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Choosing a garden shed
A good shed can last twenty years or more, a bad one can cause
you a lot of problems. When shopping for a shed it is essential
to buy the best you can afford, the higher the quality of the
materials used, the longer you shed will serve you.
Checklist
If you are considering buying a timber shed check the timber carefully.
Large knots can reduce the strength of the framework, and can
sometimes fall out, creating holes. Make sure, also, that any
metal fittings like nails, bolts and screws are galvanized to
prevent rust. Check display sheds for signs of wear and tear on
fixtures and fittings. Also check for poor workmanship –
irregular gaps between boards, protruding nails or screw heads,
and split timbers are all giveaways. Timber floors are not always
included in the price, so check before you buy.
Standard sizes
When it comes to shed size the best advice is to buy the largest
size you can accommodate, it will provide much more scope for
storage and could even accommodate a bench too. Really think about
what you will be using the shed for. For example, if you want
your shed to double up as a workshop make sure you choose one
with a large window. The standard shed sizes are 1.8 x 1.2m (6
x 8ft), 1.5 x 2.1m (5 x 7ft), 2.4 x 1.8m (8 x 6ft). Most sheds
come with between one and three fixed windows, if you particularly
want an opening window ask a sales assistant, as you may be able
to order one at an extra cost. Check the available head room,
and also the width of the door. Remember you want the door to
be wide enough to wheel in gardening equipment, like wheelbarrows.
If you are on a limited budget or space is at a premium a Wallstore,
typically measuring 0.9 x 0.6m may be your best option.
Choosing a site
Try to visualize what the shed will look like in the position
selected. It is important that there is a solid base for the shed
to stand on – concrete is ideal, although paving slabs can
also be used. Make sure that access will be adequate for the intended
use of the shed as once the base has been laid it is difficult
to change the site.
Construction
A well-constructed shed is essential if you are to avoid problems
developing in a year or two, such as difficulties closing the
door, or leaning walls, especially if the walls are supporting
heavy shelves. Look out for thin floorboards as these are a sign
of poor construction. A good indication that a shed is well constructed
is the number of upright timbers, a large shed should have at
least four uprights across the ends and five along each side.
Make sure the door should is of solid construction, ideally with
three strap hinges. To get a good idea of how strong the shed
is jump up and down and lean heavily against the walls.
Roofing
A shed roof needs to be strong with plenty of overhang. It should
also be covered in heavy-duty, high-grade roofing felt. Stand
inside the shed and push upwards against the roof on one side,
if it flexes it may start to sag in time.
Security
If you are planning to store expensive garden equipment in your
shed choose a model that comes with a sturdy lock or bolt that
cannot be prized off.
Log Cabins
For a luxury shed with great aesthetic appeal and extra character
look out for log cabin style shed that feature thick log cladding
to give an Alpine appearance. Chalet style sheds and summerhouses
also make an attractive, if more expensive alternative.
Metal sheds
Although not as visually appealing as timber sheds metal sheds
are very rigid and are considered to have a really solid construction.
They are also rot, rust, rodent and fireproof and tend to be fairly
secure. One of their greatest advantages is that they are completely
maintenance free. Pre-fabricated timber bases are sold separately.
Green sheds
If you want to do your bit for the environment, look out for sheds
made from timber endorsed by the FSC (Forest Stewardship Council),
an organization that sets standards for improving forest conservation.
The timber can be treated to prevent rot and decay. If an untreated
shed is purchased it should be treated immediately to prevent
decay. Methods of treatment application include pressure treatment,
dipping, brushing and spraying treatments.
Plastic sheds
It is possible to buy small plastic sheds. Easy to assemble and
convenient to use, plastic sheds have the advantage in that they
will never rust or rot.
Feature: Erica Miller, Homebase
Click
here to see a list of UK suppliers of garden structures
