How To Build A Garden Shed - 9 Best Garden Storage Sheds Reviewed

 Garden Sheds

Garden Sheds

Emma Downey

Emma Downey
Gardening Expert

Updated on 6/6/2023

Have a green thumb? Then you'll require a shed. And not just any garden shed, but the correct one for your needs and space. This article will help you find the best storage solution for your outdoor space. Planting a garden is a great outdoor activity. It can also give you a wonderful sense of pleasure and success since you can see how your hard work pays off in such delicate and lovely ways.

However, as any gardener knows, it's easy to amass an extensive collection of tools and equipment over time. As a result, selecting the ideal shed for your garden is critical.

Considerations For A Garden Shed

A Garden Shed

A Garden Shed

Apart from pricing, several factors to consider while purchasing a garden shed. Most shelters on the market may appear similar in appearance, but that is only superficial. It would be helpful if you first determined how much space you'll need to store everything. In other words, when shopping for your ideal shed, consider the items you'll be storing and how you'd like them to be organized. Do you already have a home garden storage solution? Take that into account.
Another thing to consider is whether you'll need a permit for your new shed. Consult your local authorities to determine whether there are any size or height restrictions. Lastly, consider the materials used to construct the shed and how long they will last. Wooden sheds are attractive, but if the wood has not been adequately cared for, you may need to replace it in a few years.

Consider the shed's footprint as well as the storage space it provides. Those are two different things!

Review of the Best Small Garden Sheds

Small Garden Sheds

Small Garden Sheds

We've chosen some of the top sheds on the market to help you save time and make an informed purchase. These are well-liked, highly rated products that will not disappoint, and find them right now.

Big Max Junior Garden Storage Sheds By Rubbermaid

Would you like a lot of storage without taking up much space? The Rubbermaid Big Max Junior Storage Shed or rubbermaid outdoor storage cabinet makes it feasible. We chose it because it's so easy to assemble. It has a robust double-walled design that protects the goods inside. There will be no rust, rot, or other difficulties because it is all-weather resin.

It has the most up-to-date wall anchor system for quick and easy installation on shelves, pegboards, and other accessories.

Pros:

  • The floor is heavy-duty and impact resistant.
  • You can lock the doors to keep your valuables even safer.
  • It is both appealing and long-lasting (weather-resistant, dent-resistant, leak-resistant).
  • There is no requirement for upkeep. It has two doors for a spacious entrance.

Cons:

  • It can be tough to assemble on your own.

6402 Storage Garden Shed By Lifetime

Based on its appearance, size, durability, pricing, and other qualities, the Lifetime 6402 Outdoor Storage Shed is our second choice for home garden buildings. Sheds from Lifetime come in a variety of sizes and types. However, we find that this one is the most practical, as it eliminates the need for future growth. With 620 cubic feet of interior capacity, you can easily store your 4-wheeler lawn mower while still having plenty of room for other supplies. 

According to the instructions, this shed should be erected on a raised platform to level the ground. Overall, if you're searching for a stylish and robust garden shed with complete accessories and a warranty, this is the one to get.

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Pros:

  • It is made of high-density polyethylene double-walled shed.
  • A slip-resistant floor that won't discolor, chip, or scrape is included.
  • Appearance is appealing.
  • It includes a complete set of accessories.
  • A ten-year warranty comes with it.
  • When compared to vinyl sheds, these are more durable.

Cons:

  •  There are numerous pieces to assemble, and they should go on the ground level.

Garden Shed Rubbermaid Plastic Large Outdoor Storage

Rubbermaid sheds are well-known for their easy assembly, long lifespan, and sturdy structure. Our final choice is this spacious outdoor shed, which is ideal for a home with a large backyard. It may also hold a large number of tools. It boasts wide double doors that make storing mowers, wheelbarrows, and extensive tools a breeze. Although no indoor shelving is included, the wall anchor system allows you to quickly add a customized shelf, pegboards, and hangers to meet your storage needs.

Pros:

  • Bicycles, Step Ladders, snowblowers, and extensive tools may all be stored behind the double doors.
  • Rubbermaid is known for its double-wall design and durability.
  • This shed is resistant to the elements, leaks, and dents.
  • There is no need for maintenance because it will not rust or rot.

