Types of Sheds: Shed Some Light on Your Choice

So you know you want a shed. That’s great. What kind of shed do you want? Maybe you didn’t realize there were different kinds. Perhaps you just wanted to pick out something that will fit in your given space. Well, before you start laying a foundation or readying your property for a shed, you first need to understand the different kinds of sheds that are available. 

You may be surprised as to just how many shed options there are. You can even customize your shed or mix and match designs to fit your particular needs better. Barnyard Utility Buildings will work with you in crafting the perfect shed for your property. However, before you begin placing orders making phone calls, it’s always a good idea to go over what is available and what types of sheds you have access to.

Types of Sheds – Building Materials

One of the first places to begin when considering the different types of sheds styles is the building materials you have access to. Different building materials will provide you with varying esthetics in the final look of your shed. Some building materials will be easier to change the look of later down the line, while other materials are easier to care for.

In general, the building materials are broken down into three categories:

• Wood
• Metal
• Vinyl (or plastic)

Wood will give you a more rustic look, which is something you might want to consider if you’re going for a New England/Cape Cod look of a shed. However, wood is harder to care for and will deteriorate faster if not regularly serviced. Metal, on the other hand, is sturdy, faster to install, and while it doesn’t have the same kind of aesthetic as wood, it is easy to care for. Lastly, there is vinyl. Vinyl can give you a similar look to wood, but you won’t have to perform the same kind of maintenance.

Shed Look

Here is one area you’ll want to spend most of your time considering. There are vastly different looks when it comes to your shed. If there is a particular vibe or appearance you’re going for then, it’s important to pay attention to the shed styles. Many want to match the look of their sheds with the look of their homes as it helps keep a consistent visual appeal throughout the property.

A barn shed, for example, likely matches what you’re thinking of. It has that traditional barn look, where the center is taller than the sides and the roof is slightly angled (not exactly a half-circle on top of the walls, but close). And, depending on the size of your barn shed, it can have sliding front doors, French opening doors, one large door, or any other design of door you’re interested in. Some will refer to a barn shed as a gambrel shed.

A lean-to shed is a more unusual-looking shed, and it isn’t all that common, at least here in the states where backyards are larger. Lean-to designs, where one side is tall and the roof slopes down away from the opposite side, are more common where backyard space is at a premium. Lean-to greenhouses or sheds are more commonly found in the UK, but if space is at a premium, this is one look to possibly consider.

The table shed is your traditional-looking shed. It has four walls and a roof that comes to a point in the center. There are all kinds of designs and sizes for this particular style of shed. From a shed built for holding tools to one with windows and a skylight for an outdoor studio, you’ll have all kinds of building options when it comes to a gable shed.

As mentioned earlier, there is the New England style of shed. This is more aesthetic than the actual shape and construction. When you think of a New England house, you might think of wood shingles along the sides of the building, weathered blue paint, and white trim, all with a graying roof. It’s a beautiful look, although it does require more upkeep if you go with the wood. You really can’t replicate the wood shingles with any other material, so if this is what you want to go with, just keep in mind, it will require more repairs, waterproofing, and additional paint jobs throughout its life than most other shed designs.

Lastly, there is what is known as a quaker shed. This is more about the roof than anything else. With a quaker shed, the design typically has doors in the longer wall (instead of, the smaller walls for a gable shed). The quaker shed roof usually comes to a point, but not at the dead center. Instead, the rear half of the roof is longer, and the front-facing slope of the roof is shorter. There might also be a lip that sticks out from under the roof to hold the overhang up. This kind of design gives a few more inches of space between the edge of the front-facing roof and the doors, so if it is raining outside, you can duck under the overhang and avoid the water. But you can add the quaker roof to other shed designs as well.

Begin Customizing Your Shed Today

Now that you know some basics regarding different types of sheds, you will better understand what may or may not work with your particular property. If you still have questions, or you want to know what building materials or sizes will work in your yard, the staff here at Barnyard Utility Buildings is here to help. The best way to answer all your questions is to give us a call. With one phone call, we’ll address your concerns, answer your questions, and even begin with the design of your shed. So, if you’re ready to start turning your dream shed into a reality, now’s the time to call.

Proudly serving customers across North and South Carolina, including Gastonia, NC, Mt. Holly, NC, Chester, SC, Indian Land, SC, and beyond.