Backyard Storage Sheds Comparison & Buying Guide

November 5, 2025
Two stylish backyard storage sheds displayed on a split background, promoting a guide that compares designs and features of backyard storage sheds.

 

Why Backyard Storage Sheds Matter for Your Property

Backyard storage sheds are more than a place to stash a mower. They’re how you reclaim your garage, simplify your life, and add real function to your home. If you’ve felt the stress of tripping over tools or stacking holiday bins to the ceiling, you’re not alone.

We’ve helped thousands of families across Utah, Idaho, Nebraska, and Iowa eliminate that frustration with structures that last.

Why Choose Wright’s Shed Co. for Your Backyard Storage Shed

We’re Wright’s Shed Co., proudly building custom backyard storage sheds on-site since 1997. You’ll find our Vineyard, Orchard, Farm, and Lean-To models in neighborhoods across the Mountain West and Midwest, each one built to last with craftsmanship you can feel.

Our sheds go beyond simple storage. Homeowners love transforming them into:

  • Workshops for DIY projects and hobbies
  • Home offices for focused, distraction-free work
  • Personal retreats for relaxation or creative space

The outdoor storage industry continues to expand, growing from $6.5 billion in 2021 to a projected $10.2 billion by 2030. Today’s homeowners are using sheds for far more than storage, about 40% use them for traditional storage, 25% for workshops, 20% for home offices, 10% for hobby or she-shed spaces, and 5% for specialty uses like gardening or small livestock care.

This demand shows how valuable a versatile, well-built shed can be. A quality shed not only adds function but also enhances curb appeal and overall property value. As Realtor.com notes, a shed that’s well-placed, durable, and visually cohesive with your home’s design can spark greater buyer interest.

Infographic showing outdoor storage market growth from $6.5 billion in 2021 to $10.2 billion by 2030, with uses like workshops and home offices.

Where many folks get burned is with flimsy kits that look good on paper but don’t stand up to weather or the weight of real life. We hear it all the time: thin walls, spongy floors, warped doors. That’s not what we build.

Our sheds are constructed on-site, tailored to your property, and wrapped in premium materials, like LP SmartSide panel siding that carries a 50-year limited warranty from the manufacturer on the panel siding, so they perform year after year.

We’ve put our name on every shed since 1997 because we build them like they’re going on our own properties. Below, we’ll help you choose the right style, size, and options to get exactly what you need, without overbuying or settling for less.

Decoding the World of Backyard Storage Sheds: Types and Styles

When we say backyard storage sheds, we mean a purpose-built, standalone structure designed to protect your belongings from sun, rain, and snow – and do it with style. A shed should feel like a natural extension of your home and your routines. If you need space for vehicles, a Detached Garages project is the better fit; if you need flexible, multi-use space for gear and projects, a shed is your sweet spot.

Our Core Styles, Built On-Site For a Precise Fit

Vineyard Shed (Gable roof)

  • Clean, classic lines that complement most neighborhoods.
  • Great everyday storage with a smart footprint and balanced headroom.

Orchard Shed (Gable roof)

  • Similar timeless profile with layout flexibility for windows and doors.
  • Popular for tool storage, lawn equipment, and hobby organization.

Farm Shed (Gambrel roof)

  • Barn-style roofline adds generous overhead volume.
  • Ideal when you want extra vertical storage or a more traditional look.

Lean-To Shed (Single-slope roof)

  • Slim, space-saving design that tucks neatly along a fence or house.
  • Perfect for compact backyards or dedicated storage zones like firewood.

Black lean-to backyard storage shed with tall windows and wood trim, built on a gravel base and surrounded by grass and landscaping stones.

We build the vast majority of our structures on-site. That means we tailor your shed to the contours of your property, work around gates and landscaping, and leave you with a finished, durable structure that looks like it belongs. For hands-on homeowners, we also offer DIY Shed Kits with pre-cut materials and detailed instructions.

The Traditional Shed vs. a Detached Garage

  • Traditional Backyard Storage Sheds are ideal for storing lawn tools, outdoor gear, or creating a small hobby or workspace. They offer flexibility without taking up too much room.
  • Detached Garages provide more space for vehicles, equipment, and heavy-duty storage. Each one is built on-site with the same craftsmanship and care that go into our sheds.

