the best outdoor storage sheds, I’ll move on to a buyer’s guide. I’ll attempt to answer all the questions you may have and provide some valuable advice that can make the whole process a whole lot easier and stress-free.
Consider these Points Before Buying Your Storage Shed?
When embarking on the journey of purchasing a backyard storage shed, it is imperative to approach the task with a methodical mindset. The first step in this process is to determine the intended use of the shed. Will it primarily serve as a repository for outdoor equipment such as lawnmowers and bicycles? Or will it function as a workshop or studio space? This initial determination will greatly influence the options available to you in terms of size and features.
Once the intended use has been established, it is important to consider the spatial requirements of the shed. The dimensions of the shed itself, as well as the amount of space required for maneuvering around the shed, should be taken into account. It is also crucial to ensure that the shed complies with any local zoning or building regulations, so as to avoid any potential issues in the future.
When it comes to features, there are a plethora of options available. Skylights, for example, can provide natural lighting, while steel reinforcement offers added durability. Ventilation is also an important factor to consider, as it will aid in preventing the buildup of mold and mildew. Additional features such as built-in shelving, workbenches, and even electricity can greatly enhance the functionality of the shed.
It’s important the model you buy has detailed instructions. Most reputable brands will have full videos walking you through the entire assembly process. Lifetime is one of the premier brands with excellent instruction videos. Here we have an example of their 6446, 15′ x 8-feet backyard shed.
VIDEO: See What You’ll be getting yourself into before you buy / Lifetime 6446
The materials used in the construction of the shed are also of great importance. Wooden sheds, for example, offer a natural aesthetic and can blend seamlessly into their surroundings. However, they do require regular maintenance such as staining or painting to protect against the elements. Vinyl and metal sheds, on the other hand, are relatively low maintenance and offer increased durability. Resin sheds are the most popular material as they don’t fade, rot or rust. The quality resin models are reinforced with steel for extra strength.
The bigger the shed, the more steel reinforcing will be included in the design.
The cost of a backyard storage shed can vary greatly, and it is important to take into account your budget when making a decision. Cheaper options, often made of flimsy materials and lacking in features, can be found for as little as a few hundred dollars. High quality, well-constructed sheds made of sturdy materials and equipped with a plethora of features can easily run into the thousands.
Purchasing a backyard storage shed is an important decision because you’re going to be putting it together, and it will take up a large portion of your yard. If you don’t like the way it looks it might bother you. If it’s not big enough, the last thing you’ll want to do is take it apart and send it back. In fact, it’s always better to get more storage space than not enough. You can never have too much space, and you’ll grow into it, so get the bigger size to avoid regrets.
By considering the intended use, spatial requirements, desired features, and budget, one can make an informed decision that will provide many years of practical use and will likely increase the value of your home — if you do it right. The options I’ve selected are diverse but it’s up to you to choose the right one that will suit your needs.
Keter Artisan (9’x7′): Best Stylish Outdoor Storage Shed
Key Features:
- The Keter Artisan is a 9’x7-feet backyard storage shed with a capacity of 390.2 cubic feet
- Constructed from durable polypropylene resin and steel reinforcement, this shed is built to last and withstand the elements, and will not peel, rot or rust over time and maintenance-free.
- Designed to be weather-resistant, waterproof, and UV protected, ensuring that your stored items remain safe and dry
- Featuring clear windows that give you a lot of natural light
- Built-in ventilation provides fresh air circulation, eliminating damp and musty smells commonly associated with traditional sheds
- Duotech walls are paintable and drillable, allowing for customization to meet your specific needs
- A perfect blend of modern design and practical space, designed for longevity
- Product weight 363.756 lbs, All-weather resistant, smooth-grained look & feel of real wood without the maintenance of real wood
- Size — Exterior: 109 in. W x 85. 8 in. D x 89 in. H / Interior: 103. 9 in. W x 79 in. D x 86. 5 in. H
- Double-walled construction & steel reinforcements provide superior strength & durability, easy to modify allowing you to create a truly personalized space. Paint, cut, drill, & hang on it.
- Assembly time: 4.5 hours with 2 people required, lockable double doors provide added peace of mind and security for your stored belongings
OVERVIEW : Keter 237828
Introducing the Keter Artisan 9’x7′ backyard storage shed, a revolutionary product that is sure to exceed your expectations. This shed boasts a storage capacity of 390.2 cubic feet, making it the perfect solution for those in need of ample storage space. The modern design and feel of this shed are sure to complement any backyard.
