Garden Sheds

Gardening by the Yard : Episode GBY-701 -- More Projects »

Every gardener needs a place to store his or her garden tools, and for many the garage is ideal. It's a safe, secure place for storage, and it extends the life of tools and equipment by keeping them out of the weather. However, if you don't want to clutter your garage, a garden shed may be a better storage solution. Garden sheds can be store-bought or custom built, delivered pre-assembled or built on site. The range of models, materials, and sizes is virtually endless.

For small properties, store-bought, heavy-duty plastic sheds may be sufficient. They're fairly inexpensive, lightweight and can withstand the elements for decades.

Metal buildings are more expensive, but they're available in a broader range of sizes. Larger models often feature double doors, which are good if you have large power equipment.

Wooden sheds are the most expensive option but also the most durable.

Custom-built sheds often cost more, and larger models are typically built on site. Sizes and shapes are unlimited, and you can choose the type, style, and placement of windows and doors, the roof pitch and material and the interior features.

Paul James' shed measures 10 by 20 feet and includes a five-foot deck, swing-out windows, Dutch door, and metal roof. It has sturdy six-square-inch cedar posts on the porch.

The interior is organized so that all of James' tools are within easy reach.

Master gardener Paul James chose to custom-build a wooden shed to house all of his tools and equipment. "The materials include a mix of treated lumber and rough-sawn cedar," says James, "which means that the shed should still be around long after I'm gone."

Tool hangers are available in plastic, wood, or metal and can be light-duty or heavy-duty. Some screw in the wall, some mount on pegboard and others hang from roof rafters.

Wooden hangers with evenly spaced dowels are economical and versatile, hold a variety of tools and support a considerable amount of weight.

James chose wooden hangers with dowels to hang his tools all around the interior walls. Of course, one of the cheapest and most versatile hangers for smaller tools is a simple nail.

Also in this Episode

Gardening by the Yard : Episode GBY-701
•	Garden Sheds
•	Community Gardening
•	Winter Composting
•	Birds and Housekeeping

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Garden Sheds

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