When deciding between the two, think about how you’ll use the space. Choose a shed if you want a versatile, organized area without the scale or cost of a full garage. Our team will help you find the perfect model to match your property and lifestyle.

The Foundation of Quality in Backyard Storage Sheds: Materials and Key Features

After building thousands of backyard storage sheds since 1997, we’ve learned this simple truth: materials and build quality determine whether your shed becomes a dependable asset or a short-term fix. We invest in the right materials, and we build on-site to make sure your structure stands square, sheds weather, and works the way you need it to.

Why We Build With Engineered Wood Siding (LP SmartSide Panel Siding)

We use LP SmartSide panel siding because it brings the timeless look of wood together with engineered durability. It’s designed to resist moisture and decay and is backed by a 50-year limited warranty from the manufacturer on the panel siding itself.

What this means for you:

  • A classic, residential look that blends with your home.
  • Tough exterior surfaces built to handle sun, wind, and snow.
  • Long-term confidence thanks to a factory-backed warranty on the panel siding.

How Our Sheds Compare to Common Alternatives

Aspect Wood Sheds (Our Specialty) Metal Sheds Resin/Vinyl Sheds
Look & feel Warm, residential; customizable Industrial; limited colorways Plastic-like; limited customization
Strength Robust framing; solid fasteners Light panels; can dent Lightweight; can flex or crack
Adaptability Windows, doors, layout flexibility Less flexible Less flexible
Longevity Excellent with maintenance Good, can dent/corrode Good vs. rot; UV/temperature limits

We focus on wood-frame sheds with engineered wood panel siding because they deliver the best balance of curb appeal, customization, and resilience for our climate.

Must-Have Features for Everyday Use

Not every property needs the same setup, but most homeowners value these essentials:

  • Solid framing and a stable footprint: Built on-site for a square, true structure that resists racking.
  • Smart door choices: Ample access with single or double doors to fit your equipment.
  • Thoughtful daylighting: Windows positioned for natural light and sightlines; great for workspaces.
  • Reliable ventilation: Helps reduce moisture buildup and protect stored items from condensation.
  • Roofing to match your home: We offer roofing options to complement neighborhood aesthetics and weather demands.

About Foundations: What We Recommend

A level, well-drained base is non-negotiable for long-term performance. While we do not build foundations, we provide expert guidance so your site is ready for us to construct your shed or garage on schedule.

Builder working on a wooden frame set over a compacted gravel pad foundation, preparing the base for a backyard storage shed.

Common solutions:

  1. Compacted gravel pad: Excellent drainage, typically 4–6 inches thick and wider than the shed footprint.
  2. Concrete slab: A permanent option often chosen for Detached Garages and larger structures.

A sound base protects your investment and helps doors operate smoothly in every season.

Getting the Right Fit With Backyard Storage Sheds: Sizing, Placement, and Planning

“What size shed do I really need?” is the most common and smartest question we get. If it’s too small, you’ll outgrow it by spring. Too big, and you may run into setback rules or overwhelm your outdoor space. The sweet spot depends on what you’ll store today and how your needs might grow over the next few years.

A Simple Sizing Game Plan

  • Small (under 80 sq. ft.): Great for garden tools, push mowers, hoses, and compact storage. Our Lean-To shines in tight corridors or along a fence line.
  • Medium (80–120 sq. ft.): The everyday sweet spot. A Vineyard or Orchard handles a riding mower, bins, and room to move.
  • Large (120+ sq. ft.): Ideal for workshops, hobby spaces, or bigger equipment. The Farm Shed’s gambrel profile increases overhead volume. For vehicles or bigger needs, consider our custom Detached Garages.

Tip: Most customers are happiest going one size larger than their initial estimate. It’s easier to organize when everything isn’t wall-to-wall.

Permits and Local Requirements

Many municipalities allow smaller sheds without a permit up to a size limit, but setbacks and height rules still apply. Always check with your city or county before you build. The International Code Council publishes widely referenced codes, but your local ordinances are what matter.

