A garden shed, sometimes called a storage shed, is a very handy space for storing just about anything. It's an independent structure usually constructed or installed in a backyard away from public eye. It can be made out of anything as long as it stands the test of time and protects the contents within from damage.
With a budget that can be expansive, garden sheds can take on the appearance of tiny houses. They may have windows and stylish gambrel roofs or consist of a square, flat roof structure and a door as the only opening. As for what types can be made, metal, wood and plastic are common building materials.
Metal sheds: Metal sheds are strong and can withstand considerable impact. They're made of corrugated galvanized steel or aluminum to endure the corrosive effects of air and water. Sheds made of thin sheet metal tend to dent easily so choosing a heavier metal with a corrugated style is a better idea.
Wooden sheds: Wooden sheds are eco-friendly and don't cost a lot since planks can be salvaged from lumberyards and even your own backyard. The natural look they have appeals to many as it blends in with surroundings easily. However, using untreated wood makes it prone to insect activity and facilitates rot. Hardier woods like cedar resist rain damage better but are more expensive.
Plastic sheds: Plastic sheds are PVC-based. They're cheaper than others and easier to set up. They don't corrode, don't attract pests and don't dent or chip as fast. However, they're usually small so if you're planning to store a large number of belongings, you'll find yourself lacking space.
Asbestos sheds: Asbestos sheds are no longer popular as the health effects of the material began to be realized. However, they can still be seen around very old houses due to their durable nature.
Rooflines on sheds are chosen for functionality and aesthetics. While it's possible to construct virtually any type of roofline, the decision should be based on how it can serve you. For example, a flat roof won't facilitate rainwater runoff and will damage the structure so make sure it caters to climate and easy maintenance.
Gable shed: A gable shed has a roofline that slopes on either side in an inverted 'V' shape. It's one of the most popular styles of rooflines because you can create a small attic space. It also suits rainy places as water is guided down.
Gambrel shed: A gambrel shed has four slopes, two on each side. It's stylish and offers more space than a gable shed. Attics be built and headroom is increased.
Saltbox shed: Salt box sheds are popular for their easy construction and scalability. A distinguishing characteristic is one side of the roof is shorter than the other. When viewed from the front, saltbox sheds resemble small houses so they're often painted to match the main house.
Lean to shed: A lean to shed can be both an integrated or freestanding structure. It has one long slope on the front and a rear that's flat. While not as 'good-looking' as the rest, it's a DIYer's ideal style because it can be built with little know-how. It's not meant to store volumes of belongings and is too small to fit a car so choose this only if you need a place to store firewood, tools and BBQ grills.
