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Best Shed Materials

An outdoor shed adds much-needed storage space where you can store home and gardening tools. It can also be used as an extra living space for meditation, yoga, or as a workshop or hobby room. Several types of materials can be used to construct a shed and each option comes with its benefits and downsides. The decision to choose a certain material for a shed may be influenced by the targeted usage alongside other lifestyle factors. This article discusses the best shed materials including common features, and pros and cons for each shed material.

  • Plastic Sheds

Plastic sheds are becoming the most popular choice for homeowners due to several reasons. Not only are they affordable but highly durable because they do not crack easily. Plastic sheds can be made from vinyl or resin and are often confused with one another because they almost look identical. Plastic sheds made from vinyl are more durable because they are fire retardant, weather-resistant, and impervious to cracks. Vinyl plastic sheds are ideal for people who live in hot and humid climates because they can withstand extreme temperatures. Lifetime sheds are made from high-density polyethylene for ultimate strength and durability.

blue shed in the yard

Plastic sheds are easy to install as they can be assembled by almost anyone. They not only have little maintenance issues when properly installed but also add value to your home by offering extra storage space for items. However, plastic sheds come in limited shapes and sizes, difficult to customize, hard to secure and can be damaged with very high temperatures.

  • Metal Sheds

Metal sheds are made from steel or galvanized aluminum and the quality may vary depending on the construction. Quality metal sheds are strong, secure, and less prone to rust while cheaper options made from thin panels can be flimsy and less secure. Besides the usual greasing in the door hinges, this type of shed material may require little or no maintenance once it has been assembled. It is not affected by heat, cold, sunlight, or insects, making it highly durable than other shed materials. They come in kits that are pre-cut and pre-drilled, meaning you will not require many tools to assemble them. Unlike plastic, metal sheds lag in terms of appearances but can be powder coated to look clean and neat after installation.

One of the main disadvantages of metal sheds is that they are prone to rust that occurs where the coating wears off. It can be quite difficult to customize and the inside temperatures change quickly with the weather. Since most metal sheds do not have a floor, you may have to lay a well-drained floor to prevent moisture problems.

  • Wood Sheds

Wood might be the best choice for homeowners looking for a custom shed. They are popular in most homes because they can be used as both storage and living spaces when the weather is warm. They are visually appealing and can be painted with different colors to suit your preferences. Unlike metal or plastic sheds, you can easily customize wood according to the style of your home. It is a breathable material and a very good insulator that keeps your shed warm on cold days and cool on hot days. The wood absorbs changes in moisture and temperature changes take more time thus condensation is not a big problem in wooden sheds.

However, they may require more maintenance than other shed materials as well as protection from water. Unlike metal and plastic, wood sheds are prone to rot, molds, and damage from insects. They take a lot of time to construct and may require more tools to assemble compared to metal and plastic sheds.

Owning a weatherproof shed where you can store garden equipment and tools can be a great advantage. Whether you own a plastic, metal, or wooden shed, it provides you with extra storage for better equipment organization. Every type of shed has something unique to offer with potential projects and different possibilities. It is crucial to compare each of the above shed materials to determine the one that best meets your expectations. In most cases, your purchase decision is influenced by how you intend to use the shed. Dedicated garden shops and general retailers offer a wide range of sheds in different colors, styles, and sizes. It is crucial to find out as much information as possible about the shed you intend to buy before you invest your money, to ensure you are purchasing what suits your needs and preferences.

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