The Best Storage Sheds

The Best Storage Shed Options — Photo: istockphoto.com Photo: istockphoto.com

We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs. Learn More ›

Whether you need a spot to store a push mower or an overflow place for bicycles, sports equipment, or an ever-growing collection of DIY tools, an outdoor storage shed provides an ideal solution.

A fixture in backyards across the country—especially when garage space is at a premium—storage sheds protect belongings from the elements. Moreover, if desired, a storage shed can do double duty as an outdoor living space, such as an office, potting shed, or she shed. Keep reading to discover our recommendations and top picks for the best storage shed units available.

BEST OVERALL: Arrow Woodridge Metal Storage Shed
BEST BUDGET: Rubbermaid Resin Weather Resistant Storage Shed
BEST CRAFTSMAN: Keter Factor 8×11 Foot Large Resin Outdoor Shed
BEST GABLE: Suncast Tremont 8 ft. x 10 ft. Resin Storage Shed
BEST LUXURY: E-Z Fit Sheds Riverside 10 ft. x 14 ft. Storage Shed
BEST FOR GARDENING TOOLS: Suncast Resin Vertical Storage Shed
BEST LEAN-TO: Duramax SideMate Lean-To Storage Shed

What to Consider When Choosing the Best Storage Shed

Aesthetics are one consideration when selecting the best storage shed for your yard. To get the best utility from an outdoor shed, also consider size, interior features, and the climate. Some other factors to consider when looking at outdoor storage sheds include the following.

Type

Outdoor storage sheds come in a variety of types or styles to serve and complement many different homes. Some of the most popular types on the market are:

Modern sheds feature clean lines and muted colors, and most have a sloped roofline. These outdoor sheds may include windows to brighten up the shed’s interior, as they’re commonly used as studio spaces or offices.
A-frame sheds, which are both simple and affordable, feature a steeply angled roof that creates more vertical space for extra shelving or a storage loft.
Craftsman sheds have an A-frame roof, with smooth lines and charming accents and windows.
Barn/gambrel sheds, which represent a classic rustic style, usually offer more space than other types of storage sheds. These sheds typically incorporate a four-sided gambrel roof, which maximizes interior storage space. But they may also come in an A-frame design with country elements.
Lean-to sheds work well in small yards tucked away beside a house or fence. Lean-tos have a sloped roofline rather than a roof with a center peak like an A-frame.
Vertical/locker sheds generally have flat roofs. Too small to allow for standing inside, these outdoor sheds serve strictly as storage for a minimal number of items, such as garbage and recycling bins or gardening tools and supplies.

Size

Always read the size specifications before ordering a storage shed. Ensure the dimensions of the outdoor shed suit the needs of the household and the yard. Some outdoor storage sheds create a footprint of just a few square feet, while others measure more than 12 feet by 12 feet.

To obtain an approximate idea of how much storage space is required, gather up all the items intended for the shed. Place them together in the yard or garage, and measure around them. Unless it’s a locker-style shed, which doesn’t allow standing room, add an extra 2 or 3 feet to factor in the space needed to walk comfortably around the stored items in the shed.

Material

Each type of shed material has perks and drawbacks. When choosing the shed’s material, consider the local climate. Not all materials can withstand all types of weather. Common outdoor shed materials include:

Wood, which is a strong, dependable storage shed material with aesthetic appeal, comes in a wide variety of designs and allows for customization to suit different tastes. Wooden outdoor storage sheds require proper construction and regular maintenance with varnish, or the wood may rot. Expect to pay a bit more for a quality wood shed.
Resin, an increasingly popular type of plastic for sheds, resists rot, insects, and rust. It can withstand the elements in several types of climates. Low maintenance, lighter, and easy to move, resin sheds may not be as sturdy as others. Plastic also isn’t as customizable as other materials.
Vinyl, another type of plastic, looks and performs similarly to resin. Easy to clean, fire retardant, and often quite durable, this type of plastic not only resists cracking better than resin, but also provides improved protection in extreme weather. Like resin, vinyl isn’t as sturdy as non-plastic materials, and vinyl sheds are not customizable.
Metal, an inexpensive, durable, rot- and insect-resistant material, offers more utility than style. Similar to plastic sheds, metal sheds aren’t typically customizable. They hold up against extreme hot and cold, but not to rust, corrosion, and leaks. They work best in dryer climates.

