by Dakota Storage Buildings, on June 26, 2024
When a homeowner first decides to add an outdoor storage shed to their property, it is common for them to misjudge the volume of items they need to store. This often results in choosing a shed that is too small. This miscalculation can restrict storage capabilities, leading to the inconvenience of overcrowded spaces and the likelihood of needing expensive expansions in the future. You may be asking yourself, “What size storage shed do I need?” We want to guide you through the various shed sizes available — from compact small outdoor storage sheds to spacious extra-large ones. We will provide insights into which size might best suit your specific storage, shed organization requirements, and the available space in your yard, ensuring you make a well-informed decision that prevents future regrets and maximizes your investment right from the start.
Small, Medium, or Large: Which Shed Size Is Right for You?
Understanding the various dimensions and capacities of shed sizes — from small to large — can greatly help you choose a solution that perfectly matches both your storage demands and the available space in your yard.
Small Sheds
Small outdoor storage sheds are typically around 6 x 8 or 8 x 10 feet and are ideal for storing essential garden tools, seasonal decorations, or sports equipment. Their compact footprint allows them to fit into smaller yards or gardens easily, making them an excellent choice for homeowners with limited space. Besides their practicality, small sheds help maintain a neat and orderly appearance in your outdoor area, preventing it from feeling cluttered or overrun by storage needs.
Medium Sheds
Medium sheds range from 8 x 12 to 9 x 12 feet and strike a perfect balance between space and functionality. They offer sufficient room to house larger items such as lawnmowers, bicycles, and sizable gardening tools, but they do not dominate the landscape of your outdoor living space. Medium sheds are often the go-to choice for those who need more storage capacity than what a small outdoor storage shed can provide but do not have the requirements or space for a large structure.
Large Sheds
For individuals who require substantial shed organization space, large sheds are the ideal solution. These units start at 9 x 12 feet and can be much larger. They are well-suited for storing bulky items such as patio furniture and large gardening equipment or even serving as a spacious workshop for hobbies and crafts. They provide an excellent opportunity to clean out your garage and store significant items like snow blowers, large power tools, and multiple bicycles, ensuring everything is easily accessible yet out of sight and keeping your living spaces and garage clean and organized.
Strategically Selecting the Perfect Shed Size
Selecting appropriate storage shed sizes is an essential decision that involves evaluating your storage needs against the constraints and opportunities of your property.
Determine What You Will Store
Start by making a comprehensive list of items you intend to store in the shed. This list might include garden tools, lawn equipment, bicycles, seasonal decorations, or even outdoor furniture during the off-season. For those with larger items such as lawn tractors or significant future purchases like a snowmobile, initially opting for a larger shed might be a smart move. Consider the volume and type of items you need to store carefully — opting for slightly more space than you currently require can save you the inconvenience and cost of upgrading to a larger shed later as your storage needs grow.
Assess Your Budget and Space Constraints
Before choosing storage shed sizes, carefully assess the available space in your yard. It is important to ensure that the shed will fit comfortably within your landscape without overwhelming it or violating any local zoning laws or homeowners association rules. The shed should complement your yard's aesthetics and functionality rather than detract from it. Additionally, a realistic budget should be established that considers not only the purchase cost but also factors in the durability and maintenance requirements of the materials. Investing in a quality shed can add significant value to your property and provide a reliable storage solution for years to come.
Why Most Customers Wish They Chose Bigger Sheds
According to our 2024 Customer Survey, 28% of our customers later wished they had opted for a larger shed, emphasizing a frequent tendency to underestimate storage needs. On the other hand, only about 1% expressed a preference for a smaller shed after purchase. This trend highlights the importance of carefully considering future storage requirements to avoid the need for a costly and disruptive upgrade. These insights suggest that when in doubt, it may be wiser to choose a shed with a bit more space than you currently envision needing, ensuring you will not quickly outgrow the space.
Maximizing Potential With Extra Large Sheds
Extra-large sheds provide invaluable solutions for those who need ample storage space or desire a substantial area for various activities or hobbies.
Increase Storage Space
Extra-large sheds are exceptionally spacious, making them ideal for storing vehicles such as cars, boats, or large pieces of machinery that would not fit in smaller sheds. They can also accommodate extensive collections of tools, seasonal equipment like snowmobiles, or landscaping gear like ride-on mowers. For those who enjoy crafts or mechanical work, these sheds can also be transformed into workshops, providing ample space to work on large projects or store bulky materials. This makes them an excellent choice for hobbyists, gardeners, or professionals looking for a dedicated area to manage their activities efficiently.
Versatility and Future Expansion
One of the significant advantages of opting for an extra-large shed is its versatility and potential for future expansion. As your needs grow — whether due to acquiring more tools, starting new hobbies or simply needing more space — an extra-large shed can be adapted to meet these changing requirements. It offers the flexibility to divide the space, add shed organization shelving and storage solutions, or even accommodate new functions, such as an office or a studio. This adaptability makes it a long-term investment that can continuously provide value, adjusting as your lifestyle or interests evolve over time.
A Step-by-Step Guide to Choosing a Backyard Shed
Choosing the correct storage shed sizes is an investment in your property's functionality and aesthetic appeal. Selecting the right shed ensures that your outdoor space is enhanced, your belongings are efficiently organized, and everything is protected from the elements. When considering your options, think about what you need to store now and what space you might need in the future. Often, opting for a slightly larger shed than is currently necessary can save you the hassle and expense of upgrading later as your storage needs grow.
Ready to transform your backyard with the ideal shed? Our free "Shed Buying Workbook" is packed with comprehensive insights to guide you through the buying process. This valuable resource will help you assess your needs, understand different shed options, and find the perfect shed for you. Download the workbook today and start your journey toward a more organized and functional outdoor space. Make your shed buying experience as informed and seamless as possible with our “Shed Buying Workbook.”
