DIY Or Premade Shed: Which Is Right For You And Your Backyard?

It's official -– not one more thing is going to fit inside the garage. Sports equipment, garden tools, and other maintenance implements all need a place, and at this point, the garage isn't it. Or maybe you just need one more defined living area? Clearly, it's time for a shed. But what's right for you and your backyard -– something premade or a more DIY solution?

Factors in your thinking should include durability, safety, materials, and your skill set with power tools. Then, what's the plan for your shed? Strictly storage? An elaborate private she-shed/man cave retreat? Or something in between? Do you need electricity inside? Shelving? Running water and drainage? Two additional elements to think about are your money and your time.

There's no way we can tell you what will work best for your home and family, but we can offer some thoughts regarding next steps. First, purpose. If it's basic storage, one way to go is a super simple shed with a truss (steepled) roof made from nothing more than 2 x 4s and covered with a tarp for a shed or heavy-duty plastic sheeting for a greenhouse. On the opposite end of the spectrum is the she-shed/man cave, a private retreat that requires walls, a door, probably windows and possibly plumbing and electricity. If your vision includes something more upscale, it's time to start browsing for creative ways to use a shed in your backyard.

We've mentioned costs regarding building a shed from scratch. Consider the project's size, since the larger the shed, the more material you'll need. Also think about your climate; northern locations may need to consider weatherproofing the exterior with sealants. Unless you're truly a hands-on person, figure in labor costs, and check to see if your community requires a permit to build.

Estimates for building a shed run from $1,000 to $15,000 depending on the size and materials used. A 4 x 7-foot structure can cost as little as $100 to $1,000, while a 12 x 16-foot shed could cost from $2,500 to $15,000. Breaking that down further, the average self-built shed runs $10 to $150 per square foot. If building a shed is a project you want to take on with your own two hands, you have options here. If you don't want to draw your own plan, blueprints are available online and at the library. Trips to the lumberyard for materials and hardware might be your thing, but you can also purchase pre-made kits online.

Most DIY sheds are made from wood, both sturdy and affordable, but some are made from metal. Another option is a prefab resin shed kit that you assemble, but you still need basic tools. A 6 x 4 resin shed may be under $400, while an 8 x 10 shed costs about $1,200. Building your own shed means you have total control over the design, materials, and embellishments. Most experts indicate that if you have the time and patience –- and the skill set –- building your own shed is slightly less expensive than buying and installing a finished shed.

However, the next consideration is not only your money but your time. Building your own design is great if you have the skills, and just as importantly, the hours to devote to clearing the land, building a foundation/slab, erecting the shed, and adding the interior you desire. If, on the other hand, you just need a space for storage or relaxing, a pre-made, fully functioning shed may be the way to go.

As with DIY sheds, materials range from wood to metal, resin to custom materials. Again, costs depend on size. Costco, Home Depot, Amazon, and Lowe's all offer sheds, as do local craftsmen and home improvement specialists in your area. The average already-made shed hovers around $3,350. Costs here include delivery, installation, and again, potentially permits. However, many professionally made sheds come with a warranty, which can be a cost savings on its own.

No matter what you decide about your shed, from basic to elaborate, from hand-made, packaged kit, or purchased right off the lot, you determine the size, shape, colors, and details. (Hint: shed kits can be painted.) Don't forget to spend a moment on enhancing your yard, since shed landscaping is a thing that adds value to your home. You may even be interested in adding flower boxes or shutters to the structure, not to mention the possibility of pavers, a fire-pit, canopy or awning, pathway, deck, garden beds and more.