Practical guide
What size shed do I need?
Start with a useful size, then make sure your kit fits.
The garden notebook
A useful answer.
At every stage.
Choose your shed, plan the job and keep it looking good. Start with the decision in front of you.
Choose & compare
Start with what you need to store, then choose the right building.
Compare your options
Wooden, metal or plastic shed?
Choose by maintenance, use and site constraints.
Buying guide
Best small sheds: our timber, resin and steel picks
Our small-shed picks, with a clear reason to choose each one.
Buying guide
Best metal sheds: our picks for compact and larger storage
Two metal sheds we recommend for different storage jobs.
Buying guide
Best bike stores: our picks for space and access
Two bike stores we recommend, and when to choose each.
Practical guide
Bike stores: size, security and access
Measure the bike and the manoeuvre into storage.
Practical guide
Choosing log stores and bin stores
Allow access and ventilation for the actual contents.
Practical guide
Overlap, shiplap and tongue-and-groove cladding
Understand construction rather than choosing by a label alone.
Compare your options
Apex, pent or reverse apex roof?
Match door position, headroom and drainage to the site.
Compare your options
Pressure-treated or dip-treated timber?
Check the treatment and warranty obligations together.
Compare your options
Shed retailer delivery and assembly compared
Compare the service attached to a precise order.
Practical guide
How much does a shed really cost?
Add all quoted work instead of treating the kit price as the budget.
Practical guide
How close to a fence can a shed be?
Separate planning height limits, working space and property rights.
Prepare & install
Get the ground and the delivery route ready.
Compare your options
Shed base options compared
Choose a suitable base from the building requirements and site conditions.
Practical guide
Will a shed fit through my gate?
Check the largest delivered component and the whole route.
Care & maintain
Keep your shed sound, secure and useful for longer.
Practical guide
How to treat a shed and how often
Follow the specific timber and finish instructions.
Practical guide
Shed security: locks, hinges and alarms
Build a security plan around contents and insurer requirements.
Practical guide
Re-felting a shed roof
Assess the roof and safe access before deciding on DIY.
Practical guide
What does home insurance cover in a shed?
Check your own policy limits and security conditions.