A shed is typically a simple, single-story structure in a back garden or on an allotment that is used for storage, hobbies, as a workshop or an office. However, sheds used on farms or in industry can be large.

Sheds vary considerably in the complexity of their construction and their size, from small open-sided tin-roofed structures to large Wood-Framed Sheds with shingled roofs, windows, and electrical outlets.

Do it Yourself Storage Sheds

The simplest, least expensive sheds are available in kit form. Both shed kits and "do-it-yourself" plans are available for wooden sheds. To learn how to assemble your shed visit the Assembling a Shed page.

Sheds are used to store home and garden tools and equipment such as push lawn mowers, lawn tractors, and gardening supplies.

In addition, sheds can be used to store items or products that are not suitable for indoor storage, such as gasoline, pesticides, or herbicides.

A popular style for smaller storage sheds is the gambrel-style roof, which whimsically resemble a Dutch-style barn, and the high sloping roof line increases storage space in the 'loft'. Both gable and saltbox style sheds are gaining in popularity.

To find out more about Garden Storage visit the Garden Storage page.

Large Wood Sheds and Cabins

Larger, more expensive sheds are typically constructed of wood and include features typically found in house construction, such as windows, a shingled roof, and electrical outlets. Larger sheds provide more space for engaging in hobbies such as Gardening, small engine repair, or tinkering.

Some sheds have small porches or include furniture, which allows them to be used for relaxation purposes. In some cases, teleworkers and home workers in general who live in mild climates use small- to medium-sized wooden garden sheds as outdoor offices.

There is now a growing industry in providing off the peg garden offices to cater for this demand, particularly in the UK but also in the US.

Shed Design Features

Shed owners can customize wooden sheds to match the features (e.g., siding, trim, etc.) of the main house. A number of decorative options can be added to sheds, such as dormers, shutters, flowerboxes, finials, and weathervanes.

As well, practical options can be added such as benches, ramps, ventilation systems (e.g., in cases where a swimming pool heater is installed in a shed), and electric lighting. Sheds designed for gardening; called "potting sheds", often feature windows or skylights for illumination, ventilation grilles, and a potter's bench for mixing soil and re-potting plants.