How To Find The Perfect Shed Size

Are you tired of tripping over boxes and bikes in your garage? Is your backyard starting to look like a storage yard instead of a place to relax? If clutter is taking over your space, a steel outdoor shed might be a lifesaver. But which shed size to pick? You can't just simply go and grab one, you see!

Many rush into buying sheds without thinking about their needs, which results in either a too tiny a shed or a larger one that sits on your property, taking up the entire backyard space. That's where our guide comes in. Here, we will take you through easy steps to figure out exactly what size shed you need. We will cover –

• How to choose a shed size?
• What are the most common shed sizes and their uses?
• What are the tips to get it right the first time?

So, let's begin.

Why Does Correct Shed Size Matter?

• If Too Small – Your storage will be cluttered, and the shed won't solve your problem.
• If Too Big – There will be unnecessary expenses, like materials, site prep, and foundation, and it will take up your valuable yard space and may not fit in.

You may also need to file for a permit in some areas. For example, in Austin, Texas, you don't need a permit to install a shed, but you need to follow all building codes [source: AustinTexas.gov].

So, how to find the 'Goldilocks' size?

Assessing Your Needs For Storing Inside A Shed

Think of what you want to store inside to ensure all fits in neatly without wasting space or future regrets.

• Inventory Everything – Make a list of items you plan to store, including seasonal items that may take up more space than you realize. You can include items such as lawnmowers, garden tools, bikes and sports equipment, workshop tools, and patio furniture.
• Categorize And Prioritize – Group similar items together, like all gardening tools, sports gear, etc. Start with what's essential, and then, if you have extra space, you can store less urgent items.
• Think Vertically – Will you be adding shelving, hooks, or overhead storage? Keep this in mind when imagining how the space will look.
• Future-Proofing – Are you planning on buying large items in the next 3 to 5 years? Always factor in a little extra space for future storage.

Common Shed Sizes And Their Uses

We have divided the sheds into four parts so you can choose on the basis of your main purpose and your storage space needs.

1. Small Sheds [6x8, 8x8, 8x10]

What can you store in a small shed?

• Garden tools (Shovels, rakes, pruning shears, and gloves)
• Single lawn mower (push mower or small riding mower)
• Outdoor equipment – (weed trimmer, leaf blower, or pressure washer)
• Pool chemicals – (store pool treatments safely away from direct sun and moisture)
• Trash cans – (keep garbage bins tucked away neatly)

Who can benefit the most from a small steel outdoor shed?

• Homeowners with limited yard space
• If you need a basic storage for everyday tools [Figure 1]
• If you need storage for garden tools and upkeep without cluttering the yard

2. Medium Sheds [10x12, 10x16, 12x12]

What can you store in a medium-sized shed?

• Riding a lawn mower like larger equipment
• Multiple bicycles for families with kids
• Larger garden tools (wheelbarrow, bags of soil, plant food [Figure 2])
• Workbench (for installing a small table for DIY home projects)
• Seasonal furniture (patio cushions, umbrellas, outdoor rugs)
• Holiday decorations (Christmas lights, inflatable yard displays, storage tubs)
• Sports equipment (camping gear, fishing rods, baseball bats)

Who can benefit the most from a medium-sized metal outdoor shed?

• Homeowners who need a mix of storage space for different items.
• One is looking for a small workshop in addition to storage.
• Families with multiple outdoor activities who need seasonal storage.

3. Large Sheds [12x20, 12x24, 14x28]

What can you store in a large shed?

• Small vehicles (ATV, motorcycle, golf cart)
• Extensive workshop (woodworking benches, tool cabinets, power tools)
• Home office or gym (quiet workspace, mini exercise room)
• Significant outdoor equipment (multiple wheelbarrows of livestock farm, heavy-duty farm supplies)
• Building materials (lumber, paint cans, extra tiles)

Who can benefit the most from a large steel shed?

• Hobbyists (for crafts, repairs, or a dedicated workspace)
• Who needs large storage?
• Who needs a functional multi-purpose shed that can be used as an office, personal retreat space [Figure 3], gym, or studio?

4. Extra-Large Sheds [16x32, 16x40, 18x40]

What can you store in an extra-large metal shed?

• Car or truck (some extra-large sheds are big enough for a vehicle)
• Boat storage (kayaks, jet skis, or a small boat protected)
• Large-scale workshop (welding, auto repairs, or heavy machinery)
• Multiple hobby areas (art studio, music space, DIY projects)
• Small business operation (inventory storage or workspace)
• Guest area or tiny home (with insulation, it can be a livable space)

Who can benefit the most from an extra-large steel shed?

• Homeowners with large property space who need large storage.
• Business owners who need a commercial storage solution [Figure 4].
• For converting the shed into a guest cabin.

What's The Difference Between Footprint And Usable Space Of A Building?

A footprint is the outside measurement, while usable space is the inside storage area. So, a 10x12 shed will not have a full 120 sq. ft. of usable space since walls and frames with reduce the space slightly.

How Do You Find The Right Shed Size? Practical Steps

Picking the right shed size takes planning, measuring, and creativity, not just guessing! You can follow these steps to ensure it fits your needs without overwhelming your space.

1. The 'Cardboard Cutout' Method

We highly recommend this method as it is a simple and hands-on way to find out how much space your things will take up inside the steel shed. Here's how you can try it –

• Measure the largest items you want to store inside a shed and write their width, depth, and height.
• Create a mock shed using some painter's tape and cardboard boxes to outline the footprint of your biggest items. Arrange them like you will keep them in the shed and have some room for walking around.
• Once you have this set up, measure the area all items are taking up and add extra room for pathways and doors. This will give you a measure of the minimum size shed that will fit your needs.

2. Consider Door Placement And Size

Will your largest item get through the door? Make sure the door is easy to walk in and out of, and carry items easily without scratching or damaging them. You can choose a double door to make your life easier.

3. Headroom

Consider the height of the shed. How tall are the items you want to store? Also, will you be able to comfortably stand inside without bumping your head? Are you considering adding overhead storage? All this will give you an idea for choosing a roof's eave height that can be between 8 to 14 ft. tall.

4. Zoning And HOA Rules

Before ordering your metal garden shed from a metal building dealer, check your local rules, laws, and regulations. Some places may have stricter rules than others.

For example, some neighborhoods may not allow you to add a large shed, some places may have height restrictions, and some places may ask you to secure a permit before installation.  

Tip: You can check the HOA or your local zoning department for info about shed size and rules.

5. Budget Considerations

The cost of the shed will depend on size, material quality, and extra features. Extra-large sheds may require stronger and deeper foundations and may increase shipping costs due to large amounts of material.

You have to consider the costs of –

• Raw materials
• Site prep
• Foundation
• Shipping
• Installation
• Accessories

Tip: We suggest choosing a metal building dealer who offers shipping and installation service charges included with their final quote for a hassle-free metal shed construction experience.

Don't Waste Space – Pick The Right Shed Size Today!

Getting the right steel shed is not just about square feet; it is about smart planning. Create a list of what you want to store to get a shed size that fits into your life, so instead of squeezing items into it, you will have plenty of space to keep it tidy for today and for the future.

Ready to find your perfect metal outdoor shed? Whether you need a small storage shed for tools and equipment or a spacious workshop, there is a metal shed that will fit your needs like a glove. You can explore your options by searching for metal building dealers online and requesting a free quote. Compare them and get a shed for your needs.