Interior Features

Some garden sheds include interior features, while others must be customized. Some interior features to look for or add to a storage shed include:

Classic shelving is built in or included on some outdoor storage sheds. These help make the most of the space and keep gardening tools and other outdoor necessities organized.
Loft shelving, a practical addition to a barn or A-frame storage shed, maximizes overhead space that would otherwise go unused. Loft shelving provides a safe spot for chemical storage, which should stay off the floor and away from pets and children.
A workbench typically doesn’t come with a storage shed, but if plans for the shed include using it as a work space, factor in the size of a bench or desk.
Lighting is a good addition to a shed. Natural light works well, especially in sheds with windows or skylights. However, if the shed will be used after dark, consider investing in a model that allows hooking up lights.
Ventilation is vital for a garden shed-turned-work space or a shed used to store paint, oil, or chemicals. More expensive sheds may offer ventilation, but DIYers can add ventilation to wood sheds themselves.

Access and Security

The shed’s contents must be protected; an unlocked outdoor shed provides thieves with an easy opportunity.

Locks on the door and windows help prevent theft. Often, however, outdoor sheds come with basic, lower-quality locks that DIYers may want to replace with something more secure. Make sure your shed has a strong lock, like a padlock, as weak or small locks can be opened easily with force or the right tools. Types of door locks on outdoor storage sheds include:

Padlocks
Door handles with built-in locks
Deadbolts

Focus on quality when selecting a storage shed. Structural issues or flimsy materials also serve as an invitation for a security breach or potential damage. Rotted wood, rusty metal, missing shingles, or loose hinges also ease access to trespassers. Some security measures to add to an outdoor shed include:

An alarm system
Motion lights
Curtains
A bike lock to secure large items together

Installation

First, select the right location. Choose a spot out of sight of the street that can be seen from the house. Sheds require a level surface on an area free of shrubs, branches, and trees. Installation methods depend on whether the shed is prefabricated or a DIY project. Assembly instructions vary depending on the size and type of shed.

Prefabricated sheds are manufactured in wood, vinyl, resin, or metal. Assembly involves following the manufacturer’s instructions. Customized storage sheds, on the other hand, require experience and know-how to build a safe and stable structure. For any type of installation, make sure the outdoor shed is anchored to the ground, fence, or wall to keep it secure.

Our Top Picks

We performed extensive research to find the best storage sheds currently on the market. Our top picks include different styles, sizes, and materials to account for different climates, space limitations, and preferences. Read through our recommendations to discover some excellent storage sheds.

Best Overall

Arrow Woodridge Metal Storage Shed

Whereas ultra-modern sheds have a very “now” aesthetic, modern rustic style has a more timeless quality. Arrow’s Woodridge storage shed puts a modern twist on a backyard staple, incorporating elegant simplicity into a time-tested design. Rather than wood, this design incorporates metal with a realistic wood-grain finish. Unlike wood, this robust material resists not only water but also rot.

As further protection against water and rot, the tall walls and A-frame construction won’t collect water when it rains. Double sliding doors provide an opening large enough to bring in outdoor gear and tools. Inside, 734 cubic feet provide space for storage and to move around. Though it doesn’t come with a floor, DIYers may add the flooring of their choice.

Product Specs

Material: Metal
Dimensions: 123.25 by 145.75 by 82.125 inches
Interior Shelving: No
Lockable: Yes

Pros

Durable and spacious
Mimics real wood without the expense or risk of rot
Wide doorway for larger items
Made in the USA

Cons

Flooring not included

Best Budget

Rubbermaid Resin Weather Resistant Storage Shed

Rubbermaid, a recognizable name in home storage, offers this slim storage shed with double-wall resin construction that makes this outdoor shed sturdy and weather resistant. Two doors open wide so users can move items in and out. Though it doesn’t have shelving, users may customize the interior with shelves, pegboards, racks, hooks, and more.