One of the key features of this shed is its durability. Made from polypropylene resin and steel reinforcement, this shed is built to last and withstand the elements. It’s also weather-resistant, waterproof, and UV protected, ensuring that your stored items remain safe and dry. The natural look and feel of the shed are a big plus, it is a perfect blend of modern design and ruggedness.
VIDEO: See how to build the Keter Artisan Shed, one step at a time
The shed also features crystal clear windows that allow for natural light, and built-in ventilation for fresh air circulation, eliminating the damp and musty smell often associated with traditional sheds. The unique Duotech walls are easily paintable and drillable, allowing for customization to meet your specific needs. And the lockable double doors provide added peace of mind and security for your stored belongings.
In terms of assembly, customers have reported that it took about 4 to 5 hours to complete and it required two people. The instructions provided were clear and easy to follow, but some customers had encountered minor issues such as missing screws and insulation tape. Look, it happens even with the best products. I recommend checking that you received all the necessary parts before you begin assembling it.
Overall, customers have been highly satisfied with the Keter Artisan 9’x7′ backyard storage shed. They have praised its modern design, ample storage space, durability, and weather resistance. Some customers have mentioned that the price point is a bit higher, but they feel it is worth the expense for the quality and features provided. The ability to customize the shed according to one’s needs has been a big plus for many. Some had minor issues with assembly but overall the assembly process was relatively straightforward.
If want an attractive high-quality, durable, and customizable storage solution for your backyard, the Keter Artisan 9’x7′ shed is an fantastic choice. The stylish modern design, combined with the durable materials and functionality, make this shed an excellent investment. I highly recommend this product to anyone in need of a backyard storage shed that will make your neighbors jealous.
Review: Lifetime 6446 — 8′ x 15′
Best outdoor storage shed if you want a beautiful space, complete with shutters, Windows, and Skylights. Steel-Reinforced design makes this an excellent storage space that will endure for many years to come.
Additional shed sizes from Lifetime you might be interested in:
- Lifetime 60057 — 7 ft. x 4.5 ft.
- Lifetime 60075 — 8 ft. x 15 ft.
- Lifetime 6402 — 8 ft. x 12.5 ft.
- Lifetime 6406 — 8 ft. x 5 ft.
Features:
- Sturdy Steel-Reinforced Construction
- Attractive Appearance and Design
- Dual-Wall High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE) Construction
- Heavy-Duty Steel Trusses Provide Additional Roof Strength
- Low Maintenance Design
- UV Protected to Prevent Weather Damage
- High-Pitched Roof Allows for Quick Drainage of Rain and Snow
- Lockable Steel-Reinforced Doors for Added Security
- Slip-Resistant High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE) Floor Protects Against Oil, Solvents, & Stains
- Customizable Shelving and Storage System
✓ View or download the ASSEMBLY INSTRUCTIONS for the Lifetime 6446 shed.
Overview
Easily the king of outdoor storage sheds, the 8 x 15 foot Lifetime shed is about as big as it gets when looking at this type of prefabricated shed kits. It shares many of the great design features that you’ll find on the Suncast Tremont range and a bit more. It’s just as elegant and is constructed from similar high-grade materials. A wonderfully practical and good-looking outdoor storage shed.
VIDEO | Watch this to get a better idea of the space
This shed has dual, metal reinforced polyethylene (HDPE) walls. This is an incredibly durable resin product that requires absolutely no maintenance. The floor is made from the same material and is non-slip, as well as being resistant to chemicals, oil and other harmful products that you’re likely to be storing in your shed.
The shingle-style roof is great and just as durable as the rest of the structure, constructed using the same dual polyethylene method. The steep 6:12 roof, supported by steel A-frame trusses, is as strong as it gets and will handle heavy snow, rain and wind without a problem. Two windows at the front let in plenty of light, but this obviously means that you can’t use that wall space without blocking the natural light.
High-Quality Interior Provides Strength & Flexibility : Lifetime 6446
They’re at a conventional height, I’d have preferred to see these windows higher – that would allow one to utilize the space better, without obscuring the windows. Though this isn’t a big issue because it also has six small skylights that allow extra light to come streaming in from above. The windows are made of a shatterproof polycarbonate material, so you can be sure they won’t break under the tough working conditions that one associates with an outdoor storage shed. Each window has two decorative shutters that help give the shed a more attractive look. Two opposing air vents at the top of each gable provide excellent air flow and help keep the shed cool in summer.
