Garden Shed: how to Choose the Best Model for Your Outdoor Space

When it comes to optimizing your outdoor space, a garden shed can be an invaluable addition. Offering both functional and aesthetic value, a well-chosen garden shed can serve as a storage space, a workshop, or even a year-round living area. But with the plethora of options available in the market today, how do you choose the right one ? From materials and usage to size and design, this guide will take you through all the essential factors you need to consider when choosing a garden shed.

Understanding Materials: wood, metal or Resin for Your Garden Shed

The Pros and Cons of Different Materials

In terms of construction materials for your garden shed, there are three main choices: wood, metal, and resin. Each comes with its own set of benefits and drawbacks that make them suitable for different contexts.

• Wood : Known for its durability and eco-friendly nature, wood offers a warm aesthetic appeal that’s hard to beat. However it requires regular maintenance to preserve its qualities.
• Metal : While not as aesthetically pleasing as wood, metal is extremely durable and requires little maintenance. On the downside, metal sheds can be prone to rusting if not properly treated.
• Resin : A strong candidate due to its robustness and waterproof properties. However, while functional resin might lack the charm of wooden options.

Naturally moving from our discussion on material choice we come to consider another important aspect – what will your shed be used for ?

Determining the Use of Your Garden Shed According to Your Needs

Identifying Your Primary Usage Needs

The intended use of your garden shed plays an integral role in your decision-making process. For instance, if you’re planning on using it for storage, a basic design with sturdy shelves might be all you need. However, if you’re thinking of using the shed as a workshop or even as a year-round living area, then considerations like insulation, electrical wiring and natural light become crucial.

From this discussion on usage needs, we now move onto another key factor – size and design.

Choosing the Right Size and Design for a Harmonious Shed

Finding the Perfect Fit

The size of your garden shed should align with its intended use. Small surfaces (up to 5 m²) are suitable for tool storage, while sheds of 5 to 10 m² offer more storage options for bulkier equipment. Likewise if the shed is intended to be used as living space or large workshop, larger sizes will be required.

With size sorted out let’s delve into an equally important element – wall thickness.

Wall Thickness: an Essential Criterion for Durability

The Importance of Wall Thickness

In terms of durability and sturdiness, wall thickness is an aspect that cannot be overlooked when choosing your garden shed. Suppliers offer models with wall thicknesses ranging from 19 mm up to 70 mm. A thickness of 19 mm is considered minimal and only suitable for flooring and ceiling, not walls. A 28 to 34mm thick wall is recommended for a storage shed whereas at least 48mm is advised for garages or social sheds.

Now that we’ve got the walls covered, let’s look at some finishing touches.

Indispensable Finishes: roofing, options and Accessories

The Final Touches

The finishing touches on your garden shed can make a world of difference in both its functionality and aesthetics. Considerations include roofing materials, windows for natural light, ventilation systems for air circulation and shelving or other storage options.

Lastly, but by no means least, we need to consider maintenance and after-sales conditions to ensure longevity.

Maintenance and After-Sales Conditions: ensuring the Longevity of Your Purchase

Maintaining Your Investment

Regular maintenance is necessary regardless of the material you choose. For wood sheds this might mean annual treatment whereas metal or resin sheds might require less frequent care. It’s also worth checking what kind of after-sales support the supplier offers before making a purchase.

To summarise, choosing an ideal garden shed involves considering various factors such as wall thickness, construction material, intended use and size. Furthermore, it’s essential to think about finishes that add functional value as well as regular maintenance to prolong the life span of your investment. So take your time, do your research and most importantly envision how your new shed will enhance your outdoor space. Happy shopping !