A garden shed isn’t just somewhere to stash your lawnmower or garden tools. These days, a shed can be anything from a workshop to your own little bolt hole when life gets busy. At Sutton Sheds, we understand that with so much choice on the market, picking the right shed for you and your circumstances can be overwhelming. So, in this comprehensive guide, we’ll discuss everything you need to take into account, to be able to choose a shed that fits your needs and enhances your outdoor space.
Step 1. How will you use your shed?
What do you want from your garden shed? Somewhere to store the children’s toys, garden furniture, and equipment? Or do you quietly crave a dedicated workshop for woodworking or potting plants? Maybe you just need a quiet space to escape from the noise. How you answer will influence your choice—and help you focus on the features that matter most.
Step 2. How much shed do you need?
You need to pick a garden shed that is not only big enough to accommodate all your ‘stuff’, but that will also fit your garden without overwhelming it. Take careful measurements and picture how the shed will sit in your garden without dominating it. At Sutton Sheds, standard sizes run from a compact 7x5 pent or apex shed to a spacious 16x10 model. The perfect shed should give you enough room for everything you need to store or do, but remember that bigger isn’t always better, and a shed that is too big will take over the garden.
Step 3. Single or double doors?
Consider what type of item will be going in and out of the shed. Single door sheds are sufficient for most storage needs, but if you’re planning to store large items like ride-on mowers, bicycles, or garden furniture, double doors will make your life much easier. If you are erring towards double doors, remember that they will need more wall space and room to swing open.
Step 4. Roof styles - apex, or pent?
Apex roofs will give your shed a classic peaked look, running from gable end to gable end, usually with the door in a gable, while pent roofs are flat and slope from the front to the back. Your choice affects not only the appearance but also how well the shed handles rainwater runoff or snow load. To read more about which roof type might be better for you, read Wooden pent sheds or apex sheds – which are better?
Step 5. Materials - wood, metal, or plastic?
The material you choose will impact how your shed looks, how long lasting it will be, and how much ongoing maintenance it will need. Sheds can be manufactured from timber, metal, or plastic.
Wood lends your shed a timeless appeal and can be painted or stained to blend with your garden aesthetic. It does require regular upkeep to prevent rot and insect damage (see our guide to wood treatment and protection for your garden buildings for more on this), but at Sutton Sheds, we believe that nothing beats the traditional charm of quality timber.
Metal sheds are tough and durable, resistant to pest infestation, and fire-safe. However, they can be prone to rust and generally offer less insulation.
Plastic (resin) sheds are lightweight, weather-resistant, and low-maintenance, though they often lack the classic look of wood and they are prone to fading when exposed to sunshine.
Our guide Are timber sheds any good? has a handy at-a-glance list of the pros and cons of each, to help you decide.
Step 6. Shed foundation - don’t skimp on the base
As we wrote in What foundations do I need for my shed? all sheds should have foundations. No matter which shed you choose, a solid, level base will keep it stable and dry. Without a suitable base, your shed will settle unevenly, causing leaks and cracks. Concrete, paving slabs, timber, or even plastic bases are all options. At Sutton Sheds we don’t install foundations but can connect you with reputable contractors who do.
Step 7. Design details - doors, windows, and colour
It’s the design details that will make your shed your own and turn it from a storage box into an attractive and inviting space. Glazing can let natural light in and double doors, as mentioned, help with big items. If you have a specific design in mind, we offer a bespoke, custom-build service where our skilled craftsmen can bring your design to life, or even help you create the perfect structure. Don’t underestimate aesthetics either! A timber garden shed finished in a colour that complements your home and your outdoor décor will become a highlight of your garden. At Sutton Sheds, we offer a choice of over 150 colours for a truly personalised touch.
Step 8. Durability, weather resistance, and security
Where you live will influence the shed you choose – in particularly wet climates you will need a waterproof roof and you will need to maintain and treat your shed regularly. In sunnier regions, UV resistance will be important. If your shed will be exposed to excessive snowfall, it will be vital that the roof is strong enough to withstand the weight. Wherever you live, though, security is essential - choose sturdy locks and tamper-proof hinges to protect the contents of your shed.
Step 9. Assembly and installation
All Sutton Sheds’ garden structures are made to order and delivered flat-packed. Our own, specialist team will then assemble the shed on your site, ensuring everything fits together perfectly.
Step 10. Budget - balancing cost and value
Budget will influence your choices, from size and materials to custom features. Wood sheds tend to cost more, especially for bespoke designs, while metal and plastic options are generally more affordable. When setting a budget, remember to include any customisation such as insulation and, of course, the cost of any foundations or bespoke features.
Why choose Sutton Sheds?
A new garden shed is a considered purchase so you should buy from a company you can trust. Look for businesses with a strong track record, glowing reviews, and a commitment to craftsmanship.
Sutton Sheds is a family-owned business in Lincolnshire, crafting handmade timber sheds for over three decades. Our standard sheds are built to order from high-quality materials, with a choice of roof shapes, door styles, and more than 150 colours. Prices for the smallest 7x5-foot shed start at £770 (at time of writing), which includes installation, but not the base or insulation. If you need something unique, our bespoke service lets you design the ultimate shed to your exact requirements.
For more information or to start designing your shed, contact us by email or call 01526 342777.
