Storage Shed

Practical storage solution optimised for garden equipment and household items

Roof Type Pent (Mono-Pitch)

Default Pitch 8°

Typical Size 1.8m x 1.2m

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Overview

The storage shed is optimised for one purpose: keeping your belongings safe, dry, and organised. With practical features like wide doors for easy access and minimal wasted space, storage sheds are the workhorses of garden buildings.

Key Features

Storage sheds prioritise accessible floor space and easy loading/unloading. Double doors or extra-wide single doors are common, and the internal layout focuses on maximising usable storage volume.

History & Design

As household possessions have increased and garages have filled with cars (or been converted to living space), dedicated storage sheds have become essential for managing overflow items.

When to Choose a Storage Shed

Choose a storage shed when you need:

Easy access for bulky items
Space for garden furniture in winter
Overflow storage from your garage
A practical solution without premium features
Room for bikes, mowers, and miscellaneous gear

Storage sheds do one thing well: keep your stuff dry and organised. If you need features like workbenches or windows, consider a different type.

Pros and Cons

Advantages

Maximised usable space
Wide doors for easy access
Practical, no-frills design
Good value for capacity
Versatile internal layout

Considerations

Limited natural light
Not designed for working inside
Basic specification
May need additional organisation fittings

Typical Uses

Primary Uses

Garden furniture storage
Camping equipment
Sports equipment
Household overflow storage

Also Suitable For

Garden party supplies
Seasonal decorations
Archive storage
Car maintenance supplies

Sizing Guide

Use Case	Recommended Size	Floor Area
Small	1200mm x 900mm	1.08 m²
Standard	1800mm x 1200mm	2.16 m²

Custom sizes? Use our shed builder to generate plans for any dimensions within the permitted range.

Construction Notes

Foundation

Bearer and joist floor systems provide adequate support for storage sheds. Ensure bearers are adequately sized for the span.

Framing

Standard framing is adequate. Focus budget on wide doors and weatherproof cladding rather than structural over-engineering.

Roofing

Simple pent roofs suit storage sheds well. Direct rainwater away from the door threshold.

Special Considerations

Plan the door opening for your largest item. Double doors or extra-wide singles make loading and unloading much easier.

Example Builds

Standard Configuration

1800mm x 1200mm

A typical Storage Shed build suitable for most requirements.

Standard cladding
Single door
1 window

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Frequently Asked Questions

In most cases, garden sheds are permitted development and don't require planning permission. However, restrictions apply: the shed must be single storey with maximum eaves height of 2.5m, maximum overall height of 4m (for dual-pitched roofs) or 3m (for any other roof), and must not cover more than 50% of the curtilage. Sheds must not be forward of the principal elevation. Listed buildings and conservation areas have additional restrictions. Always check with your local planning authority if in doubt.

Options include concrete slabs, paving slabs, pressure-treated bearer and joist systems, or adjustable post supports. Concrete provides the most stable base for larger sheds, while bearer systems are quick to install and allow airflow beneath the floor. The key requirements are: level, stable, and dry with adequate drainage around the perimeter.

A well-built and maintained shed can last 15-25+ years. Key factors are: quality of original construction, adequacy of foundations, quality of timber treatment, regular maintenance (retreating cladding, checking for rot), and roof condition. Budget sheds with minimal maintenance may only last 5-10 years.

Ideally, treat all surfaces before assembly - this ensures hidden faces are protected. Pay special attention to cut ends, which are most vulnerable to moisture. After construction, apply treatment to all accessible exterior surfaces annually or as the product recommends.

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