Key Takeaways
If you need extra storage for lawn tools, outdoor chemicals and off-season supplies, an outdoor shed is a great idea. Two of the most popular options are wood and metal sheds. We'll highlight the benefits and consideration of each, so that you can make the best choice for your needs.
- Cost & installation: Wood sheds are the most expensive option, but they're also customizable. Metal sheds are easier to assemble and typically more affordable.
- Maintenance needs: Metal doesn't require as much upkeep as wood. You'll need to regularly seal a wood shed to prevent water damage and pest infestations.
- Durability & weather resistance: Wood sheds are durable and weather resistant if properly treated. Metal sheds are lighter, so they'll need to be anchored. However, they can handle harsh weather and can last ten years or more.
- Aesthetics: If you're looking to customize a shed to coordinate with your home's exterior, then wood sheds will be a better fit. Metal sheds come in numerous colors, but they can't be painted like a wood shed.
What Are Metal Sheds?
Metal sheds are made of galvanized steel or aluminum, making them a durable choice that can last for years. They're generally used in homes, businesses and industrial areas for storing tools, equipment, vehicles and other goods.
These sheds are available in different sizes and designs. They can be used as small outdoor storage units or converted into larger workshops and garages. Let's explore the different metal shed styles.
Gable Metal Shed
Gable style metal sheds have a gentle slope and are one of the most popular options. Due to the slope of the roof, it prevents rain and heavy snow from accumulating, making them a smart choice for areas with inclement weather.
Gambrel Metal Shed
If you like a more rustic or farmhouse look, consider a gambrel metal shed. The roof line resembles a barn, making it an ideal solution in rural areas. These sheds also have a steep slope, which creates extra vertical space to install shelving.
Lean-to Metal Shed
If you're short on space, a lean-to metal shed is a good option. These sheds are usually supported by the wall of a home or garage. Because of their shape, they typically work best for smaller items, such as hand tools, garden supplies or small outdoor power equipment.
What Are Wood Sheds?
Wood sheds are made of timber and are used to store garden tools and large equipment. These sheds are typically the most attractive option and can be customized to match the home's exterior. They can be painted the color of your choice and altered to include windows, French doors, skylights and window boxes.
Wood sheds aren't simply used for storage. Transform one into a she shed, office playhouse, poolside bar and more. Let's explore the different wood shed styles.
Lean-to Wood Shed
Lean-to wood sheds don't require a conventional stud wall across the back because they're designed to be built against an existing wall. Due to their restrictive size, they're better for smaller items such as garden supplies and hand tools. Add hooks and shelving to maximize every square foot of storage space.
Gable Shed
Wood gable sheds are sturdy, durable and attractive. They're also good coverage in inclement weather, making them ideal for storing items in extreme temperatures.
Features of Metal Sheds vs Wood Sheds
While choosing a shed, consider factors such as storage, location, weather, durability and more. We'll explain the benefits of metal and wood sheds.
Storage Capacity
Metal Sheds
Metal sheds can store landscaping equipment such as lawnmowers, snowblowers and wheelbarrows. You can also store garden tools, grilling gear, outdoor furniture and more. They come in numerous sizes ranging from 37 square feet to over 500 square feet.
Wood Sheds
Depending on the size, wood sheds can handle small garden tools to waste containers, outdoor power equipment and bicycles. Sizes range from small wood cabinets to 500 square foot sheds that can be transformed into an office, art studio, she shed and more.
Appearance
Metal Sheds
Metal sheds are available in numerous colors, but they're somewhat limited in style and features. The most popular colors are white, gray, black and brown.
Wood Sheds
Wood sheds are the most visually appealing and they can be customized to mimic the look of your home. Paint them the color of your choice and add windows, skylights, window boxes and landscaping for an attractive addition to your backyard.
Durability
Metal Sheds
Metal sheds are the most durable choice. They're lightweight, yet strong and have a protective coating, making them resistant to the elements, insects and fire. To increase the lifespan of a metal shed, you can install wood framing to make it more stable.
Wood Sheds
Wood sheds are durable, strong and sturdy, but they require routine maintenance to prevent rot and pest infestations. Plan on sealing it every couple of years and painting or staining a wood shed every 5-10 years.
Paint
Metal Sheds
Metal sheds cannot be painted, but they're available in numerous colors including black, white, brown, green and gray.
Wood Sheds
Wood sheds can be painted the color of your choice. This is important if you're trying to mimic the look of your home's exterior.
Maintenance
Metal Sheds
Metal sheds require less maintenance, lasting over 10 years in harsh weather conditions. To prevent rusting, inspect the protective coating to see if it has any damage. If it does, you can apply a rust inhibitor. It's also a good idea to seal any gaps with silicone caulk and use touch-up paint on scratches.
Wood Sheds
Wood sheds require more maintenance than metal sheds. To maintain a wood shed, apply a sealant on it every 2 years to protect it from insects and water damage. A wood shed also needs to be elevated to maintain airflow and prevent wood rot.
Metal sheds are lighter, so you'll need anchors to hold them down.
Cost
Metal Sheds
Metal sheds are less expensive and easier to install than wood sheds.
Wood Sheds
There are more costs to manufacturing a wood shed, so they're typically more expensive. However, they're also more customizable than a metal shed.
Let's Get Started
If you need extra storage at home, a metal or wood shed is a welcome addition. Metal sheds are a less expensive and more durable option to wood sheds. They're also resistant to the elements, pests and fire.
However, wood sheds are an attractive alternative that can be used for storage or as an ADU (alternate dwelling unit). They typically cost more, but are a customizable solution.
If you're ready to purchase a shed, shop online now or visit your local Lowe's store. We'll also ship the shed to your home and install it for you.
Wood and Metal Shed FAQ
Which Is More Durable: A Metal Shed or Wood Shed?
Each one can last for years, but a wood shed does require regular upkeep to prevent moisture and pest damage. Metal sheds are a more low-maintenance option because they're rot-, insect- and fire-resistant.
Do Metal Sheds Rust Over Time?
Most new metal sheds have a protective coating that's rust-resistant, but they can still corrode if that layer is damaged. By doing minor touch-ups, you can extend the lifespan of your metal shed.
Are Wood Sheds Better for Customization?
If you want to design a shed that complements the look of your home's exterior, then wood sheds are the best choice. They can be modified and painted, creating a customized look.
Which Type of Shed Requires Less Maintenance?
In order to maintain the appearance and structural integrity of a wood shed, you'll need to add a sealant every couple of years and paint or stain it every 5-10 years. Metal sheds are a low maintenance alternative.