Cons: 

  • It's pretty pricey.
  • Because it's composed of plastic, it's not very fashionable.
  • Shelf included.

6405 Lifetime Outdoor Storage Shed

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Our fourth choice is the Lifetime 6405 Outdoor Storage Sheds, which comprises high-quality materials and provides ample storage for all your home garden equipment.

Because it is rot-resistant and waterproof, it requires little care. This hut has a tall roof and a 6'8′′ internal dimension. It contains slip-resistant flooring constructed of high-density polyethylene that will not peel, chip, or break. It's also stain and grease-resistant. For further strength, it incorporates steel-reinforced doors with a high arch. Skylights screened vents, and shatter-proof windows give natural lighting on the inside. This shed will last longer, and you will not have any troubles with it.

6405 Lifetime Outdoor

6405 Lifetime Outdoor

Pros

  • Internal locking mechanisms and configurable interior shelves are among the benefits.
  • This shed is both high-performing and long-lasting.
  • It has four large skylights, two screened vents, and one shatter-resistant window.
  • It has a 4'W X 6′ H high door opening.
  • The roof slopes to let rain and snow drain quickly.

Cons:

  • Not the cheapest option available, and it will require some assembly.
  • Adding more shelving is also expensive.

How To Assemble Your Lifetime Storage Shed

6446 Outdoor Storage Sheds By Lifetime

The Lifetime 6446 Garden Shed is an excellent choice if you want a high-end shed with plenty of storage. It has a tall A-Frame roof with headroom of 6'8". This shed has steel wall supports and is made of high-density polyethylene. It has two shatterproof windows that open to provide additional ventilation.

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Pros:

  • They are made of rot- and rust-resistant weather-resistant polyethylene.
  • More ventilation comes via six skylights, two shatterproof windows, two vents, and two shutters, among other features.
  • It has a UV-protected dual-wall construction.
  • This shed requires little upkeep.
  • It includes heavy-duty steel trusses for further roof strength.
  • A 10-year limited manufacturer warranty comes with this product.

Cons:

  • It is not as appealing as wood, and this shed has to go together.
  • For installation, a significant and stable level ground must be available.
  • It has a pleasing appearance and layout.
  • The steeply pitched roof allows rain and snow to drain quickly.

Steel Garden Shed Arrow Woodlake

Arrow Woodlake is our sixth selection because of its appealing appearance and reasonable pricing for what it provides. It's a medium-sized garden shed made of pre-cut and pre-drilled metal with easy-to-open, lockable outside doors. This shed's wood texture and forest green exterior make it perfect for any backyard with landscaping timber. You may have a convenient storage area where you need it in your yard with this home garden shed. It's an excellent shed for garden tools, modest patio furniture, and sports equipment.

Pros:

  • The wood grain panels on this shed are lovely.
  • Because it is composed of pre-cut and pre-drilled materials, it is simple to put together.
  • Because it is made of galvanized steel, it is sturdy and may endure longer.
  • Limited 12-year warranty
  • The slides on the track door are smooth and non-sticky.
  • Excellent value for money.

Cons:

  • Internal storage compartments and shelves do not come with it.
  • Metal construction has a propensity for bending.
  • The flooring requires a complete pad.

ARROW STORAGE

ARROW STORAGE

Outdoor Storage Garden Shed By Lifetime 60057

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Our seventh choice is the Lifetime 60057 Outdoor Storage Sheds. It's the perfect size for storing mowers, wheelbarrows, and hoes. Long-handled garden tools, hedge trimmers, and leaf blowers can be stored on robust walls using hooks. Although this garden shed is not the cheapest, we appreciate its high-quality construction. It has thick steel-reinforced walls for added strength, and a skylight provides natural lighting. This sturdy plastic garden shed looks great next to your garage or porch.

Pros:

  • Low maintenance is required.
  • This UV-protected shed is built to last.
  • A 10-year limited manufacturer warranty applies.
  • The steeply pitched roof allows rain and snow to drain quickly.
  • For added robustness, the roof is composed of heavy-duty steel trusses.
  • It has a padlock loop and a latch.
  • Very simple to put together.

Cons:

  • A flat, level base is required.
  • It will be impossible for you to paint it.

