Owners of any size garden – from vast country gardens to city gardens and small gardens – will know that keeping things neat and tidy requires an army of garden tools. Seasoned gardeners will know, too, that these garden tools need homes or else non weather-resistant garden furniture, garden accessories, lawnmowers and scattered trowels are going to become an unfortunate distraction from your planting.

Luckily, there are now plenty of garden storage solutions that are stylish as well as functional. A garden storage box can double as a garden bench if you add a seating pad, garden sheds can parade as eighteenth-century style follies, and bins can be tucked away out of sight in purpose-built bin stores. A small plastic storage box can be easily stored or double as a deck box, while bike stores are great for avid cyclists.

How do I choose the best garden storage?
A good garden storage unit will have enough space to store all your garden tools, lawn mowers, BBQ, sun loungers, wellies, extra seating, hoses and garden accessories. Bigger gardens, which consequently require bigger garden furniture sets and heftier gardening equipment, will require more heavy duty storage solutions like a garden shed, storage unit or bin store. At the other extreme, a deck box, garden storage box or plastic garden box will suffice for small gardens and patios. There are specialist garden storage solutions, too. Bike stores, bin stores or log stores all serve a specific purpose.

The very best forms of garden storage, no matter their size, will be lockable, water-resistant or weatherproof, have easy access and enough storage space to suit your needs. So, whether you need to store garden parasols or children’s’ playthings, or smaller items such as pots and outdoor cushions, we’ve tracked down some of the best garden storage to invest in this year: from miniature garden sheds to lovely looking garden benches.

Where to buy the best garden storage
For a more in depth guide, we suggest heading to our round up of the best garden furniture shops. For at a glance information, garden specialists like Lifetime, YardMaster, Keter and Rowlinson have plenty of garden storage solutions to address specific outdoor needs. Hex Living features heavy duty metal storage boxes.

Finding the right storage solution is paramount to keeping your garden and outdoor spaces summer ready. You just need to know where to look.

Top 5 Storage Solutions

The post Garden Storage Tips – 2022 first appeared on ShedMaster UK | Garden Sheds | Garden Buildings Installations.

Which Garden Sheds are best and how to choose?
While planning to purchase a garden shed, there are a number of things you need to consider before you choose to make sure; a, you get something that meets your needs and b, your get your money’s worth.

Whether you’re looking for a new shed to store in or as a garden office, we’ll cover all of the key points you should consider before you buy.

Types and styles of garden sheds
There are a few different types of sheds to choose from and most people often pick the style which they like the look of (which is absolutely fine), however, they each have their own features and benefits which may sway your decision.

Apex Roof

An Apex shed has a sloping roof that peaks at the centre. Aesthetically they tend to look best when placed as a standalone building i.e. away from walls and fences and due to the extra support of the roof structure, they are often more sturdy than other shed types with flat roofs; this makes them excellent if your shed is going to be placed away from shelter from the elements. Apex sheds are also great for taller owners, with the highest point being across the centre. The roof space also creates additional internal area; excellent for long tools, or suspending items in the roof space.

Pent roof

A Pent shed features a flat roof which gently slopes towards the front or back. If you’re planning on situating your shed against a building, wall or fence then Pent sheds are a great choice as the roofs single slope allows any precipitation to naturally run off and away, minimising any risk of damp and rot..

Dutch Barns

Dutch Barn sheds definitely tick the “looks good” box. A relatively new phenomenon in the UK, these sheds have become a big hit with their distinct gabled roof which and extremely spacious interiors.

Workshops

A garden workshop is essentially a large shed and can have apex, pent or Dutch roofs. Because workshops are larger in size they have ample space for crafting and tinkering. They are also very versatile and often are multi-purpose, for example adding a partition means you could have a storage section and a working section. We have helped create a lot of workspaces for businesses and hobbyists alike.

Summer Houses

Similarly to workshops, summer houses are larger sheds and don’t have a specific roof style. Summer houses are generally used as a garden room, whether it be a quiet place to read, somewhere for guests to stay or your home office. What makes summer houses distinct is they usually have larger windows, allowing more natural light in as well as making it easier for you to admire your garden.

Potting Sheds

Sometimes referred to as gardeners shed, a potting shed is specifically designed for keen gardeners; often used for germinating seedlings and cultivating young plants/vegetables. They are an excellent alternative to a greenhouse, the glazed section of the shed allows in natural light, which heats the internal space, making it the perfect environment for young plants. Although primarily used for horticultural reasons, there is no reason they cannot also be used as a storage solution like a normal Apex of Pent shed.

Features and custom options
Prefabricated sheds are often cheaper however they don’t allow for much if any customisation. Buying made to order not only means you get the exact size you need, but you can request exactly which features you want.

Material options
Another important consideration when choosing your new shed is the material is made from. We make our sheds from wood so we’re naturally going to say wood is the best (which it is), but let’s go over why not all wood is made equal and how it stacks up against the other options.