The double doors at the front center of the shed are fantastically practical and give you great access. With a width of 4’8” and a height of 6’4”, you won’t have any hassles getting large items in or out of the shed. The door handles are also super tough and it has a strong padlock loop. The doors are supported by full-length galvanized hinge pins, so they’re going to take a few knocks and remain in good condition for many years. All the steel components are powder coated for added durability. In a nut shell, this outdoor storage shed is built about as tough as is humanly possible and won’t deteriorate over time.
The interior is just as tough and is wonderfully practical. Slots in the walls make it quick and easy to install shelf kits or any of the other neat storage solutions that they offer as optional extras. The kit includes two 90” by 9” shelves and four corner “D” shelves.
In my opinion, the Lifetime 6446 is about the best outdoor storage shed that money can buy. It’s huge, super tough and wonderfully practical. This product comes with a 10-year limited warranty and is going to serve you well for a long time. The brand name is quite justified, it’s likely to last you a lifetime.
Suncast BMS4700
The Stow-Away Horizontal Storage Shed.
And if you want a smaller shed, here’s one of the best small garden sheds that’s best suited for storing lawn and garden supplies, golf clubs, garbage cans, tools, bicycles, patio cushions and more.
Features:
- Large enough to hold two 96-gallon garbage containers
- Low-profile design is ideal for placement on the side of a house, patio, or under a fence line
- Gas shocks make it easy to open lid and keep it open
- Padlock-ready, 3-door locking system (lock not included)
- Ramp for easy wheeling in and out
- Steel-reinforced, double-wall construction for added stability
- Exterior Dimensions: 5 ft. 10-1/2 in. W x 3 ft. 8-1/4 in. D x 4 ft. 4 in. H;
- Interior Dimensions: 5 ft. 5-1/2 in. W x 3 ft. 2-1/2 in. D x 4 ft. 1-1/2 in.
✓ View or download the ASSEMBLY INSTRUCTIONS and the SPEC SHEET for the Suncast BMS4700.
Keter Factor
Some of these Keter sheds have been discontinued, so I invite you to visit the Keter store on Amazon to see their latest outdoor sheds for 2023. This is one of the most popular brands. They have many attractive models which look more natural than other brands.
Made with weather-resistant resin with steel reinforcement. This is a wonderful series of outdoor storage sheds with a nice range of sizes to choose from. Best outdoor storage sheds with a nice balance between price, quality and durability.
We discuss the following 4 shed sizes in this series:
- Keter Factor 213139 — 4 ft. x 6 ft. (23.4 sq.ft.) / 140 lbs.
- Keter Factor 213040 — 6 ft. x 3 ft. (21.sq.ft.) / 154 lbs.
- Keter Factor 213039 — 8 ft. x 6 ft. (47.5 sq.ft) / 235 lbs.
- Keter Factor 211203 — 8 ft. x 11 ft. (87 sq.ft) / 400 lbs.
Common Features:
- Sturdy and weather-resistant build makes this a low maintenance shed that won’t rust, peel, rot or decay.
- Made from polypropylene resin plastic
- Designed with steel reinforcement to ensure it will endure over the years
- Window and skylight provide plenty of natural light while ventilation provides added safety. (some models)
- Heavy-duty floor, spacious design and double doors make it easy to store even large items.
- High enough ceiling for an adult to easily enter and move around.
- Easy to assembly with just common household tools.
- Made out of a durable, weather-resistant resin with steel reinforcement
- Attractive wood-like texture
- Heavy-duty floor panel Double doors (except for 4’x6′ model)
- Ventilated
- Shelf support included
- Lockable
- 10-year limited warranty
Overview
The Keter Factor range of garden storage sheds comprise a great selection of sizes. You can be sure to find one that will work for you. The largest in the range (8’ X 11’) doesn’t quite compare to the enormous Lifetime 6446 in size and it doesn’t have all the great design features. It is, however, cheaper and is made from similar materials. It is as durable as any of the best outdoor storage sheds. You’re not really losing out on too much if you decide on this cheaper option.