 Outdoor Storage Garden Shed

Outdoor Storage Garden Shed

Rubbermaid Large Storage Garden Shed In Plastic

Our number eight pick is the Rubbermaid Plastic Large Vertical Outdoor Storage Shed, and it's the ideal storage solution for garden tools with long handles and other supplies and accessories. This shelter consists of double-walled heavy-duty polycarbonate that resists dents, leaks, and the elements. Unlike wood or metal, this plastic shed can never rot or rust, and it's pretty simple to put together (no power tools required). It lacks indoor shelving, but Rubbermaid wall anchors can mount shelves, hooks, and other storage items.

Outdoor Garden Storage Shed  Brown

Outdoor Garden Storage Shed Brown

Pros:

  • It boasts impact-resistant flooring to keep your belongings safe.
  • Two people can assemble this shed using only standard home equipment.
  • No upkeep is necessary.
  • This room is big enough for lawn and garden items like push mowers.
  • You can effortlessly organize your belongings with a customized wood shelf (sold separately).

Cons:

  • When compared to wooden sheds, it lacks style.
  • It is not suitable for colossal machinery.
  • Manufacturer's one-year warranty.
  • This shed is quite pricey.

Garden Shed 2X4 Basics 90192

belongs to our ninth shed kit collection. It is a cost-effective Do-It-Yourself alternative. It's a rugged kit includes 39 connector brackets constructed of 24 gauge galvanized steel. Inside the packaging, you'll find a list of the supplies needed, a lumber cutting list, and assembly instructions. One kit should be enough if you're aiming to build a 7'x 8' shed. Two kits are required for an 8'x 14' shed, while three are needed for a 10'x 22' shed. The construction is straightforward, requiring simply straight and 90-degree cuts. No miter or detailed measurements are required. This shed kit is simple, even if you are not a carpenter.

 Shed Kit with Peak Roof

Shed Kit with Peak Roof

Pros:

  • Allows you to pick your shed size.
  • It's simple to put together.
  • This shed is solid and long-lasting.
  • Good value.

Cons:

  • You'll need to buy many materials, such as wood, paint, and other materials.
  • Assembly is required.
  • It takes two people to put it together.
  • Only a two-year warranty.

How To Make A Garden Shed At Home

Would you prefer to build your garden shed than purchase one already made? You might save money while having fun (assuming you have simple access to the materials). You don't need to be an expert builder, but you should be comfortable with basic DIY skills.

1. Make The Area Clear And Level

Make sure you level the land before building your shed. If you're laying a wood floor, keep it away from the ground to avoid decay. The foundation might be built using cinder blocks or on top (3-4 inches thick). The cinder blocks or stones will prevent moisture from entering the earth.

2. Build The Foundation

A pressure-treated 2x6 timber usually serves to construct a wood foundation. These portions are known as the band on the ends and the joist in the middle, and they generally are 16-24 inches apart. The foundation frame will support itself with 44 pressure-treated posts known as skids. The skids will be placed atop cinder blocks or on the gravel to avoid rot.

build the foundation garden-shed

build the foundation garden-shed

3. Put Up The Walls

Building the wall frame on the leveled floor is simple once the floor is complete. 24 timber can construct the wall frames, and plates refer to the top and bottom 24s. Nail through the leaves and into the wall studs, spacing the 24 wall studs 16-24 inches apart. You can apply the siding while the wall frame is still on the ground to make things easier. Raising the wall and nailing it to the floor is the next step after it's finished.

Put up the Walls

Put up the Walls

4. Put The Roof Truss Together

The roof truss can be made out of 24 or 26-inch lumber. The typical truss construction method is cutting out the rafters and joining them with gussets. Using plans to build the roof truss will be the most convenient option. Another method is to lay the 2x4s or 2x6s on the level floor, arrange them how you want your roof to be, and build a template. You can make the rest if you're happy with your plan and the appearance of your template.

5. Install Windows And Siding

You must cut out the wall and frame it for the size of the window if you want to add one. You must install the siding according to the manufacturer's directions.

6. Construct A Garden Shed Door

You can use plywood to construct the shed door—14 trim around the door and the door opening. Install hinges on the door opening trim and fasten it to the door. Additionally, ensure that anyone using the shed can get in without stumbling over the entryway by ensuring it's broad enough. The larger the opening, the more goods you'll be able to carry in.

