But sheds come in all shapes and sizes, so it can be difficult to know which one to buy. To help you find the perfect one, here are some key considerations to think about.
Size
The first thing to think about is the size. To work out the perfect size, you need to consider two things: how much stuff you need to store and how much space you have available in your garden. A large shed in a small garden would eat into your growing and seating areas. But of course, if you have a large garden, you may need to house bulky equipment like mowers, scarifiers and trimmers. So, a small shed wouldn’t be adequate.
As well as the length and width, you should also think about the height. Do you want to be able to stand up and move around in your shed? Or would you prefer a lower height to help your shed blend into the background?
Doors
Of course, if you do go with a shed that’s shorter in height, it will be harder to reach inside. So, you should consider a wider door opening to make access easier. One good option is to have large double doors that completely open up one side.
Sometimes, side-opening doors can suit the layout of your garden better too. However, most sheds have doors to the front. These can be double or single doors, so it’s worth considering which of these best suits your needs. Double doors can be more practical for wheeling mowers in and out while single doors need less opening space and can be more secure.
Security
There’s more to shed security than the doors, so you do need to pay attention to some of the other features too. Does it come with a secure lock? Or does it have a hasp and lasp for a padlock instead? If so, check this is heavy-duty rather than flimsy. To be secure, the door should also have well-built hinges. These details can determine how suitable a shed is for storing expensive equipment. You might need to see the shed in person to be certain.
Aside from the door and lock, the sturdiness of the framework can also play a part in your shed’s security. Metal sheds are considered more secure than many other shed types as the robustness of the material makes it hard to break into.
Durability
What your shed is made from can also affect its durability. Metal is strong but the quality of the paintwork or coating can be the deciding factor in how resistant it is to corrosion. Powder coating is commonly used as this doesn’t chip as easily as paint but you do need to check this has been applied evenly.
Traditional sheds are more likely to be made from timber. Although wood can rot, sheds are designed to withstand outdoor conditions. So, timber sheds can still be durable. That said, there are certain things to look out for, such as how the wood is treated. Pressure-treated wood is more durable in the long term than dip-treated wood. And hardwood is stronger and more durable than softwood. The thickness of the panels is also something to consider. The thinner the slats, the less strength, stability and durability your shed is likely to have.
Plastic sheds are another option to contemplate. Plastic and composite materials can be very durable but again, you do need to take a close look at the quality. For instance, plastic sheds with metal frames might be stronger and less prone to warping. And some composite materials are more resistant to fading and brittleness than others.
Construction
Very few sheds come fully built, so it’s also worth considering how easy each option is to construct. Many come in flatpack form to make building a shed a simple project but there are other details to pay attention to. For instance, does the shed need a solid concrete base or does it need anchoring down in some way?
You should also bear in mind that the bigger the shed and panels you have, the more difficult it can be to put up. At the very least, you might need an extra pair of hands to help you move and hold the sections in place.
Roof shape
One thing that’s often overlooked when choosing a shed is the roof shape. Although this might not seem important, it can affect what fits inside. For instance, it may be easier to fit shelves inside a shed with a single-sloped roof than one with a gable roof. Plus, with a gable-roofed shed, you may be restricted to storing tall items in the centre of the shed rather than to one side.
The shape of the roof can also affect how rainwater is channelled. Although a single-sloping roof is best for aligning a shed with a boundary, you don’t want a roof to channel water into your wall or fence. And if you’re keen to harvest rainwater, a gable roof can be a better option.
*Collaborative post
0 comments