8’x 6′ Shed : Keter Factor 213039
Like the other two storage sheds that we’ve reviewed thus far, this range is also constructed from steel reinforced resin. The exterior walls have a wood grain finish which looks quite attractive and suits the classic design of the shed. From my observation these sheds aren’t as well insulated as the more expensive options and the interior doesn’t have the same easy to fit shelving and storage options. Though this isn’t a big sacrifice to make if you’re looking for a durable outdoor storage shed that doesn’t cost too much.
You get two storage shelves for the two larger versions in the range (8’ X 6’ and 8’ X 11’). I guess the smaller units aren’t really big enough to practically accommodate these shelves. The two larger units have double doors, offering adequate access for a lawnmower and other large garden equipment. Again, the smaller units aren’t big enough to accommodate the double doors but the single doors on these units are wider than the average door, offering the best access for the width of the shed. These doors seem to be as sturdy and well-constructed as the best of them. They are lockable, but the lock is not included in the price.
Keter Factor 211203 — 8 ft. x 11 ft. (87 sq.ft) / 400 lbs.
It has reasonably sized windows that don’t take up too much wall space. In addition to this, there is a large skylight that runs along the apex of the roof, offering a good deal of extra light. Good ventilation is supplied by vents that are situated the highest point of the roof.
If we’re going to compare the Factor range from Keter to the best outdoor storage sheds available, they seem somewhat lacking. But if we look at this realistically and compare them to similarly priced items, these sheds come up tops. What this boils down to is that the Factor range can be seen as the best outdoor storage sheds for their price. Despite being cheaper than many others, the Factor range carries a 10-year limited warranty, so it has the quality standard to match any of the best.
Learn more about the Keter brand by visiting their site.
Keter Fusion | Outdoor Storage Sheds – **DISCONTINUED
Wood and Plastic Composite shed. Best outdoor storage shed if you don’t want to compromise on style. Absolutely beautiful shed that will make your neighbors jealous.
A variety of sizes are available:
- Keter Fusion 754 (219883) — 7.5 ft. x 4 ft. (157 cu.ft)
- Keter Fusion 757 (219882) — 7.5 ft. x 7 ft. (310 cu.ft.)
- Keter Fusion 759 (219882) — 7.5 ft. x 9 ft. (411 cu.ft. )
Engineered to withstand extreme weather conditions. Tile roof is reinforced with steel to handle the weight of heavy, wet snow. Its heavy-duty materials stand up to rain and strong winds. Sorry, it won’t withstand lava 😉
- Maximum Roof Load : 20 lbs./ sq. ft.
- Maximum Wind Resistance : 65 mph
VIDEO | See how easy it is to Assemble
Common Features:
- Unique shed combines the naturally beautiful appearance and texture of wood with the durability of weather-resistant resin.
- Maintenance-free as it resists rust, rot, decay and other damage from the elements.
- Heavy-duty floor and spacious build make it suitable for storing even large, heavy items, while drillable walls make it easy to install shelving or hang items.
- Ceiling is high enough for an adult to move about easily inside
- Thick double-wall wood-plastic-composite structure
- Resin doors and roof with steel bar reinforcements
- Easy to assemble: pre-cut tongue and groove panels
- Drillable walls provide flexible mounting options: hangers, racks, slot walls and pegboards (not included)
- Stainless steel locking system for extra security (lock not included)
- Full-length skylight, long side window and door windows for natural light (larger models)
- Front, back and side vents for ample airflow
- Heavy duty resin floor can handle more than 300 PSI
- Eco-friendly: use of recycled materials from the plastics and wood industries.
- Easy to assemble with pre-cut tongue and groove panels.
- Thick double-wall structure
- Made from a unique wood-plastic composite
- Steel-reinforced tile roof
- 12-year limited warranty
Overview
The Fusion range from Keter comprises their premier outdoor storage sheds. They’re more expensive than the Factor range from the same brand, but this range delivers on the extra price. If you don’t need the largest available outdoor storage shed, this range could be your best choice. The largest in the range measures 7.5’ X 9’ which is by no means small, but doesn’t quite compare to some of the other large sheds. You’ll still be able to fit a tractor mower into the largest in this range.