7. Paint And Install Trim

When the shed is finished, you can add trim and paint to make it seem prettier. Trim the four corner walls and where the siding meets with 14 frames. After the shed has been built, you will need to cover it with some material, which is usually unnecessary if you buy a metal or plastic shed. On the other hand, a decent quality stain and water sealant or paint for wood can make the shed survive for years.

Install Trim garden-shed

Install Trim garden-shed

Shed Plans That Will Assist You In The Construction Of A Shed

Shed Plans That Will Assist You In The Construction Of A Shed

Shed Plans That Will Assist You In The Construction Of A Shed

You won't have to spend any money on shed plans if you use these free shed designs since you'll be able to build the ideal home garden or storage shed for your needs.

These free woodworking designs are available in various styles, including gable, gambrel, and colonial. They are also built for multiple applications, including storage, tool storage, and even play spaces for children. They can assist you in building sheds of any size, from the smallest to the largest.

You will feel comfortable constructing a shed for your home garden or backyard if you follow the step-by-step building directions included in each plan. These methods include diagrams, images, videos, lists of materials, lists of cuttings, and shopping lists.

Does someone have a recurring dream about a shed? Because they can so easily be transformed into a TV room, craft space, or just a place to unwind and get away from it all, these layouts make an excellent choice for a hideaway for the ladies.

Free Building Plan For A Fantastic Tool Shed

An excellent free shed plan is available for a 6x8 shed accessible from Popular Mechanics. This shed plan would be ideal for storing lawn equipment and gardening items. If you are interested in constructing a more oversized shed, the free shed plan can be adapted to accommodate sheds of up to 8x10 feet in size.

Picket Storage Shed Made Of Small Cedar Fence Pickets

Picket Storage Shed Made Of Small Cedar Fence Pickets

Picket Storage Shed Made Of Small Cedar Fence Pickets

Ana White has designed this free shed plan. It creates a shed out of cedar fence pickets and has an estimated final cost of about $250 to construct. There is a shopping list, a list of tools, general directions, color images, diagrams, a large number of project photos, and helpful hints.

Free Shed Plan For An Economical And Space-Saving Storage Shed

The layout presented here was created with cost constraints; nevertheless, you wouldn't know it by looking at the lovely design, which includes arched windows and a bespoke entrance. Building your shed on a shoestring budget won't be difficult if you follow the directions and illustrations on the plan and look at the actual images.

Free Storage Shed Plan Designed To Look Like A Schoolhouse

This is a plan for a shed that seems like a one-room schoolhouse. It is a large shed measuring ten by 12 feet and has fiber-cement siding, double doors, and a covered entryway. This plan includes detailed step-by-step directions and a list of the required tools and supplies.

A Smokehouse Or Outdoor Shed Of A Smaller Scale

A Smokehouse or Outdoor Shed of a Smaller Scale

A Smokehouse or Outdoor Shed of a Smaller Scale

This is an intriguing concept for what initially appears to be a tiny shed, but it can quickly be converted into a smokehouse if that is what you choose. The designs include a variety of helpful hints, color photographs, a shopping list, a tool list, a cut list, diagrams, and step-by-step directions for building.

A Blueprint For A Garden Closet Storage Shed

You are looking at a free blueprint for a tiny shed that is only the size of a closet. Here is that layout. However, if you need a place to store some standard lawn equipment or gardening tools, it can be precisely what you're looking for.

You will be able to construct this shed with the assistance of a list of tools and materials, detailed instructions, diagrams, and many images.

Plan For A Garden Shed That Is Narrow

You will need seven pages of shed designs to construct a slender shed for your garden that is seven feet wide and four feet deep.

You will be able to construct this simple yet powerful shed with the help of a parts list, designs, and instructions.

Free Gambrel-Style Storage Shed Plans Available

A Smokehouse or Outdoor Shed of a Smaller Scale

A Smokehouse or Outdoor Shed of a Smaller Scale

When you complete constructing this shed, you will have Gambrel storage shed that is ten by 12 feet in size and may be relocated if necessary. It is made so much easier by having a comprehensive material list, and it may even be finished in a single weekend.