The shed’s small footprint works well for small and specific storage needs. This design comes in three size options; however, the shed may not be the right fit for an accumulation of tools and patio accessories.

Product Specs

Material: Resin
Dimensions: 28 by 55 by 77 inches
Interior Shelving: No
Lockable: Yes, but lock not included

Pros

Weather-resistant material
Customizable with hooks, shelves, and other additions
Different size and color options

Cons

Only for minimal storage needs

Best Craftsman

Keter Factor 8×11 Foot Large Resin Outdoor Shed

Best Storage Shed Option: Keter Factor 8x11 Foot Large Resin Outdoor Shed — Photo: exit15.com

Whether it serves as storage or a workshop, the Keter storage shed makes a worthy addition to the backyard. Made with a steel-reinforced frame and quality resin, the waterproof, UV-protected material offers all-weather resistance. Resin resists rust, peeling, denting, and rot. A light spray with a hose helps keep it clean. This shed requires no painting or varnishing.

The Keter shed boasts a heavy-duty floor, built-in air vents, a window and skylight, and double doors that accept a padlock and door bolts for added security. Though straightforward, installation may take some time. The manufacturer recommends two sets of hands to make the work easier.

Product Specs

Material: Resin
Dimensions: 101 by 130.5 by 95.5 inches
Interior Shelving: Yes
Lockable: Yes, but lock not included

Pros

Air vents for ventilation
Virtually maintenance-free
A-frame roof extends the interior height
Resists rotting, rusting, denting, and peeling

Cons

May take extra time to assemble

Best Gable

Suncast Tremont 8 ft. x 10 ft. Resin Storage Shed

An attractive design, ample size, and plenty of windows and skylights create natural light for the Tremont’s interior. The 8-foot by 10-foot shed features heavy-duty resin construction molded to resemble real wood. Unlike other plastic sheds, Suncast incorporates a double-layered wall and metal truss system for added strength.

A gabled roof, carriage-house style doors, and a sophisticated earth-tone color scheme give the shed an attractive look that works in suburban or urban settings. Two windows on the doors and six skylights provide plenty of natural lighting for visibility. Two corner shelves create storage space, and a large hasp on the door for a standard padlock adds security.

Product Specs

Material: Resin
Dimensions: 100.5 by 122.25 by 103 inches
Interior Shelving: Yes
Lockable: Yes, but lock not included

Pros

Moisture resistant and UV protected for up to 10 years
Reinforced resin floor supports heavier loads
Functional vents for air circulation
Adjustable shelving

Cons

No predrilled holes for attaching the shed to the foundation
Installation instructions may be unclear

Best Luxury

E-Z Fit Sheds Riverside 10 ft. x 14 ft. Storage Shed

With design touches that make it look more like a cottage, the E-Z Fit Sheds Riverside model makes a charming setting for a studio, remote office, or a workshop. Window boxes, shutters, a cupola, and panelled doors with black wrought-iron hinges elevate this gabled-roof shed. Eaves that overhang the front and rear of the shed add an attractive additional touch.

This E-Z Fit Shed includes a set of carriage-style double doors that allow for moving large equipment in and out. An individual front door provides faster single-person access. Functional windows and a roof pitch that rises to nearly 10 feet add ventilation and create space.

Product Specs

Material: Solid and manufactured wood
Dimensions: 120 by 168 by 123 inches
Interior Shelving: No
Lockable: Yes

Pros

Pieces numbered sequentially for easy assembly
4-inch-thick walls
Storage capacity of 980 cubic feet
Includes window screens and shutters

Cons

Shingles, floor kit, and paint must be purchased separately

Best For Gardening Tools

Suncast Resin Vertical Storage Shed

Those looking for a place to simply store gardening tools may want to consider this small tool shed from Suncast. At just under 3 feet wide and 2 feet deep, its small frame fits on the side of a house or on a deck or patio. At 6 feet tall, it offers ample space and double doors for rakes, shovels, hoes, and other garden tools.

