The Pros and Cons of Metal Sheds

Pros and cons of metal sheds

Looking to get the job done on time and on budget?

Like wood sheds, metal sheds have sat in many yards for years.

Maybe unfairly they have developed a reputation for being the cheaper option. And although they still are great value, recently they have had a face-lift or two.

Nowadays, the coatings and build quality are better than ever (generally). And metal sheds are seeing a resurgence in popularity, and not only in peoples yards.

Metal sheds are particularly popular with shed manufacturers, and metal is the choice material for large warehouses. But just because it is popular, does that make it a good material for the shed in your yard?

To answer that question we have put together a list of the pros and cons of metal sheds, so you can make up your own mind. Enjoy.

Pros	Cons
Great value for money	Tough to modify
Long lasting (if installed properly)	Prone to rust and corrosion
Little maintenance required	Feel a little flimsy compared to others
Easy to Assemble	Appearance
Small metal sheds are light enough to be moved

The PROS of Metal Sheds

1. Great Value for Money

Metal is a cheap shed material available, which makes it a popular choice with home owners worldwide.

2. Long Lasting

Being metal though it does have its strengths. It will not rot, or be affected by the heat, excess sunlight or cold temperatures. This allows you to place a metal shed in fully exposed areas of your yard.

Metal is not used on its own much these days. It is coated in vinyl and or galvanized to make it long lasting. You can expect your metal shed to look good for 10+ years straight out of the box.

3. Little Maintenance Required

Metal sheds do not require painting, or sanding or pest control like wooden sheds do. The only maintenance issues are typically with rust and corrosion, which don’t require much action.

4. Resists Extreme Temperatures

Metal is strong in the heat or cold which means it wont distort or warp under different conditions. Metal sheds can also be reinforced against strong winds, (typically an added extra.)

5. Easy to Assemble

Metal sheds all come in pre-cut and pre-drilled kits, making instillation relatively easy. Although not all instructions are created equal, the assembly of metal sheds is doable for even occasional

6. Small Metal Sheds are Easy to Move

If you are thinking of moving, or you are renting then a small metal shed can do the job. They are cheap and can be moved in the bed of a pickup quite easily.

The CONS of Metal Sheds

1. Metal is Tough to Modify

Modifying a metal shed is not a DIYer’s job. It can require some serious tools such as welders, sheet folders and angle grinders. Because of this putting a window in a shed can be too hard for the average home owner, and either gets put in the too hard basket, or involves replacing the whole shed.

Tip – Buy a little larger than you need.

2. Prone to Rust and Corrosion

Although metal sheds are durable and are getting better at being long lasting, they are still susceptible to rust and corrosion. Rust looks terrible, it eats away at metal like a cancer and it’s inevitable when you have a shed exposed to the elements like most are.

Tip – When purchasing a tin shed is sure it is rust resistant and carries a warranty against rust.

3. Feels a Little Flimsy

Metal sheds selling point is usually the price. This focus on price can lead us to buy sheds because we can afford them, not because of their quality. Flimsyness is usually due to a thin gauge metal sheet being used to line the shed.

Tip – If you are able to compare in person or on the specification, also check the gauge of the metal being used. The thicker and heavier, the better.

Appearance

Metal sheds look clean but aren't the nicest looking sheds. To combat this, metal shed manufacturers are now lining the outside of their sheds with PVC or Vinyl coating which does enhance the appearance.