Are you tired of clutter taking over your outdoor space?
You and I both. Between yard equipment, garden supplies, sports gear, seasonal decor… the list goes on and items stack up quickly. When your indoor storage solutions are maxed out, too many belongings get dumped outside. disorderly.
Storage sheds are one of the best ways to organize outdoors.
Metal storage sheds, in particular, offer spacious options to house things you wouldn’t normally fit elsewhere. Let’s dig into how these structures help bring order to outdoor chaos.
What you’ll learn:
- Why Metal Beats Wood or Plastic
- The Price Tag Of Outdoor Clutter
- Benefits of Metal Storage Sheds
- Picking the Perfect Shed
Why Metal Beats Wood Or Plastic
Metal storage sheds have surged in popularity over the past decade as homeowners seek serious storage options.
Metal lasts longer than wood and plastic. Period. Rot, insects, rust – they don’t stand a chance against metal. That means less maintenance for you and a longer lifespan for your investment.
According to market research, metal storage sheds account for nearly 75% of all outdoor storage revenue. Heavy up front? Maybe. Is it worth it? You bet.
They come in every size from small benches to oversized end gable sheds big enough for workshop equipment. Options are available to work with most property sizes and storage requirements.
Think about maintenance over the lifespan of a shed…
For wood, you’ll need to paint, seal, stain, and consistently check for weather damage. Metal storage sheds? Occasional washing and you’re done. Multiply that four times over the average lifetime of a shed and you’re saving money and time each year.
The Price Tag Of Outdoor Clutter
Believe it or not, junk all over your patio and yard is costing you money.
When things don’t have a designated place to live, we lose them. We break them. We buy new ones to replace what we should already own. It adds up.
Research shows that one in four Americans live in a two-car garage they can’t park both cars in. Yards and patios become repositories for the overflow.
And if those belongings are exposed to weather…
Rain, sun, snow and freezing temperatures take their toll on garden equipment, power tools, bicycles, grills, and holiday decorations. Good gear shouldn’t have to be replaced because you let Mother Nature beat it up.
Having the right storage shed protects your stuff from:
- Rain and humidity
- Prolonged sun exposure
- Theft and vandalism
- Insects and rodents
Water and sunlight degrade most items much faster when left outside. Invest in storage and you’ll spend less time (and money) replacing worn out equipment.
Benefits of Metal Storage Sheds
Metal storage sheds don’t just house your gear. They keep it protected long term.
Durability Above All
Constructed of steel, they can withstand heavy snowfall, downpours, and wind. Expect most metal sheds to last 20+ years with basic maintenance.
Storage Plus Security
Heavy-duty locks and tough metal keep would-be thieves looking elsewhere. You and your family spend money on things that matter. Don’t let vandals destroy those investments.
Not Fire Proof, But…
In fire, metal won’t burn. If you live in a wildfire-prone area, or somewhere that allows you to burn off debris near your home, this is essential.
Keep flammable materials in metal sheds where possible. Things like patio furniture, lawn mowers, bicycles, portable grills, and toys are a few examples.
Don’t forget about customizing your space.
Ventilation, windows, door placement, shelving – these are just a few options that make metal storage sheds more functional. Have areas to hang tools? Place a bench? Store sports equipment off the ground? Yeah. These sheds can do that.
Low Maintenance Matters
Wood decays. Plastic weatherstrips and fades. Metal sheds? They just get to do their job.
Galvanized steel won’t rust or corrode with proper care. Hosing off your shed one or two times a year is typically enough to keep it looking new. No paint or sealant is necessary like you would with wood.
Picking The Perfect Shed
Before you buy, take stock of what you want in a storage shed.
Consider Where It Goes
Walk around your property. Think about where you currently throw things when cluttering up your outdoor areas. Which areas are easily accessible? How’s the sun exposure? Do you have proper drainage or will you get pooling water in the winter?
Know Your Storage Needs
Make a list of what you have that needs a home. Outdoor tools, toys, sports equipment, holiday décor, etc. Don’t forget about things currently taking up residence in your garage or on your deck.
Tip: When in doubt, buy a shed with more space than you currently think you need. You’ll thank yourself later.
What will you use this space for?
A weekend warrior looking to store seasonal sports gear will need less space than someone planning to use their shed as a workshop. Both are valid uses for metal storage sheds but will dictate overall size.
Workshop style sheds should include:
- Higher ceilings
- Larger doors
- Electrical hookups
- Windows for ventilation
Check your local building codes.
Many municipalities will require you to pull a permit before building (or having someone else assemble) a shed. Size limitations, foundation types, property line setbacks, etc. are all rules you’ll want to look into before making a purchase.
Make Organization Last
Investing in a storage shed won’t magically declutter your yard. Discipline is required to maintain order.
Build an organizational system that will hold strong.
Don’t just toss items in there and call it a day. Section off areas for different categories of things. Hang shelves, racks, and hooks. Label compartments. Create a flow that allows you to easily find what you need without wasted time opening every bin.
Organization is about making systems. Build one for your shed.
Maintenance is key.
Go through and clean out your shed once each season. Thirty minutes a quarter to keep things in check is nothing. Declutter things no longer needed. Rearrange as necessary if a storage system stops working for you.
Seasonal clean up will allow you to preserve the efforts made to organize.
Wrap Up
Outdoor storage sheds keep belongings off the ground and protected from the elements. They clear up space in your garage and provide dedicated spots to house “stuff.”
Metal is the best material for outdoor sheds due to longevity, security, and low maintenance. Take the time to select a properly sized shed for your needs and enjoy clutter-free outdoor areas.
Remember:
- Metal beats wood and plastic every time
- Clutter costs you money
- Security will keep valuables safe
- Little to no maintenance is required
- Do your research to find the perfect shed
Happy storing!
FAQs
How long do metal outdoor storage sheds last?
With proper maintenance you should expect 20-25 years life out of your shed. Metal doesn’t rot or decay like wood and is far more durable. Galvanized steel sheds are resistant to rust and corrosion.
Do metal storage sheds need to be placed on concrete?
Smaller sheds can get away with just being placed on level ground or grass. I’ve even seen some people use gravel as a base. Larger sheds are typically set on concrete foundations to ensure consistent support and stability.
Are metal sheds difficult to assemble?
The average do-it-yourselfer can assemble metal sheds with no problem. All kits should come with instructions. They typically require very little tools and small sheds can be assembled by one person. Some of the mega sheds come in modules that will take a team to assemble.
Can metal sheds be insulated?
Yes! There are insulation options that allow you to moderate temperatures within your metal storage shed. This is ideal for those converting it into a workshop space or if you plan on storing things sensitive to temperature fluctuations.
Will metal sheds rust?
If maintained correctly metal sheds should never rust. Products today are either galvanized or have a baked on powder coat to prevent rusting. Small scratches can occur over time but are easy to touch up.