Free Blueprint For A Garden Shed

Another one, this one large enough to accommodate a workstation or potting bench in addition to a great deal of your personal property, is presented here. By downloading this free plan, you may obtain a materials list, plans, and directions for building this shed.

Garden Shed Design In The Style Of An 8x7 Tudor

BuildEazy has provided a detailed blueprint for constructing a home garden shed in the Tudor style that is eight by 7 feet. There are plans available for you to build this similar style of the shed in a 10x10 size if you are searching for a more oversized shed than the 8x8 you already have. You can navigate through each phase of constructing this shed by clicking on the links at the blueprint's bottom.

Free Shed Plans For A Backyard Shed With A Drive-Thru Entrance

Free Shed Plans For A Backyard Shed

Free Shed Plans For A Backyard Shed

If you use this plan to construct a storage shed in your backyard that is large enough to accommodate your riding lawn mower, you will envy everyone in your area. You can build this shed exactly how you envisioned it with the assistance of the images and color photos included in this guide.

Free Shed Plan In The Gable Style

This plan is for portable Gable storage shed with finished dimensions of 8 by 8 feet and construction on a skid foundation so that it may be relocated in the future if necessary. Thanks to the illustrated graphics provided for each step, you won't have any trouble following this one. On the very first page of the plans, you'll find a comprehensive description of the materials and the cuts that need to be made.

Free Shed Plan For A Gable-roofed 8x10 Garden Shed

This beautiful home garden shed has a roof overhang and provides 80 square feet of room for working and storing home garden equipment. A window and a workbench create the ideal environment for potting plants indoors. This free shed plan measures 8x10 and can also be constructed with a deck around it. To download it, you will first need to register, which is entirely free, but once you have done so, you will be able to download the plan and the material list as PDF files immediately afterward.

Shed Plans Made From Board And Batten Measuring 7x8

You may construct a board-and-batten shed measuring seven by 8 feet with the help of this free shed plan. A parts list, detailed instructions, and schematics are all part of the plan that has been provided.

Free 8x10 Storage Shed Plans To Download

Storage Shed Plans To Download

Storage Shed Plans To Download

Build an 8x10 storage shed for your yard with the help of this plan from BuildEazy, which provides you with everything you need to get the job done. You will be able to construct a simple storage shed with its assistance, which will be ideal for housing all of your tools and lawn equipment.

A Place Called Sanity; A Garden Shed Of Reality

We hope you love this collection of favorite sheds as much as we do. These structures are practical and excellent, whether used to store yard items or give a peaceful space to go away. A home garden is a relaxing environment where you can unwind. And, as previously stated, no garden is complete without a shed. Furthermore, storing all of those tools without a shed might be troublesome!

workshop shed

workshop shed

Don't want to spend money on storage sheds garden? Don't mistake not constructing your shed because you've never done so before. Remember that if a shed you prefer has poor access, not all of your belongings will fit inside, and it will effectively defeat its purpose. It's essential to make the most of this garden shed ideas and, most importantly, that you love it and that it serves as a source of organization and sanity. Do you own a shed or intend to purchase or construct one soon? Let us know what you think. Contact us right away!

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is The Best Garden Shed For The Money?

The Rubbermaid Big Max Junior Storage and Plastic Large Outdoor Storage Garden Shed and the Lifetime 6402 Storage Garden Shed are all solid and long-lasting choices. For additional information, see our complete list of the best garden shelters.

Do You Require Permission To Construct A Garden Shed?

It truly depends on where you live; however, if the place where you build or install the shed is on your property and does not touch your neighbor's house or fence, you won't need permission.

How Much Would A 10x10 Shed Set You Back?

If you already have some of the materials and can handle most of the labor yourself, you'll probably need at least $4000-5000. Instead of building a shed, you might be able to achieve the same amount of storage space by purchasing one (or two smaller ones). Please take a look at our top-rated garden shelters for sale.

Is It Possible To Live In A Garden Shed?

You can live in it temporarily, at least during the warmer seasons, if it's large and well-insulated. However, keep in mind that not all garden sheds provide adequate ventilation or lighting for a human to live comfortably. If you plan to live in a DIY garden shed, make it to your specifications.