Sheds—whether metal buildings or constructed from wood—can provide ideal storage space for any home or property. These backyard structures are incredibly versatile—they can be used as storage for garden equipment, as a workspace, or even as a personal retreat. Regardless of any shed’s purpose, homeowners first have to select which type of shed and construction material is best for their needs.
The primary material consideration is typically a metal shed vs. wooden shed, though you may also find plastic sheds for sale at the big box home improvement stores. All of these types of material can provide durable, spacious storage, but they differ in their required maintenance, vulnerability to pests and weather, possible customization, and costs.
Today’s post takes a look at wood-constructed sheds compared to the durable steel buildings we sell here at Newmart Builders, highlighting why our buildings are almost always the best choice.
Wooden Sheds
Wooden sheds have a long history, and so are the more traditional option available to homeowners today. They can be built to resemble a house’s color scheme and style. They have shingled roofing that can also match that of the house.
Pro: Wood Shed Structures are Easy to Customize
Depending upon how much money homeowners want to spend, wooden sheds can even be two stories. And, single-story wooden sheds can have a loft for extra storage. Wooden sheds can easily be customized and can be constructed with many additional features, including shelving, cabinetry, extra windows, shutters, and flower boxes.
Cons: Wooden Sheds are Susceptible to Damage and Expensive
Because wooden sheds are made of wood, they are unfortunately susceptible to rot from moisture, damage from insects, and destruction by fire. Wooden sheds require quite a bit of regular maintenance, too. Both the interior and exterior will need to be repainted or stained every few years, and the roof, being shingled, will need to be replaced every 15 years.
Wooden sheds may be the most traditional and perhaps versatile option, but they are also by far the most expensive. Not only are they costly to construct, but also, because of the ongoing maintenance, they are expensive to maintain.
Why Metal Sheds Are Generally a Better Option
Not that long ago, metal sheds were limited in style options—they were grey and drab, and the kits available from hardware stores were flimsy and cheap. Thankfully, times have changed, and modern metal sheds available from specialty sales resources like Newmart Builders are made from high-quality steel that is super strong and durable.
If it’s been a while since you’ve shopped metal outbuildings, you will do well to give them another look as a backyard shed option. You will find steel buildings to offer a wide range of customization options to suit your design and storage needs, as well as affordable pricing.
Metal sheds made from high-grade steel can be constructed in a range of sizes and can be customized to suit any homeowner’s planned use and property. Like wooden sheds, metal sheds now come in any color scheme to better match the primary house. They can also have extra windows, doors, and even skylights, making them both more functional and attractive.
No matter what the climate, metal sheds can provide durable protection. When properly secured, they can withstand winds from category three hurricanes. Their roofs can support heavy snowfall.
Because they are made of high-grade steel, metal outbuildings resist rust even in regions of heavy rain. Additionally, metal sheds are impervious to insect damage and resistant to fire. They also do not need to be repainted every few years, which means this type of shed is virtually maintenance-free.
Everyone wants a shed that looks great, provides secure and durable storage, and lasts a long time. Both wooden and metal sheds can do this, but metal sheds can do it for a fraction of the cost.
Ready to Purchase a Better Backyard Shed Structure?
For more information about metal outbuilding versus their frame-constructed competition, or to discover the best structure for your needs, get in touch with us at Newmart Builders today.