When looking for a storage shed or outdoor storage building, you will soon realize how many options you have to choose from. One of the most popular options is a shed kit. A shed kit allows the best of both worlds – it contains pre-cut materials and instructions and allows the avid do-it-yourself to build the shed themselves. This article will look at the different types of shed kits available, outline their pros and cons, and provide some alternatives if you decide a shed kit may not be the best choice for you. For more information about outdoor portable buildings, contact the experts at Dutch Country Sheds now!
What Type Of Shed Kit Is Best For You?
Deciding on the right shed kit for you can seem overwhelming at first. Each type of shed will vary in price, storage capabilities, the skill required to build it, and more. See below for details about wood, metal, and plastic shed kits to help you decide which one is right for you, your home, and your lifestyle!
Metal Shed Kits
Description: Metal sheds, bought either as a pre-built shed or a shed kit, have been a popular backyard storage option for quite some time. Metal shed kits are not as common are pre-built metal sheds. However, steel shed kits are becoming more popular and some are even easy to order online. They are best suited for those who simply need to store outdoor tools or equipment such as leaf blowers or lawn mowers.
Pros: Metal shed kits are cost-effective and relatively easy to assemble, as they are typically lightweight and come with simple parts. A high-quality metal shed will last for many years. Metal sheds require little maintenance and you won’t have to worry about your shed withstanding extreme temperatures!
Cons: Metal sheds are prone to rust, which can become a bigger problem in humid or wet environments. Metal sheds are very difficult to customize – you should be happy with your shed as-is if you choose a metal kit. Metal sheds also lack the aesthetic appeal that other shed options have.
Ideal For: Metal sheds are a great choice for those who want a cost-effective storage solution that requires little maintenance.
Budget: $ – $$ Security: ★★★ Storage Capabilities: ★★ 1/2
Average Sizes Available: Small Type Of Yard: Any; well suited for smaller yards
Wooden Shed Kits
Image source: Scott Tennant, geograph.org.uk
Description: Wooden sheds are still one of the most popular storage options for both homes and commercial properties. Wooden sheds, including sheds built from shed kits, have a more traditional and rustic look that many homeowners prefer. Though all shed kits come with instructions and try to make the process easy for everyone involved, building a wooden shed may be a bit more challenging than other options. However, once built, you can use a wooden shed for a wide variety of purposes: from storage to a “man-cave” to an art room, or more!
Pros: As mentioned above, wood sheds will last a very long time (though sheds built from a shed kit may have a shorter lifespan than a high-quality pre-fab shed). Wooden shed kits come in more sizes and styles than plastic or metal kits. You also have significantly more customization options when working with a wooden shed kit – you can customize along the way or choose to add on later. A wooden shed can also be aesthetically pleasing and even add value to your property.
Cons: Wood requires more maintenance than any other material, so it’s important to keep maintenance costs and time in mind! Without proper maintenance, you may find that your shed has rotted, or become home to unwanted pests and rodents. Wooden sheds do typically require more assembly time and skill to build. You may also have to deal with minor imperfections in the wood.
Ideal For: Wooden sheds are ideal for those who would like to customize their shed and would like a higher security storage option.
Budget: $$$ – $$$$ Security: ★★★★★ Storage Capabilities: ★★★★★
Average Sizes Available: Small – Large Type Of Yard: Any; well suited for large yards
Plastic (Vinyl) Shed Kits
Image source: 10×20 Vinyl Manor by SirLogic, wikimedia.org
Description: Plastic sheds are one of the newest types of sheds available. Plastic shed kits are not as common as wooden or metal kits and therefore may be more difficult to find. However, vinyl shed kits are becoming more popular and can often be found for sale online. Vinyl sheds are attractive and many mimic the appearance of traditional wooden sheds.
Pros: Plastic sheds are a cost-effective storage solution without compromising aesthetic appeal. Vinyl is virtually maintenance free – you won’t have to worry about rot, rust, or pests. Most plastic sheds are easy to assemble and requires little prior construction knowledge. Plastic is also weatherproof and a well-made shed can last a long time.
Cons: Plastic sheds lack the security and strength you would find with other options. Though they are weatherproof, extreme temperatures can warp or damage the material. Like metal sheds, plastic sheds are difficult to customize. If you choose a plastic shed, you should be happy with it as-is.
Ideal For: Plastic sheds are ideal for those who want a virtually maintenance-free backyard storage option.
Budget: $ – $$ Security: ★★ Storage Capabilities: ★★★
Average Sizes Available: Small – Medium Type Of Yard: Any; well suited for smaller yards
Alternative Options For Storage
If you are still unsure if a shed kit is the right choice for you and would like to know about other options, see the list below for a listing of other popular storage options available for you.
Public Storage
Public storage is a popular choice for those who do not have space in their yard to store their items. Public storage can be a good short-term solution if you are in between homes or need a secure place to store valuables, fragile items, or other home items that may be damaged by extreme temperatures. However, public storage costs can add up over time. Public storage is also the least convenient storage method, as you do not have instant access to your items.
Build From Scratch
Those who love DIYing may decide that a shed kit is too structured for them. Many choose to completely build their shed from scratch. This option allows you to have full control over the entire process as well as the finished product. If you are an experienced handyman, it may be a cost-effective solution. However, if you are not experienced with tools or construction, you may end up with a poorly built shed that will cost more down the road to maintain and repair. Building from scratch also requires a lot of work, effort, and time.
Prefab Sheds
Lofted Garden Barn by Dutch Country Sheds
Purchasing an already built (prefab) shed can help save you a lot of time and energy. If any amount of DIY sounds like too much for you, a prefab shed may be the perfect choice. A high-quality, wooden prefab shed can last a lifetime and add value to your property. Wooden prefab sheds are also easy to customize and come in a wide variety of sizes, from extra small to extra large! Though a well-built prefab shed will typically cost more upfront, you won’t have to worry about maintenance or repairs down the road. At Dutch Country Sheds, we also offer a Rent-To-Own program, so you can own a beautiful wooden shed without paying for public storage!
Ready For Your Storage Shed?
If you are ready to purchase storage building but can’t decide if a prefab shed or a kit is right for you, feel free to contact Dutch Country Sheds now to learn more! A high-quality wooden storage shed can be the solution you’ve been looking for.
We even have a Rent-To-Own option to make it easy for you to own your very own shed today! Dutch Country Sheds is committed to both affordability and high-quality structures.
We take the time to listen to our customers and help them choose the best design for their particular needs and budget. We are always happy to answer any questions you may have.
We are so confident in the high quality of our product that we offer a 5-year blanket warranty.
Our 5-year blanket warranty covers any defect in workmanship, lumber, and products, including the function of the product. Dutch Country Sheds are made to last – we guarantee it with our 5-year warranty!
“Your company produces such a quality storage building! You can tell that quality went into it because quality just shines through it. Even the delivery was a class act. All of you do a great job.”
– Rick Franklin, a Classic Buildings Customer – More Testimonials Here!
Ready To Find Your Dream Shed?
Sources:
Zac’s Garden – Plastic Sheds / Zac’s Garden – Wood Sheds / Zac’s Garden – Metal Sheds