Keter Fusion 759 : 7′ x 9′ Storage Shed
There are quite a few factors that distinguish this range of outdoor sheds as being unique – both in the materials used and the design. The fusion range is made from a wood plastic composite. This is probably the best material to use when constructing an outdoor storage shed. You have all the benefits of a resin polymer which means no maintenance for life and the all the benefits of wood. So it looks great, is more solid, and is better insulated than any other plastic resin or metal shed.
The composite wood and plastic offers you best of all worlds. The double wall construction is perfectly ridged with an excellent reinforcing. These panels slot together by means expertly machined tongue and grooves. This offers a perfectly watertight, insulated wall combined with an incredibly easy installation process. These walls are also drillable, so you can fix anything to the shed, anywhere you choose.
Keter Fusion 757 (219882) — 7.5 ft. x 7.3 ft.
The roof is one of the strongest around with a 20 pound per square foot (PSF) weight bearing capacity. Most others are around 15 PSF. So the Fusion sheds are the best if you experience heavy snow in winter. The roof is very attractive with genuine-looking shingles. As with the rest of the shed construction, this roof is made to last and won’t require any maintenance.
A design feature that I find to be wonderfully practical and well thought out are the windows. These are narrow strips that run along the length of the walls. Combined with the very effective skylights, these windows offer the best lighting without sacrificing usable wall space. I don’t know why all shed manufacturers don’t take this route – it’s the most practical.
VIDEO | Beautiful Outdoor Storage Sheds
If you’re prepared to spend more for the best in terms of quality and build integrity, you really can’t beat the Keter Fusion range. With their stunning good looks and zero maintenance, you won’t be disappointed. What’s even more impressive about these sheds is that you get a 12-year limited warranty which better than any of the others.
Keter Manor | Outdoor Storage Sheds
- Keter Manor 4x6S (212917) — 4 ft. x 6 ft. / 133.2 cu. ft
- ✓ View or download the ASSEMBLY INSTRUCTIONS (4’x6′)
- Keter Manor 6x8DD : (213413) — 6 ft. x 8 ft. / 267.4 cu. ft.
- ✓ View or download the ASSEMBLY INSTRUCTIONS (6’x8′)
The Ceiling in the Keter Manor is high enough for an adult to move around easily when inside.
Keter does an excellent job of engineering outdoor storage sheds for the real world; built to withstand wind, snow and rain. There’s no point in investing in a shed that will fall apart as soon as a wind storm arrives. Luckily, these Keter Manor sheds can handle the elements:
- Maximum Roof Load : 15 lbs. / sq. ft.
- Maximum Wind Resistance : 55 mph
Features:
- Suitable for all weather conditions and will not peel, rust, rot or decay.
- Sturdy build makes this shed ideal for storing a wide variety of items.
- Floor panel keeps items off the ground to help keep them clean and dry.
- Window provides natural light while ventilation provides added safety.
- Roof supports more than 15 lbs/sq.ft. of snow
- High enough ceiling for an adult to move around in with ease.
- Easy to assemble.
- built-in window and skylight
- Weather-resistant, double wall construction
- Double doors
- Floor panel
- Ventilation
- Fixed window
- High ceiling
- Lockable
Overview
The Keter Manor series come in a wide variety of sizes, the biggest being a 6’ X 8’ variant followed by the 4’ X 6’. Smaller sizes are also available. This is a basic, no frills outdoor storage shed. They look really great with a wood grain finish in a variety of colors. Among the outdoor storage sheds that we’ve reviewed here, the Manor is the cheapest. Despite this, it’s made from high-quality materials and is a very durable item.
These sheds have double walls made from recyclable polypropylene. It, therefore, has the strength and durability to hold its own among any of the best outdoor storage sheds. There are metal components that are exposed to the elements. Though these have a very durable coating and won’t require much maintenance over the years. It has a good roof that will withstand all weather conditions and a small window.
One of the sacrifices that you’ll have to make if choosing this cheaper option is that it doesn’t have a skylight and you don’t get any shelves with the kit. The double doors on the two larger units offer plenty of space to get anything in or out. The exposed barn door type hinges will probably require some paint as the years go by to prevent rust, but work well and the doors are sturdy.
For the most part, these sheds hold up well under scrutiny but they are not without their issues. For one thing, they take quite a bit more effort to erect than the other more expensive kits. Another area where they might not be the best is in the floor that doesn’t hold as much weight as the others. A concrete slab could help, especially if you plan to store heavy items, like a tractor mower in the shed.
