Whether you’re someone living in an urban city or you’re the ultimate countryside lover – optimising your backyard space should be a priority. If you’re one of the lucky ones who do have some extra garden space to utilize and beautify, you’re probably here to find out more about garden sheds which can be used for not just storing your tools but also for many different things.
Depending on your needs, you can find garden sheds small in size or large that can be used as a workshop space, playhouse for the kids, an art studio, bicycle garage, etc. There are all kinds of storage sheds inspired by people’s activities and needs. So, they differentiate not just by size but also by the building material, the shape of the roof, their foundation, style, colour, features, etc. But ultimately all of them serve the main purpose of keeping your house, garage and garden clutter-free.
Basic Features of a Garden Shed
The Material
- Metal sheds provide practical, strong and secure storage, perfect for keeping your expensive garden equipment and, at their largest, make a perfect garage. They might have a rougher look but last long, are easy to maintain and could pass without a foundation.
- Timber (wooden) sheds offer more of a down-to-earth style. They might not have the robustness of the steal but wooden sheds blend in perfectly with your natural environment. Wood is also a great insulator, but not recommended in conditions of extreme weather.
- Vinyl (PVC) sheds are lightweight but durable. Vinyl might be too “plastic” for some people’s taste but the latest trends show that designers are moving away from the plastic look and offer more sophisticated and classic looks. Another advantage is that they are usually stain-resistant and UV protected.
The Roof
- A flat roof is perhaps the most commonly used for sheds and as the name suggests, this shed roof style is perfectly flat. But worth noting is that even though this type of roof is flat, there is typically a system that helps water draining. So depending on your geographical location and how much rain you’re getting, pay attention to this.
- The hip style roof is one that includes slopes on each of the four sides of your shed which come together at the top of the peak forming a ridge. Hip style roofs are known to be stable and efficient in withstanding harsh weather.
- The barn-style roof is something I recommend if you want that country vibe with a unique historical look and plenty of extra space for storage.
Do Garden Sheds Need Foundation?
Small garden sheds (1.8 x 2.5m or less) are usually left without a foundation, however, if you prefer longevity – a ground foundation is a must. You need to know that the typical plastic floor that comes with the shed you buy is not a base or foundation. It is only a floor and as such is only as good as the surface it is sitting on. Unless you’re placing the structure on an already existing concrete flooring (or the soil you already have as a base), here are the most common materials people use to build a foundation.
- Gravel Foundation – First, gravel drains water better than a flat concrete pad. In the long run, this will protect the structure under your shed from decaying. Second, it underpins your shed together much better than concrete piers or shed foundation blocks.
- Paving Blocks – You can find pavers in a variety of materials, including concrete and brick, which are suitable for shed foundations. Pavers fit together tightly, allowing you to create a substantial base for your shed. They have to be placed on a perfectly flat and stable surface to be effective.
- A wooden base is the first choice for most smaller garden sheds. It is typically a simple wooden frame, tightened with crossbeams. If you plan on getting a shed larger than 3 x 2.5 m or need to store a lot of heavy equipment, look into a paving slab or concrete base instead.
Space-Optimising Suggestions And Extras to Consider
If you’re strapped for space, take a look at the range of garden sheds small in size but still as useful as ever when optimised with these tips and extras:
Magnetic Bar or Pegboard for Hanging Your Tools
Magnetic strip saves space in your shed; great for small tools, bolts, buts and other metal items. What’s better than an organized plus easy to reach toolbox?
Hangers for Your Hose, Cords, Rope, etc.
Tripping hazards are something you should always be on the lookout for when organizing your workspace, garden or the inside of your home. Hangers can be bought or made at home for cheap. They could be placed on the walls or (if the height of your shed allows) they could hang from the ceiling.
Hangers on the Inside of Your Door
Yes, you guessed it. No space should be left unutilized. And since we’re speaking of your door which is frequently moved around – consider hanging lighter items on it.
Label for Each Section and Container
You’ll thank yourself later, when you need to grab something in urgency, or if there’s anyone else from the family who needs to help themselves in your shed and isn’t too familiar with your style of organising.
Hang Plants (or More Tools) on The Exterior of Your Shed
Not only is this going to save you space but is going to beautify your yard. And if you’re into growing your food, look into what veggies and fruits thrive under your climate and maybe start growing your garden vertically.
Wire Shelving
Using wire shelving will further optimize your space for objects that might not fit or stand on regular shelves. You could use these instead of shelves or have them as fixed-mount wire shelving if you prefer to hang clothes and other similar items.
Look around your garden and find the sweet spot for your new project. Organising space efficiently is a skill we learn and relearn constantly and while for some folks comes naturally you might be struggling with it. So, take your time to do your projects around your house but don’t forget to have fun while shopping. Get inspired and hang your or your best friend’s art projects up, paint your door with crazy neon colours, try growing a garden on the roof, and make sure to give yourself a little TLC also.
