The outdoor living structure market size in North America is estimated to be $1.5 billion in 2022, and it is expected to grow at a CAGR of 6.1% from 2023 to 2030 [source: GVR]. This is mainly due to homeowners with large gardens & backyards trying to use their unused spaces in creative ways. Two of the widely used materials to construct an outdoor shed are wood and metal. A wooden shed brings old charm but comes with high maintenance, while a metal outdoor shed is durable, resistant to weather, and needs low upkeep. Let’s see how a garden shed can enhance your outdoor space.
Benefits Of Adding A Garden Shed
Enhance Storage & Organization: Adding a shed can help declutter the garage, basement, and home by moving out tools, equipment, and seasonal items. You can add hooks, vertical shelves, and workbenches in the shed to keep stuff organized.
Dedicated Outdoor Workspace: Having a dedicated area for gardening, DIY projects, storing garden supplies, hobby items, etc., will boost the curb appeal of your home. You can gather all items to pursue your passion and keep them safe from the elements.
Increase Outdoor Living Space: A garden metal shed can be an extended version of your home. You can turn it into a personal retreat or a studio space to relax, entertain friends, or enjoy outdoor meals. Add comfortable seats, lights, and décor to remodel this space into a charming living area.
Boost Aesthetic Appeal: Choose a style that compliments the design of your home and makes it visually appealing. With a metal storage shed, you can choose a boxed-eave roof that gives a traditional appeal or a vertical roof for a modern & sleek look. Choose a color that closely matches your home or blends with the backdrop in your yard.
Support Sustainability Efforts: While wood has been a favorable material in the past, most people are switching to steel as it needs less maintenance, saving homeowners time & money. Additionally, structural steel can be recycled endlessly & doesn’t contribute to deforestation, so you will help in wildlife conservation.
How To Choose The Right Garden Shed
Size & Style: To get the correct size of your metal storage shed, first assess your storage needs and the space available on your property. Subtract setbacks when calculating total space. Check with your local authorities to know if you need to follow guidelines and what the size limits are.
Select a style that is functional. For instance, you can pick translucent glass panels or a door with a steel frame to let natural light in while maintaining your privacy. Choose a white color interior to make the space feel larger.
Choose The Right Material: Wood, metal, vinyl, & fabric are the most used materials for creating outdoor sheds. A metal outdoor garden shed is made using thin yet sturdy steel posts & metal panels that give you more usable square footage. It will save you from frequent repair & replacement hassle.
Features & Options: Include features like windows, skylights, ventilation, & insulation for light, fresh air, and maintaining a cozy indoor vibe. A concrete slab would be multi-purpose & durable flooring. You can stamp & stain it to give a wooden floor look and add an outdoor rug to keep your feet warm.
Budget & Installation: Have a realistic budget set for buying & installing an outdoor shed. Most homeowners spend around $500 to $1000 for a basic shed with a typical size of 8’x12’ and 10’x16’. Opt for metal building dealers who provide shipping & installation for your ease.
Maintaining Your Metal Garden Shed
Regular Maintenance: The inorganic & dense nature of metal doesn’t allow mold spores or termites to sink deep into the shed’s frame or panels. So it doesn’t need deep cleaning. You can use mild soap, a garden hose with a nozzle, and warm water to clean it. Conduct inspections regularly and do touch-ups to avoid any major repairs. Lastly, lubricate moving parts like doors & windows for smooth functioning.
Winterization Tips: Insulate your garden metal shed to regulate indoor temperature, protect stored items from cold & heat, and seal all gaps to avoid insects & rodents. Opt for a vertical roof metal shed as it needs less cleaning than others. Ensure clear & unobstructed ventilation to avoid condensation buildup.
FAQ – Common Garden Shed Questions
Here are some generally asked questions about garden outdoor sheds.
Q. Do I Need A Permit For A Garden Shed?
Generally, a non-human occupant, outdoor building within 120 sq. ft. does not require a permit. But, building codes and zoning laws can vary with location, so check with your local municipal to know if a permit is required.
Q. How Much Does Garden Shed Costs?
The price of a shed varies with design, material, size, and location. For example, a 12×21 metal garden shed with regular roof cost starts at $1095.
Q. How To Make Garden Shed Energy Efficient?
You can add insulators to your shed’s walls & roof and choose energy-saving lighting like Energy-Star-certified LEDs. With a metal outdoor shed, you can get insulation options from metal building dealers.
Q. How To Choose The Right Location For A Metal Garden Shed?
Ensure the shed location has good drainage, ample sunlight, and is close to the utility lines.
Q. What Are Some Low Maintenance Choices For Outdoor Garden Sheds?
You can opt for a metal outdoor shed that is resistant to rot, decay, pests, fire, fading, and insects.
Transform Your Yard Space With Garden Shed Today!
With proper organization, the right material and size selection, and the correct location, you can install a garden shed that fits your purpose. If you want a low-maintenance, durable, and long-lasting shed, opt for a garden metal shed, as it is robust & resilient to outdoor weather conditions. Match the color of the steel shed with your main property or blend it with the outdoors. If aesthetics is your top priority, you can opt for a wooden shed. However, keep in mind that it requires higher maintenance.
