by Dakota Storage Buildings, on August 05, 2024
If you find yourself running out of space to store your belongings, you are certainly not alone. Many of us seek efficient storage solutions that do not compromise our home's aesthetics — a backyard or garden shed offers just that. Whether you need extra room for DIY projects, sports gear, gardening tools, or general storage, a well-chosen outdoor storage shed can make all the difference. Choosing between plastic and wood plays can have a huge impact on the appearance, durability, and functionality of your shed.
Plastic storage sheds that you assemble at home, offer a quick, cost-effective solution. Meanwhile, pre-built wooden sheds can be delivered right to your site, are sturdier, and add a traditional charm. Each material comes with its own set of advantages and challenges, making it essential to weigh the long-term benefits against the initial costs. Deciding on the right shed involves considering how it will serve you, not just today, but for years.
Choosing Between Plastic and Wooden Sheds: What You Need to Know
Plastic sheds and wooden sheds each come with their unique benefits and drawbacks, making it crucial to consider what best suits your lifestyle and aesthetic preferences. Let’s look at the specifics of each to help you make an informed decision.
Why Choose Plastic Sheds?
Plastic storage sheds are made from polymers that are commonly used and inexpensive. These outdoor storage sheds are highly easy to manufacture, and the material is not expensive, so the cost of these sheds will be lower. Many people choose plastic because they are so inexpensive, but there are other factors to consider. They have some advantages, but they also come with a lot of drawbacks as well.
One of the significant appeals of plastic sheds is that they are resistant to pests like termites along with rot, mold, and moisture damage. These sheds also maintain their integrity against harsh weather conditions, like extreme temperatures and rainfall, which makes them a durable choice in diverse climates. Their lightweight nature makes them easy to relocate if needed, offering flexibility when it comes to managing your outdoor space. Their non-corrosive materials ensure that these sheds remain free from rust and decay, enhancing their longevity even in coastal or highly humid environments.
Many homeowners’ associations do not allow plastic sheds because they do not have the same aesthetic appeal as a wooden shed and tend to show wear relatively quickly. Plastic may look as inexpensive as they are, and this can make people want to hide them rather than show them off. The plastic material also stains easily, especially when you store chemicals like oils inside. While these sheds will not rot or break down, they can get cracked and chipped. The inexpensive material often means that they will not last that long, especially with heavy use. An investment in a plastic shed may be cheaper, but it will not look as good as one made of higher-quality materials or last as long.
In general, plastic storage sheds are not customizable. As a result, the layout may not be the best use of space for the items you need to store. Even after you buy a plastic shed, it is difficult to add any customization elements because they will not stand up to additions like shelving. Due to their lack of customization, these sheds may end up holding fewer items than a wood shed of the same size.
Plastic sheds are usually put together by the purchaser rather than constructed by the manufacturer. This can be a difficult task to complete, and it can lead to complications if the shed is not put together properly. Tightening a screw too tightly may result in a crack that can cause problems throughout the life of the shed.
Ideal Uses for Plastic Sheds
Plastic sheds are particularly appealing for those looking for an immediate, low-cost storage solution. They serve well for storing garden tools, seasonal decorations, and sports equipment. However, the lack of customization can be a drawback for those needing specialized storage solutions or those looking to enhance the aesthetic appeal of their outdoor space. Additionally, the uniform design and limited color options may not blend well with every home's exterior, potentially making these sheds less desirable for homeowners with specific visual preferences. Despite these limitations, their ease of assembly and maintenance-free nature continue to make them a popular choice for casual storage needs.
While plastic sheds offer a practical and economical storage option, their aesthetic limitations and durability issues may require careful consideration. Homeowners should weigh these factors against their specific needs and local regulations to determine if a plastic shed is the right choice for their garden or backyard.
Why Choose On-Site Sheds?
Wooden sheds are highly valued for their durability and aesthetic appeal, making them a popular choice for homeowners seeking a storage solution. Wood sheds are typically constructed from high-quality materials. Their natural appearance tends to blend seamlessly with garden environments, making them an integral part of the landscape rather than just a storage unit.
Wooden sheds allow you to choose between a pre-built option or customizing a shed to your specific needs. Many wooden sheds have a great deal of room for customization. This option can help you use the space inside better and to have more efficient storage in less space. Personalizing a custom shed can include everything from adding windows and shelving to choosing the door and trim color. There are many ways that a custom outdoor storage shed can be configured and built so that it meets the buyer’s storage needs.