The shed consists of sturdy 1-3/16-inch thick plastic resin walls, unlike many resin sheds, which often have thinner walls. Slots molded into the walls create a place to install interior shelving. The shed features a neutral earth-tone color scheme to work in many settings.

Product Specs

Material: Resin
Dimensions: 32 by 24.75 by 72 inches
Interior Shelving: No
Lockable: Yes, but lock not included

Pros

Water resistant and UV protected
Comes with notched grooves to add shelves
Reinforced flooring supports heavier items

Cons

Doors shut tightly but can be tough to open

Best Lean-To

Duramax SideMate Lean-To Storage Shed

For storing larger items, such as multiple bicycles along with a mower and sports equipment, consider the Duramax SideMate Storage Shed. The lean-to shape allows for easy placement along the back or side of a house or garage or against a fence. It also works as a freestanding unit. A single door fits on either side of the garden shed, and its gently sloping roof allows water to run off. Unlike many polyethylene storage sheds, Duramax’s SideMate features a metal structure for increased support and stability. Its door handle accepts a padlock (not included). Additional shelving can be mounted on its steel-reinforced walls. The SideMate stands 73 inches high at its uppermost point, providing plenty of space to store multiple items, including tall tools and equipment.

Product Specs

Material: Vinyl
Dimensions: 48 by 96 by 73 inches
Interior Shelving: No
Lockable: Yes, but lock not included

Pros

Durable, fire-retardant material
Walls reinforced with metal inserts
Minimal assembly required
Metal wall columns to hang shelves

Cons

Not sturdy enough to hang heavier items on the walls

Our Verdict

The Keter Factor storage shed ranks as one of our top choices. Large enough to serve as storage, an outdoor living space, or a remote work space, it offers natural light and ventilation. The Rubbermaid storage shed also ranks high on our list. This affordable, customizable outdoor storage shed has a small footprint, and it can sit outside a detached home, on the patio, or in the garage of a townhome, apartment, or condo.

How We Chose the Best Storage Sheds

We reviewed dozens of the best storage sheds on the market. In our research, we evaluated certain criteria that helped inform our top picks.

In our product review, we assessed:

Quality craftsmanship: Each of our recommendations is built to last (providing the climate is suitable for the material). We typically selected products with anchoring solutions built into the design with high-quality materials and construction, security features such as locking doors and windows, and more.
Design: Even small storage sheds take up a fair amount of space. We also looked for aesthetically pleasing designs.
Brand reputation: We selected storage sheds from companies known for their quality, experience, and customer rapport. We recommend products from brands with a stellar reputation.
Ease of assembly: We erred on the side of selecting products that are straightforward for a seasoned DIYer to put together.

FAQs

For more information on outdoor storage sheds, consult these frequently asked questions about shed flooring, foundations, and additional features such as gutters or ventilation.

Q: How large a shed can I put in my backyard?

The maximum size storage shed for your backyard depends on the city, county, and development in which you live. Check zoning ordinances and your homeowners association’s rules to determine what size sheds are allowed on your property.

Q: Do sheds need a foundation?

In general, smaller gardening sheds that measure about 8 feet by 6 feet or smaller do not require a foundation; instead, they can be mounted on a treated wood or crushed stone base. However, larger sheds require a sturdy foundation such as poured concrete or concrete blocks.

Q: Do I need a permit for a shed?

That depends on the jurisdiction. Many cities and states require a permit for outdoor sheds for any single dimension (height, width, or length) that exceeds 12 feet.

Q: Do sheds need gutters?

Although outdoor sheds don’t typically need gutters, some purchasers may want to add them. If your area receives a lot of annual precipitation, gutters and downspouts help prevent rainwater from pooling around the base of the shed, which could damage the base or even cause water to leak inside it.