Storage Shed Types

There are several varying types of materials used in the construction of storage sheds, we have chosen to focus on three.

Wood

Wood is a very popular choice and is one of the cheapest, mostly because it requires the most ongoing maintanance. Some types of wood contain natural resins, which make them resistant to rot. Your wood storage shed needs to be treated for protection against the elements, bugs, moisture, etc. Wood can rot easily, so it's definitely advisable that you put it on a solid concrete foundation away from flooded areas. You do not want it to be touching the ground in case you have termites around. Particle wood and plywood are popular materials used. Many people will use a wood that is natural to their area, mostly because its easier to find thus making it cheaper to buy.

Vinyl

Vinyl sheds are probably the most popular and most versitle option available. You can walk into any home improvement store and find vinyl storage buildings in every size, color and style imaginable. This is for good reason; they are easy to assemble and require practially no maintenance. Vinyl sheds are the most expensive option available since you can buy them preconstructed in your chosen color and set them up instantly in your backyard there's pretty much no hassle. You can put these on concrete foundations but wouldn't have to as long as your ground base is flat and won't sink. We still recommend avoiding low lying areas that collect water, but most of the vinyl sheds can resist the elements and all insects. These sheds are often fade and weatherproof, they will never rust, rot, mildew or require seasonal application of sealant or paint.

One drawback may be the aesthetics. Vinyl can look cheaper if the moldings aren't high class. If your house has vinyl siding you'd be advised to get a storage shed in a matching or complementary color.

I've seen tiny little sheds that sit on the back step to hold kids toys, all the way up to large 18x30 units that are turned into mini shops and hobby rooms in addition to storing a variety of household items (from leftover junk to garden equipment). The possibilities are limitless.

Metal

Metal storage sheds are great as a storage shed, tool shed or utility shed. Metal sheds are usually constructed from galvanized steel that can withstand high temperatures in the summer or aluminum. Metal buildings can withstand elements such as storms, high winds, rain and snow not to mention various insects including termites (a drawback to wood sheds). Many owners double their metal buildings as small workshops and hobby rooms. For the do-it yourselfers you can get a metal building kit, or a prefab metal building from lots of online metal building manufacturers. Any metal storage shed can be made to look aesthetically pleasing by combining the metal building with other conventional materials. If you are intending to use this shed as more of a room or work area, you may want to avoid it during storms. The metal can attract lightning and I know from experience that hail will sound twice as loud and be twice as annoying when hitting a metal storage shed. If your metal shed is dull and boring you can increase the visual appeal of metal storage shed by using paints that can be applied, polyester enamel finishes that resemble wood, or even vinyl coating.