An on-site, pre-built shed is constructed of quality materials and then delivered to the buyer’s backyard. These sheds tend to be allowed by most homeowner associations (HOAs) for their dependability, long life, and good looks. Having durable materials and sturdy construction often means that they are a good investment for those who need extra storage. The upfront cost may be higher than a plastic shed, but it will last much longer. These sheds often come with long warranties. If repairs are ever needed, they are much easier to apply.
Once you have an on-site shed that is well-constructed, you can always add features to it if you ever decide to. You might get a custom shed with a number of useful shelves and later find that you need more shelving. With these sheds, you can install new shelves, hooks, and other organization methods without a problem. They are built to be durable and tough, so they also tend to be great for decorating to look any way you choose. Many people also add landscaping around them to elevate their backyard.
The durability and longevity of any garden shed depend on both the method of construction and the quality of the materials used. With sheds built on-site, effort is put into it to make it have both high-quality materials and construction. These sheds often come with long warranties, even when it’s a custom shed. And if repairs are ever needed, they’re much easier to apply. With a plastic shed, repairs are often impossible because the materials are weaker and more brittle.
The appeal of wooden sheds often lies in their aesthetic appeal and the capacity for customization. However, wooden sheds do come with some drawbacks that potential buyers should consider. One of the primary concerns is their vulnerability to pests like termites and other wood-boring insects if not properly treated. Regular maintenance is required to keep wooden sheds in good condition, including periodic staining or painting to prevent weathering and decay. Wooden sheds are usually more expensive upfront than plastic sheds. Despite their aesthetic and functional advantages, these factors make wooden sheds a more significant investment and one that requires ongoing attention to maintain their condition and appearance.
Wooden Sheds for Every Backyard
Wooden sheds cater to those who value aesthetics as much as functionality. They are ideal for homeowners looking for durable storage solutions that complement their garden or backyard landscape. Whether it is for storing garden tools, creating a workshop, or even designing a cozy retreat, wooden sheds are a flexible and attractive option. The ability to add features over time, such as extra shelving or decorative elements, makes these outdoor storage sheds particularly appealing to those planning long-term investments in their outdoor spaces.
Wooden sheds stand out for their durability, aesthetic appeal, and potential for customization, making them a practical option for anyone looking to enhance their outdoor storage solutions.
Evaluating Shed Costs
When you are planning to invest in a new shed for your backyard, it is crucial to consider both your immediate needs and long-term expectations. Initially, the cost of a plastic shed may appear more appealing due to its lower upfront price. However, these costs reflect the quality and customization potential of the materials and construction.
Initial Investment
Plastic storage sheds generally offer a cost-effective entry point with lower prices due to mass production and cheaper materials. On the other hand, wooden sheds built on-site, involve higher upfront costs. This is due to the use of higher-quality materials and the labor involved in their construction, which often allows for extensive customization according to your preferences and needs.
Long-Term Costs
Over time, the investment in a wooden shed can prove more economical. Wooden sheds typically require some maintenance, such as painting and pest treatment, but these costs are often offset by their longer lifespan and the ability to repair and update components easily. Plastic sheds, while requiring minimal maintenance, may need complete replacement sooner due to issues like UV damage, cracking, and less resistance to extreme weather conditions, potentially leading to higher cumulative costs in the long run.
Durability and Upkeep of Plastic vs. Wooden Sheds
Plastic storage sheds are resistant to pests, mold, and moisture, making them a good choice for homeowners in humid or pest-prone areas looking for a maintenance-free option. The material's non-corrosive properties also prevent deterioration from rust, which is beneficial in coastal climates. However, plastic sheds do have significant drawbacks. They are particularly susceptible to damage over time from environmental factors. Prolonged exposure to UV light can cause the plastic to become brittle and discolored, leading to a noticeable decline in aesthetics and structural integrity. This degradation reduces the shed’s lifespan and functionality, as cracks and staining can make the sheds less secure and more unsightly compared to more durable materials like wood.
Wooden sheds built on-site are constructed with a focus on durability and long-term use. They are built from high-quality materials that, when treated properly, are capable of withstanding the severe weather of various climates. This makes them a reliable and sturdy option for storing everything from garden tools to heavier equipment. However, wooden sheds require regular maintenance to retain their appearance and structural integrity. If not regularly treated with stains or protective coatings, wood can be susceptible to pests like termites and susceptible to weather-related damage such as rot, mold, and warping.
Customization and Aesthetic Appeal
With plastic storage sheds, the customization options are generally limited. They typically come in pre-determined designs and sizes that might not fit every homeowner's specific needs or preferences. This can be a challenge for those looking to integrate these structures seamlessly into their landscaping or those who have specific space requirements. Aesthetically, these sheds may not always align with every homeowner's vision or the standards of certain communities, leading to potential conflicts with HOA regulations. This limitation can make it challenging for homeowners to use these sheds as anything more than basic storage solutions.
