Trying to decide which type of material is best for your storage shed? Here is what you need to know about metal, wood, and plastic sheds.
Metal Sheds: Pros and Cons
Pros
- Least expensive
- Longest lifespan
- Sturdy
- Can’t be damaged by insects
- Fireproof
Cons
- Harder to customize interior than a wooden shed
- Some people prefer the look of wood sheds
- Can rust if not properly maintained
If you are cost conscious, metal sheds give you the most value for your dollar. The main thing you need to do with a metal shed is an annual inspection to make sure there aren’t any spots of rust developing anywhere. If any spots appear, be sure to sand and paint it. If properly maintained, a metal shed can last over 100 years.
You can find small sheds at your local home improvement store or online. If you need a large shed that is 12’x20’ or larger, here at Alan’s Factory Outlet we sell full custom metal sheds at incredible prices, and all our sheds come with free installation and delivery. The only things to note is that delivery will probably take several weeks or more and a building permit may be required for a large shed.
Wood Sheds: Pros and Cons
Pros
- Nice appearance
- Sturdy
- No rust issues
Cons
- Most expensive
- Can rot
- Can be damaged by insects
- Not fire-resistant
If cost is not an issue and visual appearance is your primary concern, then a wood shed may be a good choice for your yard or garden. (Our metal sheds can be customized with 16 different colors, but a wood shed comes with unlimited possibilities in color and style.)
If you want a wood shed that is insect resistant, consider using cedar, since cedar oil is a natural insect repellant. To help protect the base your shed from rot, be sure to put it on a good shed foundation.
Plastic Sheds: Pros and Cons
Pros
- Easy to install
- No rust issues
- Can’t be damaged by insects
- Easy to move
Cons
- Ugly
- Color fades over time
- Flimsy
- Can’t customize
- Not environmentally friendly
Plastic sheds (also called vinyl sheds) are basically a quick and simple storage option. You can pick one up at Home Depot or Lowe and assemble it in few hours. But if it isn’t an instant eye-sore when you buy it, it probably will become one over time. And when you finally want to get rid of it, there aren’t any environmentally friendly ways to dispose of it.
In my opinion, a plastic shed is a poor choice for a shed. A metal shed will cost less, last way longer, look nicer, and won’t get blown over in a windstorm. So I always recommend metal sheds over plastic sheds.
