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Shed Buying Guide: How to Choose the Perfect Backyard Shed
Looking to buy a shed but unsure where to start? You’re not alone. With so many sizes, styles, and materials to choose from, picking the right backyard shed can feel overwhelming. But don’t worry, we’ve built this shed buying guide to break it all down for you. Whether you need a simple storage solution or a fully customized backyard retreat, you’ll find everything you need to make the right decision here.
Let’s walk through the key decisions and how to make them confidently.
How to Choose a Shed That Actually Fits Your Life
Start by thinking about how you’ll use your shed. A storage shed for lawn tools? A home gym? A small backyard office? The more specific you get, the easier your choice will be.
Ask yourself:
- What will I store in the shed?
- Do I need room to move around?
- Will I want electricity or insulation later?
Choosing a shed that matches your future needs is just as important as the present. Use our 3D Builder Tool to design a shed that fits your lifestyle.
Types of Backyard Sheds
We offer a wide range of backyard shed styles, each crafted with care to match your storage needs, backyard layout, and personal taste. Whether you’re looking for a simple utility shed or a statement piece that complements your home, we’ve got you covered:
A-Frame Metal Shed
A clean, classic roofline and durable metal build make this A-frame shed perfect for everyday backyard storage. Great for tools, bikes, and seasonal décor.
Economy Metal Shed
Budget-friendly and built to last, the Economy Metal Shed is a smart choice for simple storage needs without compromising durability.
Barn Style Metal Shed
With its tall gambrel roof and metal construction, this barn-style shed offers extra overhead space and long-term protection for lawn gear and tools.
A-Frame Wood Shed
A timeless wood design with a peaked roof, the A-frame Wood Shed fits beautifully in any backyard while offering reliable storage for years to come.
Quaker Style Wood Shed
Featuring an offset roof and charming overhang, the Quaker Wood Shed adds character to your yard and extra functionality with a built-in loft.
Barn Style Wood Shed
Designed for maximum vertical space, the Barn Style Shed is perfect for larger storage needs. Ideal for gardening tools, bikes, or even a workshop setup.
New England Wood Shed
With premium trim, transom windows, and a distinct upscale look, the New England Shed combines form and function for elevated backyard storage.
Every shed we build is fully customizable, and you can design yours from scratch using our 3D Shed Builder. No matter your budget or vision, we’ll help you create a shed that’s both functional and beautiful.
Wood vs Metal Sheds: Which Is Better?
Both wood and metal sheds have their advantages. Wood sheds are ideal if you’re after classic aesthetics and customization, while metal sheds stand out for their durability, affordability, and lower upkeep. The better option depends on your needs, but for most backyard storage, a metal or wood shed will give you the space, style, and strength you’re looking for.
Considering a hybrid design? Learn about the benefits of a wood-framed, metal-sheeted shed and why it might be the best of both worlds for durability and curb appeal.
We build both metal and wood sheds. Here’s the quick breakdown of each shed’s pros and cons:
| Feature | Wood Sheds | Metal Sheds |
|---|---|---|
| Aesthetic | Classic, customizable look | Sleek, modern durability |
| Maintenance | Needs occasional upkeep | Low-maintenance |
| Longevity | Great with care | Excellent, weatherproof |
| Cost | Slightly higher upfront | Budget-friendly |
Want a deep dive? Read our full Metal Vs Wood Sheds comparison.
Shed Sizes & What They’re Best For
Choosing the right shed size depends on what you plan to store. A 10×12 shed works great for lawn tools and seasonal décor, while larger 12×24 sheds give you room for equipment, workshops, or even small office setups. Explore our full range of shed sizes to find the perfect fit for your backyard needs.
Here’s a cheat sheet of common shed sizes and use cases:
- 8×12 or 10×12: Perfect for garden tools, bikes, and lawn equipment.
- 12×16 or 12×20: Ideal for workshops, home gyms, or small studios.
- 12×24 or larger: Excellent for multi-purpose use or serious storage needs.
Browse sheds by size to see what fits your property.
Shed Prices: What Should You Expect?
Understanding shed pricing is essential before making a decision. Whether you’re looking for a basic utility shed or a fully customized structure, your total cost will depend on several key factors, primarily shed size, material (wood vs. metal), style, and extra features like windows, lofts, doors, or insulation.
Below is a general pricing guide to help you estimate what you might pay for different shed types:
| Shed Size & Style | Estimated Price Range |
|---|---|
| 8×12 Economy Shed | $2,500 – $4,500 |
| 10×16 A-Frame Shed | $4,000 – $7,000 |
| 12×24 Barn Style Shed | $6,000 – $10,000+ |
Factors That Influence Shed Pricing:
- Material Type: Metal sheds are typically more affordable and lower maintenance, while wood sheds offer more visual appeal and customization options. Learn more in our Wood vs Metal Shed Comparison.
- Custom Features: Adding lofts, extra doors, windows, ramps, or upgraded roofing will increase cost.
- Size: Larger sheds (especially anything 12×24 and up) will naturally command higher prices.