While this shed may require a bit more maintenance than some others and is not quite as strong, it’s going to last well. A touch of paint on a few small areas every few years is worth it if you don’t want to spend too much. The price is exceptionally low, yet it has a 10-year limited warranty – the same as sheds that cost a lot more.
More about outdoor storage sheds
Having reviewed the best outdoor sheds available, it’s time to decide which is the one for you. This section of the article is going to look at outdoor storage sheds in greater detail. I’ll be providing a buyer’s guide that should help you make a more informed decision as to what type of outdoor shed is going to be your best bet.
Materials
The materials used in the construction of your shed is one of the most important things to look at. Your outdoor storage shed is going to be with you for a long time and you want it to hold up to the elements without spending too much time and money on maintenance. This is even more important if you live in an area that receives heavy rain or snow. Though sunlight also affects some materials.
Wooden Outdoor sheds
Whilst being aesthetically pleasing, a wooden shed isn’t always the best choice. Quality wood that’s going withstand years of sun, rain and snow is expensive. It’s also heavy and these sheds aren’t the easiest to construct.
Generally, the more affordable wooden storage sheds will require regular maintenance – you’ll have to seal the wood to prevent rot. If the sealer starts to peel off, your task becomes even harder, as this will require hours of sanding to remove flaking sealant. Wood, especially softwood, is known to be susceptible to insects that bore into the wood. So this is also something that needs attention.
One of the benefits of wood is that you can drill into it and secure shelves or anything else with wood screws. Wood is also an excellent insulator, so your shed will remain cooler in summer and warmer in winter. Though plastic or polymer double wall designs work just as well in most climates.
If you prefer the look of natural wood, be prepared to pay extra for this. Buying a cheap wooden outdoor storage shed is more hassle than it’s worth.
Steel Outdoor Storage Sheds
As far as buying on a budget goes, steel sheds are the best. They’re cheap and steel will last forever, as long as you keep it painted. So with the correct maintenance, steel sheds offer excellent value for money.
Though their price is the only thing that steel sheds have going for them. They really don’t look that great. This is fine if you have a large yard and can keep the shed hidden from sight, unless you’re into the industrial look. On a practical level, steel isn’t that great either. They bake in the sun and freeze in the cold. This can be a problem when storing paint and chemicals in a shed, they need to be stored at the correct temperature.
Attaching shelves and hooks or any type fixtures to a steel shed isn’t the best. They don’t have the modular design that you get with molded plastics, so the only way for you to attach anything to the walls is by drilling through them and using nuts and bolts. The walls will end up having numerous holes in them and you have bolts that are exposed on the outside of the wall. All of this is going to increase your long-term maintenance tasks.
In the end, steel is the cheapest way to go. But it’s not the best material for an outdoor storage shed.
Resin Outdoor Sheds
There are many polymers that are used to construct sheds, these are usually referred to as plastic or resin sheds. Not all plastic sheds hold up to sunlight all that well, but most of the best outdoor sheds that use plastic are made from polypropylene or something similar. These materials are incredibly durable. They are pigmented and keep their color for years without too much fading.
Generally, these sheds will require absolutely no maintenance. Some may have steel frames that are exposed and will need some paint occasionally. Though this is usually a very small area and doesn’t require much work.
Resin storage sheds are the best value for money as they offer a lifetime of maintenance-free use. Though one must look carefully at the design. Double wall resin sheds are the best, and should be used with steel reinforcing. They make for a very strong, rigid structure and are well-insulated for both hot and cold climates.
This material can be molded into any shape or form, so the shed can have an attractive appearance without any extra cost. It’s also a very lightweight material and these sheds are generally easy to erect.
The only issue with resin sheds is that you can’t drill into the walls to mount shelves and other storage solutions. Most of the best resin storage sheds are designed with molded grooves in the interior walls. These grooves are often universal, meaning that you can get a variety of storage solutions that fit into the grooves very easily. Recognized shed manufacturers usually supply a great variety of very practical storage solutions that can be easily slotted into the shed interior.
For its price, functionality and practicality, resin is the preferred material for most modern outdoor storage sheds.
Composite Materials
Composite building materials are the latest and greatest way to prefabricate anything from cladding, doors, windows, walls, roof shingles, and kitchen counters. The process involves taking natural materials like rock or wood and blending them with a resin which can be molded into any shape.