We’ll help you ask the right questions:

  • Do I need a permit for my size and height?
  • What are the setback distances from property lines and easements?
  • Are HOA approvals required?

Your Installation Journey: Step by Step

1. Site readiness and foundation

We’ll guide you on preparing a compacted gravel pad or concrete slab. We don’t build the foundation itself, but we’ll help you get it right.

2. On-site construction

Our crews arrive with materials and build your shed piece-by-piece on your property for a precision fit.

3. Final details

Doors aligned, trim set, and your space swept clean. You end with a finished structure that’s ready to use.

For do-it-yourselfers, our DIY Shed Kits include pre-cut materials and instructions, making it simpler to build a shed that meets our quality expectations, on your schedule.

Maximizing Value With Backyard Storage Sheds: Costs & Care

A well-planned shed is an investment in everyday convenience and long-term usefulness. It’s easier to keep your home and yard tidy when everything has a place. And when it looks great from the street, it contributes to overall curb appeal, something buyers notice when it’s time to sell.

What Drives the Cost of Backyard Storage Sheds

Every project is unique, but a few factors influence the final price:

  • Size: Square footage is the biggest driver.
  • Style: Rooflines like the gambrel Farm Shed require more materials and labor than simple gables.
  • Materials: Engineered wood panel siding (LP SmartSide) offers long-term durability and curb appeal.
  • Options: Windows, door configurations, ramps, and interior organization.
  • Site prep: The cost to create a gravel pad or concrete slab is separate from the shed itself.

We offer flexible rent-to-own options to make it easier to get the right storage solution in place without delaying your whole project plan.

Simple Care, Lasting Performance

Backyard storage sheds built with engineered wood panel siding are made to deliver years of reliable use. With a little care, they’ll stay in great shape, just wash off dust and pollen a few times a year, repaint when needed based on your climate and color, and check the caulking occasionally for touch-ups.

We design every shed to be sturdy from day one and easy to maintain, so you can enjoy your space instead of spending time maintaining it.

Green backyard shed beside a call-to-action banner encouraging users to compare top backyard storage sheds and view pricing options.

Frequently Asked Questions About Backyard Storage Sheds

What size backyard storage shed do I need?

Start by measuring the space you have and think about how you’ll use the shed. If you’re storing lawn tools or bikes you might need a smaller size like 6×6 ft. If you want workshop space, go larger (e.g., 8 × 10 ft).

Do I need a permit for a backyard shed?

Check with your local building department. Many areas allow smaller sheds without permits, but setbacks and height rules still apply. Your local code prevails even if national model codes suggest otherwise.

What’s the best foundation for a shed?

A compacted gravel pad offers excellent drainage. A concrete slab is a permanent option, common for larger structures and garages. We don’t build foundations, but we’ll guide you on specs so your site is ready.

How long will my shed last?

Longevity comes from materials and construction. Engineered wood panel siding (LP SmartSide) includes a 50-year limited warranty on the panel siding. With routine care, a well-built shed serves your home for many years.

Can I convert a shed into an office or workshop?

Absolutely. Many customers add daylighting and access to create functional work or hobby space. We’ll help you think through layout, placement, and options.

Your Next Step: Backyard Storage Sheds Built to Fit Your Life

We’ve covered how to choose the right style, size, and site for your backyard storage sheds, and how quality materials and on-site construction protect your investment. Now it’s your turn to decide what life looks like when the garage is clear, the yard is organized, and your projects finally have a home.

Since 1997, we’ve built Vineyard, Orchard, Farm, and Lean-To sheds across Utah, Idaho, Nebraska, and Iowa, plus DIY Shed Kits, Detached Garages, and practical Chicken Coops. We don’t build foundations, but we’ll give you expert guidance so your site is ready. And we’ll build your structure on-site with the care we’d expect at our own homes.

If you’re ready to stop stepping around stuff and start enjoying your space, we’re ready to help. Tell us what’s going in your shed, how you’ll use it, and where it’ll live, we’ll take it from there. Contact us!

I hope you enjoy reading this blog post.

Call Wright Sheds today for a fast and hassle-free experience!