subject: Garden Sheds Which Type Is Best For You? [print this page] Today there is a huge choice of garden sheds on the market; they come in a variety of styles, materials and of course prices but how do you choose which is best for you?
Use
Firstly you need to consider what you will be storing, there is no point in purchasing a cheap shed if you are storing expensive garden machinery as the security will be minimal and an experienced thief will be inside in seconds.
On the flip side, if you only have a few rusty hand tools you may not wish to put them in an expensive designer shed.
As a rule of thumb however it is wise to purchase the best you can afford as you will always be able to fill it up over time, and again the better quality sheds offer a very long term service life, some metal sheds have 25 year guarantees. So buying cheap could be false economy.
Size and location
Think about this carefully, choosing too large and it takes over the garden, but too small and you will be regretting it for years.
Consider where it will be sited and make sure you leave about three feet around the perimeter to allow you access to repair fences or cut back hedges also remember that you will also need space around when you assemble it.
Remember too that sheds are easily hidden strategically placed trellising with fast growing honeysuckle can hide the shed in a matter of months.
Material
Wood, plastic or metal? All have advantages and disadvantages but if you are looking for security, long life and no maintenance then metal is the answer (but not the cheapies from DIY stores).
Plastic is the new fad but even the best ones fade and go brittle over time they are also expensive.
Lastly the good old wooden shed, which look great when new but consider the security aspect and the yearly painting (no, you cant creosote anymore) and the eventual roof felting renewal.
Taking all into consideration and if you can afford it a good quality metal shed is the way to go but be prepared to spend around 900 for a decent one.
Roof style
Although apex sheds are by far the most popular you may wish to consider a pent (lean to) type depending on the location of the shed.
It is best to avoid flat roof sheds as these hold water and will cause problems long term.