Wooden sheds, on the other hand, offer extensive customization opportunities that greatly appeal to homeowners looking to create a more personalized space. From the interior layout to exterior features like windows, trim, and color, the options are nearly limitless. This level of flexibility allows homeowners to design a shed that fits perfectly with their specific storage needs and enhances their property’s curb appeal. This adaptability often makes wooden sheds more favorable in the eyes of HOAs, as they can be crafted to comply with community standards and architectural guidelines. This capacity for customization makes wooden sheds not just practical storage solutions but also valuable additions to properties, potentially increasing the home's value.
Self-Assembly Challenges vs. Professional Installation
Assembling plastic sheds usually falls to the purchaser. While it allows for a potentially quick setup, improper assembly can lead to long-term issues like misalignment and leaks, which may compromise the shed's integrity and functionality. The tools and skills required for assembly may vary, and without proper tools or understanding, the setup process can be frustrating and time-consuming. Since plastic sheds are not typically anchored as wooden sheds, they may be less stable and more susceptible to damage from high winds or heavy weather.
Wooden sheds are typically constructed by professionals and delivered on-site, ready for immediate use. This process ensures a high level of build quality and significantly reduces the homeowner's burden, ensuring that the outdoor storage shed is both functional and structurally sound from the beginning. The professional installation also means that the shed can be seamlessly integrated into the landscape, with considerations made for the best placement in terms of aesthetics and functionality. The durability and robust construction of professionally built sheds often come with warranties or guarantees, offering homeowners peace of mind regarding their investment.
Evaluating Usability and Storage Capacity
While adequate for lightweight storage needs such as holding yard tools or seasonal decorations, plastic sheds often lack the structural capacity to support heavier items or extensive shelving. This makes them less ideal for storing large power tools, bicycles, or bulky garden equipment. The design of plastic sheds typically offers limited options for internal organization, which can lead to clutter and inefficient use of space. The material's flexibility underweight also means that, over time, heavier objects might cause deformation or sagging.
Pre-built or custom wooden sheds can be tailored to a variety of uses, from heavy-duty storage to workshops or even as additional living spaces. The ability to customize shelving, hooks, and workspace areas allows homeowners to maximize the utility of their shed, creating highly organized and efficient storage or work areas. This versatility allows wooden sheds to be designed and finished to complement the home's exterior. Whether it is adding insulation for a cozy workshop, implementing robust security features for valuable equipment, or designing a quaint garden retreat, wooden sheds offer substantial flexibility that can meet a wide range of specific needs and personal tastes.
Invest in Longevity With Quality Wooden Sheds
Investing in a quality wooden shed is about enhancing long-term value and functionality. The best outdoor storage sheds serve a dual purpose: they meet practical storage needs while simultaneously elevating the aesthetic and financial value of your home.
Boost Your Property’s Market Value
Viewed as permanent and robust additions, these sheds contribute positively to a property's overall appeal, often integrating seamlessly with the home's architectural style or landscaping. This harmonious integration boosts the property's curb appeal, which is a critical factor in elevating the home's market value. The durable nature of wooden sheds ensures they remain valuable features over time, contributing to the property’s long-term investment potential. When it comes time to sell, a well-maintained, aesthetically pleasing wooden shed can be a compelling feature for potential buyers, increasing the property's attractiveness on the market and enabling homeowners to command a higher selling price.
Maximize Your Property's Functionality
Over time, the benefits of investing in a well-constructed on-site shed become apparent. These structures can adapt to changing needs, from storage to personal spaces, offering long-term functionality and flexibility. Whether you need a quiet office space, a crafty workshop, or simply more room to store seasonal gear, sheds built on-site can be customized and re-customized to fit evolving lifestyles and requirements. The construction allows for modifications such as additional shelving, upgraded security systems, or climate control features, making these sheds a practical solution for various needs. This adaptability means that the space can continually provide value, enhancing your living environment and lifestyle.
The Ultimate Guide to Choosing Your Next Shed
While plastic storage sheds may offer an initial low-cost and low-maintenance option, on-site wooden sheds provide superior durability, customization, and aesthetic appeal, making them a worthwhile long-term investment. Investing in a pre-built or custom wooden shed not only meets immediate storage needs but also contributes to the overall aesthetics and utility of your property for years to come. Homeowners should carefully consider their specific needs and the potential long-term value of their shed choice. To help you make the best decision, we encourage you to download our comprehensive Shed Buying Workbook. This resource is designed to guide you through the various considerations and help you match your needs with the best outdoor storage sheds, ensuring that you make an informed and beneficial investment.
