Selecting a Shed – What You Need to Know
Spring is right around the corner, and with it comes the urge to tidy up your lawn and outdoor spaces. If new gardening equipment, lawn supplies, and extra “stuff” are starting to pile up, a backyard shed might be the perfect solution for your outdoor storage needs. Before you invest in an outdoor storage shed, here are a few important things to consider.
Check the Rules Before You Buy
Some planned communities and suburban areas don’t allow sheds or have strict guidelines about outbuildings. Before you fall in love with a particular shed, check with your homeowners’ association or local zoning board to make sure a shed is allowed on your property.
- Confirm whether sheds or other outbuildings are permitted.
- Ask about limits on shed size, height, and placement on the lot.
- Find out if there are rules about color, roofing, or siding materials.
Getting clear on these rules up front helps you avoid the disappointment and cost of purchasing a shed you can’t use.
Set a Smart Shed Budget
You’ll also want to establish a realistic budget. While it’s tempting to choose the least expensive option, sheds made from higher quality materials with solid construction generally last longer and look better over time. That’s a win for your curb appeal and for your neighbors.
- Compare prices for different materials and construction methods.
- Choose sturdy, basic details over decorative extras if you need to save.
- Decide whether you’ll assemble a shed kit yourself or hire a professional.
If you’ll need help building or installing the shed, include labor costs in your final budget.
Plan for Easy Access
An outdoor storage shed is only helpful if it’s easy to use. Make sure the opening is wide enough for your largest piece of equipment, such as a lawn tractor or wheelbarrow, and that there’s room to move around once everything is inside.
- Measure your largest tools and equipment before choosing a door size.
- Allow enough interior space for shelving, hooks, and walkways.
- If the doorway is raised, plan for a shallow ramp to roll items in and out.
Thinking through access now will keep your shed functional and frustration-free later.
Choose a Shed Style That Fits Your Home
Your shed will be part of your yard for many years, so it should complement the style of your home and community. The right design can look like a natural extension of your outdoor living space instead of an afterthought.
- Rustic or country homes pair well with wooden sheds and classic details.
- Contemporary homes look best with clean lines and neutral colors.
- Formal homes often call for more traditional trim and symmetry.
You can personalize your shed with shutters, window boxes, cupolas, or simple landscaping. Planting beds around the shed or adding trellises with climbing vines can help it blend beautifully into your backyard.
Compare Shed Materials and Maintenance
Most sheds are made from metal, wood, or plastic, and each option has different maintenance needs, costs, and benefits.
Metal Sheds
- Typically built with a metal frame and factory-painted or vinyl-coated panels.
- Require minimal maintenance but can corrode if the finish is scratched.
- Door hardware and moving parts may wear out over time.
Plastic or Vinyl Sheds
- Often made from vinyl (PVC) or other durable plastics.
- Require the least maintenance—color is molded into the material, so there’s no paint to worry about.
- Resist rot and rust, making them a good low-maintenance choice.
Wood Sheds
- Usually framed with studs and covered in plywood, lap siding, or similar materials.
- Roofed with standard shingles, much like a small house.
- Provide a classic look and strong structure but require regular painting and occasional repairs.
Think about how much time you want to spend maintaining your shed and choose the material that fits your lifestyle.
Don’t Forget the Floor and Foundation
Some sheds include a floor; others do not. Many wood sheds come with a framed floor and plywood decking, while metal and plastic sheds often offer flooring as an add-on. If flooring is not included, expect to pay extra or budget time to build your own.
No matter which option you choose, plan to set your shed on a foundation that keeps it off bare soil and encourages drainage. Good options include pressure-treated timbers, concrete blocks, or a bed of hard-packed gravel. A solid, well-drained base helps prevent rot, shifting, and other moisture issues over time.
Find the Right Shed for Your New Home
With a little planning, you can select a shed that meets your storage needs, fits your budget, and enhances the look of your yard. By understanding your community rules, choosing quality materials, planning for easy access, and installing a proper foundation, your shed can serve your home and family well for many years.
If you’re dreaming of a new home with room for the perfect backyard shed, explore our new homes in coastal Georgia at ErnestHomes.com or contact our team to learn more.