Composite outdoor storage sheds make use of fine wood chips and high-quality resin. This provides the best material for shed construction. The end result is a solid and durable shed that has the benefits of both wood and plastic. This means no maintenance, the best insulation and excellent resilience against rain, snow and harsh sun.
Wood composite can be drilled like conventional wood. So you can use screws and any other type of fastener like you would with solid wood. In fact, it’s harder than any wood and won’t split or crack when you use fasteners. Wood composite is a better building material than natural wood and looks just as good.
Like regular plastic walls, the composite panels are made easy to construct. Panels can be molded in such a way that they slot together for a perfect, permanent seal. It’s always best to use a double wall construction as this provides better insulation and structural integrity. Steel reinforcing is not necessary when constructing an outdoor storage shed from a wood composite as this material is incredibly strong.
This is the best material for shed construction and will cost more. Though this is money well spent. You’ll have a great looking, ultra-strong shed that’s likely to last a lifetime. All this with no maintenance issues.
How long does it take to build an outdoor storage shed?
The answer to this question will depend on your technical skill, the amount of people doing the job, and the type of shed you’re building. If you’re going the DIY route this is going to take several days. Outdoor storage sheds that come in modular kits are relatively easy to build and don’t take up too much of your time. It’s possible to get the job done in a single day. If you’re going to be laying a concrete floor, this needs to be done well in advance. More about concrete floors later.
Outdoor storage sheds vary and some may take longer than others to assemble. Though most modular kits made from resin and composite are quite quick and easy to erect. A larger shed will obviously take longer to build than a small one. For a small shed, you should easily get the job done in about 4-6 hours with two people and a reasonable skill level. A large shed should take around 9-hours but make provision for the fact that this might not all happen in a single day. You never know what might happen. You don’t need to be a building genius to assemble an outdoor storage shed that comes in kit form. Everything you need is supplied and they come with detailed instructions.
The first stage of building your shed is usually quite easy. The floor and walls slot together quickly and there isn’t much detail involved. Fitting doors and windows probably takes the most time if you consider that these are only a small area of the shed. There are a lot more parts involved when fitting doors and windows. Likewise, the roof also requires more detailed work and involves quite a number of parts. When planning your job take this into account and set aside adequate time to complete the shed properly.
What type of foundation does an outdoor storage shed require?
Smaller sheds (8’ X 6’ or less) don’t require a foundation. You can use crushed stone or treated wood chips to form a drainage base and rest a small shed on this. For any shed larger than 8’ X 6’, a solid foundation (either wood or concrete) is necessary. It’s a good idea to consult your local building inspector before constructing your shed, this way you know you’re doing things according to spec.
Concrete Foundations
If you’re going to be erecting a large shed, a concrete slab foundation may take longer. It needs to cure before you can begin work. However, concrete is going to be the best in long run, it’s going to remain perfect forever, if done correctly. Your concrete foundation needs to match the width and length of your shed allow for 2-3 inches more than the actual size of the shed. It also needs to be perfectly square – within ¼”. The concrete foundation has to be level and have no low areas where water pools can form. The slab should be at least 4” above the ground level. You may want to consider building a ramp for the doorway, this makes it easier to wheel items in and out of the shed.
In hurricane areas, one should cast anchor bolts (J-type) to secure the shed to the foundation. The J-bolts should be placed about 1½” from the edge of the slab, protruding approximately 2½” above the slab surface. Your shed kit should include anchor pins, and these should be used no matter where you live.
If you’ve never built with concrete before, get professional help. You need to use the correct ratio of sand, aggregate, and cement for the type of concrete you require. This will depend on the thickness of the slab and required strength. If concrete is not correctly formulated and cured, it will not be up to standard and is likely to crack. So make sure you get it right the first time around.
Wooden Foundations
A wooden foundation is going to save time but may need attention over time. Like with a concrete foundation, if you’ve never constructed one before, get some experienced help.
You’ll start by placing concrete leveling blocks. The recommendation is to use 8 X 16 blocks up to a maximum of 2” in height. For a large 11’ X 15’ outdoor storage shed, you’ll need 20 concrete blocks. These to need to spaced evenly along the length and width of the shed. Alternatively, you can use pressure treated lumber to support the wooden frame that supports the floor. You’ll then construct a frame to support the shed floor in the same as you would for a regular wooden floor.
