Shed Refresh Week: How to Choose the Right Shed (Size, Material, Base)

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TL;DR Size Cheatsheet

• 6×4 ft: tools & garden essentials (small patios)
• 7×5 ft: adds bike + tools (most small gardens)
• 8×6 ft: bikes + tools + a little workspace
• 10×8 ft+: hobby/workbench or multi-use

Popular UK shed sizes often include 6×4, 7×5, 8×6, with smaller options from 3×3 up — so measure your footprint first and leave door clearance.

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Step 1 — Measure before you buy

Tape out the footprint and walk the door swing. Check headroom and roof overhangs near fences. Plan a solid, level base (pavers, concrete, or base panels).

Tip: Mark the footprint with chalk or painter’s tape and take a photo — you’ll use it to sense-check door placement later.

Step 2 — Pick your material

Wooden (classic look, easy to customise)

• Pros: warm aesthetic; easy to insulate/shelve; ideal for hobby/workshop
• Consider: periodic treatment; watch for damp at ground contact
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Metal (low-maintenance, secure)

• Pros: tough, weather-resistant; minimal upkeep; great value
• Consider: needs a solid base; condensate management
• Browse metal (#ad)

Plastic/Resin (maintenance-light, quick assembly)

• Pros: won’t rot; easy to clean; bright interiors
• Consider: anchoring in exposed spots; limited heavy wall-mounting
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Step 3 — Doors, windows & roof style

Apex = classic look & central headroom. Pent = modern profile & rear-to-front runoff. Double doors help with bikes/mowers; windows add light but reduce privacy.

Step 4 — Don’t skip the base

Metal sheds in particular usually don’t include a floor — they need to be anchored to a solid, level base; check the product page and FAQs.

Editor Picks (quick compare)

Pick	Best for	Why it’s good	Shop
6×4 Wooden Apex	Small patios & tools	Classic look, easy to customise	Shop
7×5 Wooden	Add a bike	Extra width for bikes + shelving	Shop
Metal Slim Store (≈5×3)	Tight side return	Secure & low-maintenance	Shop
Plastic 6×4	Low upkeep	Bright, wipe-clean interior	Shop
Bike Storage	2–4 bikes	Compact, purpose-built	Shop

Base & install checklist

• Solid base done (pavers/concrete/plastic grids)
• Anchors/ground fixings ready (esp. for metal)
• Door orientation clear (fence/gate clearance)
• First treatment date noted (if timber)

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