For folks who are in the market for a new backyard storage shed, there are three main material types to consider which are wood sheds, plastic sheds, or metal sheds.
Each type of shed offers different pros and cons which we will discover below to help determine which type of shed will benefit you the most.
1) Wooden Backyard Sheds
Some of the more impressive looking sheds are made of wood, whether they come pre-build or are constructed from scratch using plans. They can come in many shapes and styles ranging from flat roof top or the classic barn-style gambrel roof design. In most cases when building yourself, a wood shed can also be built to match the exact decor of the house.
A shed made from wood is the more sturdy choice when considering it’s heavier than ones made from plastic or metal and will hold up much better in high winds. Especially if set on a foundation.
While going with this type of shed is the more expensive choice, unless folks take on a do-it-yourself job with quality DIY shed plans, in the end it results in the most impressive and appealing shed one can have in their backyard.
2) Plastic Backyard Sheds (Vinyl)
When a pre-built wood shed does not fit in the budget, a good second option many go with is one made of plastic.
These sheds can cost hundreds less, even thousands, and some of the newer models made by Lifetime offer a modern two-toned look and feel instead of the old plain monotone look.
Plastic sheds come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and colors, and can be put up much quicker than a wood shed. Plastic sheds also hold up better to the elements and are much less prone to deteriorate. They are also not subject to damage from pests like termites or carpenter ants like some untreated woods sheds are.
The only disadvantage a shed made of plastic has is that they weight much lighter than wooden ones and are prone to shaking or topping over in high gusty storms, so creating a good anchor point is recommended, (although some shaking may still occur).
Overall, a good choice to good with when requiring something more wallet friendly.
3) Metal Backyard Sheds
Another option besides plastic is going with a plain metal shed. Although “plain” is probably what you’ll want to avoid since metal sheds tend to rot the fastest out of the three and it is recommended you go with a metal shed that has been treated or painted, or made of aluminum over tin.
Like plastic sheds they come in several styles and many different sizes, but do lack a color scheme to select from so matching it to the decor of your home can only be accomplished if you were to paint it since most metal sheds come in a plain whitish color.
Also keep in mind they share the same con as a plastic shed as far as being vulnerable to shaking and tipping over in high winds unless anchored to a foundation. But for the price is yet another choice to consider over pricey pre-built wood sheds.
To conclude, hopefully this article provided some helpful insight for folks looking for the correct type of shed for their backyard!
Article written by: Matthew Laphet, Co-creator of Shed Plans Online.net. An online resource providing folks guidance to Quality Shed Plans
Find more information and reviews of backyard sheds at Amazon:
 Lifetime 60001 8-by-10-Foot Outdoor Storage Shed
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 Sheds: The Do-It-Yourself Guide for Backyard Builders
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 SHED KIT – PEAK ROOF
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