A shed is such a practical part of any garden, providing storage space for tools, bikes, outdoor toys and a wealth of other things. Different designs mean you can choose a big or small shed – with or without windows – making them incredibly versatile. The classic wooden shed is a popular addition to many outside spaces, but this type of shed doesn’t suit everyone.
So, what are the alternatives? Well, you may be surprised to learn that there are plenty of other options satisfying all budgets and uses.
Let’s take a look at the best alternatives to a wooden shed.
Brick sheds
If you feel that a wooden shed is too flimsy and needs too much maintenance, then you may be looking for a much more solid structure. This makes a brick shed a good alternative to wood.
You can design it to match the character of your home and build it to the exact size you need. Building a brick shed from scratch allows you to put windows and doors where you want them and deck the inside out with a concrete floor and built-in shelves.
This type of shed will also keep valuable items such as bikes, mowers and power tools secure inside.
Although it may not be a large structure, building a brick shed is best left to a skilled builder to make sure it’s properly constructed. This means you’ll need to budget for both materials and labor costs, but the outcome should be worth the money.
Metal sheds
Another good alternative is a metal shed. Although they’re not as common in gardens as wooden sheds, they have a lot of plus points. Not only are they easy to construct, but they’re incredibly durable.
So, apart from the odd lick of paint, there’s very little maintenance. Many can be put up without a concrete foundation, making them a practical choice for DIYers and easy to move to a different spot when you fancy a change around in the garden.
Metal sheds are generally an affordable option for those on a tight budget, and they’re less of a fire hazard than wooden sheds too.
That’s not to say there are no downsides to metal sheds. Most metal sheds are made from galvanized steel to make them durable, but the type of coating and the number of protective layers they have can vary. And some can be flimsy. This means you’ll need to do your research to find a good quality brand.
Plastic sheds
Plastic may seem like an odd choice for a shed, but it’s a popular material because of its practicality. Plastic sheds are quick and easy to construct and barely need any maintenance apart from a wipe-over now and again.
There are some compromises with plastic sheds, including their level of security and their strength. Plus, they’re not really customizable in the same way that a wooden shed is. But, for those that don’t have the time and skills to erect a traditional style of the shed, a plastic version is a great option.
To get the best plastic shed for your needs, there are a few features you can look for. As some plastic is susceptible to hot and cold temperatures, you want a model that’s weatherproof and UV resistant. This prevents it from fading and becoming brittle.
You should also check it has a well-thought-out design, so it’s not a faff to put up and can be constructed without buying special tools. Some models come with a metal frame, so they don’t warp and remain strong. So, that’s something you may want to consider.
Composite sheds
Finally, if you like the look of a wooden shed but the maintenance is too much for you, a composite shed could be the answer. This alternative material is a wood and resin mix. It creates a durable yet attractive shed that mimics the traditional tongue and groove look of wooden sheds.
Composite materials are already popular for weatherboarding, exterior doors, and garden decking, so it’s no surprise that this material is a good option for sheds.
They come in a range of shapes and colors, so you can pick a style that suits you. And as it’s durable, you won’t need to worry about slapping on annual coats of paint to keep it in good condition. This saves you time and money.
However, once you’ve chosen a color, it’s not easy to change. So, pick wisely!