Buying or Building Sheds: The Advantages and Disadvantages

gardening shed in the backyard

Sheds are a great option to choose should you have the need to store some of your belongings. While you can buy or build your own shed, there are some significant advantages and disadvantages that you should be aware of before you make a decision. Please read the information below which will highlight the good and bad about building a shed, buying a shed, and the materials commonly used for sheds.

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As the builder of the shed, you have maximum control over its design. This is important because you will be able to build the shed to serve your exact needs. Additionally, it will be a bit cheaper to build a shed since you will only have to pay for the materials and tools. Along with being less expensive, you can build your shed according to your schedule, which can be significantly faster than having a professional build it for you. Professionals generally have other projects and may not dedicate themselves fully to your particular project.

While you may have more creative control, you will need to put in a great deal of time and effort when building a shed. If you intend to build your own shed, you should be prepared to see the entire project through, which will require some organization and careful planning.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Buying a Shed

If constructing the shed will take too much time or you'd rather buy one for the convenience, purchasing a shed is the optimal option. You may have to spend a bit more than constructing it yourself, but you will be saving yourself a great deal of time and effort. Additionally, if you have your shed built by professionals you can be assured that it will be built properly.

While buying will save you time, it unfortunately will cost you more, especially if you hire a professional to build the shed. A normal shed costs about $300 while hiring a contractor or builder can cost you up to $3000 with labor, materials, and additional costs. Not only will you be spending more money, but you will also lose a bit of creative control when it comes to your shed. Overall, money and the intended use of your shed should be taken into consideration before you go ahead and buy a shed for your home.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Common Materials


Wood is the most aesthetically pleasing material to use for a shed, but it's also the most expensive and difficult to use for the project. Wood sheds need sturdy foundations, which can be a daunting step in the building process. Wood sheds also need added protection to repel insects, fungus, rot, and weather damage.


Metal sheds are much cheaper than wood sheds and are not susceptible to fire and insect damage. However, cheaper metal sheds rust over time, but more expensive aluminum sheds will be resilient to it. Overall, not very aesthetically pleasing and the sharp corners of the protruding metal could be hazardous to children.


Plastic is not only the cheapest option for material, but it is also lighter and tougher than wood. Additionally, it requires the least amount of maintenance because it resists most forms of damage, such as insects or rot. Although, plastic sheds may not offer the same design or decorative options metal or woodsheds do.


Vinyl is one of the better options as it is stronger than plastic or metal sheds. However, it is the most costly option. If you desire a shed that can withstand the weather and are willing to pay quite a bit more, vinyl sheds will be a good option.

Engineered Wood

Engineered wood resolves many of the problems traditional wood flooring encounters: moisture damage, bugs, and rot and may use more eco-friendly practices when using and growing the trees needed since different types are used. Compared to traditional wood, however, engineered wood may also be more expensive for the initial purchase, and homeowners should make sure core layers are still made using high-quality wood. The top veneer may be too thin for sanding and refinishing later in the material's life, so thicker flooring should be considered.
