Garage Materials: Things To Know Before You Buy.

What is the difference between metal, plastic and wood garages and storage sheds

for sale? They all keep your items safe and dry, right? They do, but there are differences that may or may not work for your storage needs. Let's take a look at each one.

Metal is inexpensive, fire and bug resistant, and has long lasting strength. However, it is prone to damage by hail, high winds, rain, and snow. A high wind can topple a metal storage shed. Heavy snow or debris can collapse the roof, so it needs to be cleared regularly. Humidity and condensation can lead to rust and leaks. Metal sheds are not very attractive, usually coming in colors of grey or white. Additionally, there is little flexibility in metal sheds to customize shelving and hooks, or add a window or vent. The material is easily damaged by nails and screws.  

Generally, plastic sheds and garage units are a little more expensive than metal, although the price increases for a higher quality gauge plastic. A plastic shed is more secure  and durable than a metal one as environmental impact is less. Some brands of plastic sheds recently introduced to the market have grooves in the walls that allow you to hang items at various heights. Others require the added purchase of metal shelving. While low maintenance is a big plus, plastic sheds still lose out in the aesthetic arena. Style-wise there has been some improvement, but the various shades of beige remain unappealing.

Wood garages and sheds are the most expensive of the three materials, but they are extremely durable, holding up well to the elements. A little tender loving care on a regular basis will keep maintenance in check so your wood shed will remain strong for many years. Wood is a renewable resource making it good for the environment. Wood can be easily customized to blend in with your yard or match your house. Its flexibility can accommodate shelving and hooks where ever they are needed. It can be built in any style and any roof line, have one or several windows, or be built on a concrete foundation rather than a wooden floor.

Trivia Time: 3 Things You're Dying to Know About Sheds.

Storage Sheds- Choose the One to Suit Your Needs

When it comes to storage sheds, there really is one to suit every need. Before you jump in and start looking at sheds, think about everything you want your new shed to do for you.

A few questions to ask yourself:

• How much equipment will you be storing?
• Will you need extra wide doors to fit large equipment?
• Will you need extra height to fit tall equipment?
• Do you need to be able to lock your shed, or will an open shed work?
• Do you need a 2-story shed?
• Do you want a custom shed built on your site?
• Are you a do-it-yourselfer who wants to build your shed from a kit?

Storage Sheds Come in Many Shapes and Sizes

Picking the right storage shed is exciting, because there are so many options to choose from. 

Here are just a few of the styles you'll want to consider:

Barn Style Sheds--When you need a lot of storage space, extra wide doors, and maximum overhead clearance, consider a barn style shed. These are great sheds for rider mowers and other big equipment. Perfect for larger properties.

Garden Sheds--These compact sheds are an ideal size for the basic equipment you need to keep the lawn in top shape, like a push mower, wheelbarrow, weed whacker, shovels, racks, etc.

Firewood Sheds--These are open-front structures with an overhanging roof to keep firewood dry and ready to burn. They are also a great place to hang tools and store mowers and other equipment.

Shed Kits--Kits allow you to build your own shed. They provide a great deal of flexibility, in terms of size and features. Kits save you money and you can take pride in a job well done. Most kits are suitable for beginners.

To learn more, or for assistance choosing the right shed for your needs, please Contact Us.