- Delivery & Setup: Prefab sheds delivered fully assembled may have delivery fees depending on your location.
Want Monthly Payments?
If paying in full isn’t ideal, explore our Rent-to-Own shed options. These flexible plans let you enjoy sheds with monthly payments, no credit check required.
Financial Considerations: Rent-To-Own Sheds
Buying a shed doesn’t have to mean paying all at once. If you’re looking for affordable backyard storage, we offer Rent-To-Own sheds that give you flexibility without credit checks or large upfront costs.
You can choose monthly payment plans that fit your budget, and at the end of the term, the shed is yours to keep! It’s a smart way to invest in a large shed, garage shed, or even a custom-built backyard structure without the financial stress. Explore why our Rent-To-Own options may work for you here.
Popular Backyard Shed Uses
Sheds have come a long way from just being a place to toss your tools. Today, a backyard shed can be transformed into nearly anything you imagine, with the right setup, size, and materials. Want to turn your shed into something unique? These shed makeover ideas offer creative inspiration for transforming your space into a personal retreat, workshop, or backyard office.
Here are some of the most popular and practical shed uses, along with the benefits of each:
- Garden Shed – Keep your tools organized, your supplies dry, and your planting schedule on track. A garden shed offers dedicated space for wheelbarrows, fertilizers, and seasonal storage, all while keeping your garage clutter-free.
- Potting Shed – A dream for backyard gardeners, a potting shed gives you a weather-protected place to start seedlings, repot plants, and store soil and pots. Add shelving and windows, and you’ve got a sunny, functional workspace.
- Home Gym Shed – Forget crowded gyms. With a shed converted into a personal gym, you get 24/7 access to your equipment—no commute required. Large shed sizes like 12×20 or 14×24 are perfect for weights, mats, and cardio gear.
- Art or Music Studio – Whether you paint or play guitar, a shed studio provides quiet, creative space just steps from home. Add insulation, soundproofing, and electricity to make it your personal escape.
- Remote Work Office – With more people working from home, an office shed has become a top choice for productivity. It gives you privacy, peace, and a clear divide between work and personal life. You can even outfit it with AC and Wi-Fi.
- Guest Room Shed – Turn your shed into a cozy backyard retreat with finished walls, flooring, and furniture. It’s ideal for guests, adult children, or even short-term rentals.
- Workshop or Hobby Shed – Whether it’s woodworking, crafting, or tinkering with tools, a backyard shed gives hobbyists the room they need to spread out and get to work without interrupting the rest of the home.
Planning a patio or garden setup around your shed? Browse our outdoor furniture ideas for a stylish, functional backyard layout.
Will my shed need a permit?
Yes, most areas do require permits for sheds, especially if your structure is larger than 200 square feet, permanently anchored, or includes utilities like plumbing or electrical wiring. Local zoning laws often dictate setback distances from property lines, height restrictions, and usage limitations (like using it as a home office or guest room).
Every county and sometimes even every town has its own rules. That’s why it’s important to check with your local building department before buying or installing your shed.
Need help figuring it out? Check out our Shed Permit Guide for Virginia, or contact us and we’ll walk you through the process to ensure your backyard shed project is smooth and stress-free.
What Features Should You Consider?
Whether you’re storing tools, creating a backyard workshop, or building your dream hobby space, the right features can make all the difference in how functional, comfortable, and enjoyable your shed is long-term. Think beyond four walls. Great sheds offer:
- Double doors for easy access
- Built-in lofts for overhead storage
- Windows for natural light
- Ramps for mowers
- Insulation and electrical for long-term comfort
Not sure how to get the most out of your new shed? Check out our 10 Shed Organization Tips to keep things tidy, efficient, and easy to access from day one.
Backyard Size & Shed Foundation
Before picking out your dream shed, make sure your backyard has enough space, not just for the shed itself, but for proper placement and access. Check your property lines, HOA rules (if applicable), and choose a foundation that fits your shed’s size and purpose.
Popular foundation options include gravel pads, concrete slabs, and pressure-treated wood bases. A good foundation isn’t just about stability, it protects your wood or metal shed from moisture, settling, and long-term damage. For larger sheds or heavy-duty uses, we strongly recommend going with a concrete foundation for maximum support.
Shed Warranties and Delivery
Every shed we sell is backed by a solid manufacturer’s warranty that protects your investment. Whether you choose a metal shed for durability or a wood shed for style, you’ll have peace of mind knowing your building is built to last.
Worried about getting it to your backyard? Don’t be. We offer free shed delivery within our service area and make the process as easy as possible. You’ll get clear prep instructions, on-time arrival, and a crew that treats your property with care. To get the most longevity out of your investment, don’t miss our top shed maintenance tips, perfect for keeping your shed looking new for years.
Ready to Build the Perfect Shed?
Whether you’re dreaming of a cozy garden shed, a full-size workshop, or just need extra space to organize your life, we’re here to make it easy. With our 3D Shed Builder, you can design every detail before you commit. Play with roof styles, choose your colors, adjust layouts, and add the features that matter most to you.