subject: Top 5 factors to consider when choosing a shed [print this page] 1. Which Wood?1. Which Wood?
Sheds are made from softwoods-usually pine(sometimes referred to as redwood or reddeal)or spruce(white deal).A few are larch or Douglas fir,and in theory these should beslightly more resistant to rot.Most rot-resistant of all are cedar sheds,but these are almosttwice the price of pine ones.
2.Size
If you have space,opt for a shed measuring at least 6ft x 8ft.This size has double the floorarea of a 6ft x 4ft,and room for a work bench along one side.Expect to pay at least 200-300 for a typical shiplap model made from pine.If the shed is to go in a very confinedspace,make sure you know its precise dimensions.The size quoted by the supplier may notbe very accurate or include the roof overhang.
3.Style
Pent-roofed sheds-those with a single slope-suit being put against a vertical surface such as a wall or fence.Elsewhere,an apex roof will probably look better-provided it won't viewed side-on.An apex roof is less likely to sag over time than a pent one,as it issupported by shorter timbers.
4.Access
Ensure those who will be using the shed can get in without tripping over the doorwaythreshold or banging their head.Also check the doorway is wide enough.Single doors rangefrom about 3ft wide to only 2ft 2in.The wider the opening,the wider the items you'll beable to bring inside.If a shed you like has poor access,check whether higher eaves and/ora wider or double door are available as optional extras.
5.Is it good value
Try to find at least two or three models that you like-preferably from different outlets.Then,work out a total price including VAT,delivery and any extras such as an openingwindow and assembly.To compare the price of similar models that differ in size,work outthe cost per square foot of floor area.