Wood
Treated or untreated wood
Untreated is cheaper but won’t have any added protection against the elements and wood-boring insects, meaning it’ll decay sooner, require more maintenance and won’t last as long. In contrast, treated wood will have protection against these. There are two main types of treatment, dipped and pressure sealed. Again, dipped is a bit cheaper than pressure, however pressure treated wood is the best option as the treatment goes deeper into the wood, offering better protection and therefore your shed will require less maintenance and last longer. We have a guide here which goes into a bit more detail.

Wood thickness
The impact of wood thickness is pretty straightforward, thicker wood results in a sturdier shed. This means your shed can support more weight and survive whatever the weather throws at it (definitely something to consider now that heavy storms from the Atlantic are becoming more frequent – you don’t want to be chasing your shed around the garden!). Thicker wood sheds are often referred to as ‘heavy-duty’ or ‘super heavy-duty’, but just check their specs before you buy. Many manufacturers use 12mm tongue and groove walls and floor, however, if you’re wanting the best you should be looking around 20mm.

Better insulation
Wood is a natural insulator meaning a wooden shed will be warmer than metal or plastic in the colder months. Again, a thicker wood like 20mm will provide better insulation than a thinner wood.

Aesthetics
Looks are a personal preference; however, most people opt for wood as it is a natural product which sits better in their gardens.

Installation & repairs
Typically, installing a wooden shed is quicker and easier and should you need to replace a damaged panel, you can do just that, rather than having to replace the whole wall. if your DIY skills are lacking we have a professional installation team at hand.

Plastic Sheds

The main draw of plastic sheds is that they are typically cheaper than the other options and for the most part is maintenance-free, it won’t rust, stain or rot. Its usually weighs less which makes moving and erecting a bit easier, however, because its lighter, it doesn’t stand up to heavy winds as well or bear as much weight. In hotter weather it can be a bit turn into a bit of an oven inside and over time in direct sunlight, the plastic can become brittle and crack. Often what put many people off of choosing plastic is that simply looks artificial.

Metal Sheds

Good quality metal sheds are very strong, which makes them great for security. Metal is highly fire-resistant so worth considering if you are going to be working with combustible materials or equipment.

Again we find that most find that metal isn’t as attractive as wood and is usually regarded as being pretty cold.

Good quality metal sheds are usually expensive, but it’s the only way we’d go if we were going with metal as it will have more protection against rust and corrosion.

Concrete

Concrete is the strongest material option and will probably have the longest lifespan. As with metal it’s great for security and is fire resistant.

Whether you consider it a pro or a con, concrete sheds are a permanent addition to your garden, as a result, you will probably need planning permission before you start.

Concrete sheds are difficult to construct for most people, meaning a contractor will need hiring. That combined with the planning permission fees and the cost of materials means concrete sheds are more expensive when compared to the other material options.

Often concrete sheds have an exterior pebbled style, again, aesthetics is a personal choice but many find the pebbled exterior to be a bit of a dated look.

Shed Location

Before you buy, you should also consider where the shed will be sited in your garden, you need to think about having a level base and if your placement will mean you require planning permission.

Also remember to think of how you’re going to use your shed, for example, if you’re wanting to convert your shed into a home office, you’ll need to consider where and how the power supply will get to your shed.

The base
Regardless of the size, style and material option you choose for your shed, have a solid and flat foundation is essential for making sure your shed has a long lifespan. Placing your shed on uneven ground will cause stress in the structure and result in compromised integrity over time.

There are multiple options for shed bases, however, concrete is the best choice. See our guide on the different types of shed bases and the pros and cons of each.

Planning permission
We’ve already covered using concrete to build your shed typically requires planning permission as it is a permanent structure, whereas the others are considered outhouses.

You generally don’t need to request planning permission unless your shed is going to be very tall or takes up over half of your garden.

Specific measurements can vary from council to council so if in doubt, most will have details on their websites.

Distance from walls and fences
If you have the space available in your garden, we’d recommend not placing your shed right up against a fence or wall. Simply as it makes maintenance of your shed much easier.

Placement against walls and fences can sometimes require planning permission, although usually more for against your home, which may require permission, again, check with your local authority for specifics.

The purpose of your shed
Now you know the in’s and out’s of sheds, now its time to match that up to your needs.

Storage
Whether you simply need to store your basic garden tools or summer garden furniture over winter, or kids toys when they are not being used then a basic waterproof (and maybe some insulation) shed could be what you are looking for.

Having a sturdy and affordable garden shed will meet your needs; we would typically recommend the lower cost associated with our Apex or Pent sheds, with the solid build of a heavy-duty frame for both security and peace of mind.

Hobbies and Working
As the name suggests a Workshop is a design for working and tinkering in. Larger in size and built with either heavy-duty or super heavy duty framing, these sheds can be easily insulated to be a great space for working, whether personal or professional.

Recreation and Living
Summer Houses are the perfect choice if you’re looking for a garden retreat to relax with a tipple and a good book as the larger windows provide plenty of natural light and a great view of your garden.

Like the Workshop, converting your Summer House into a garden room by insulating yourself can be a great way to make additional living space and a much lower cost than buying a prefab version, whether you want to a room for guests to stay, or just somewhere that you can enjoy all year round.

Gardening and cultivating plants
The Potting or Gardeners shed is the best option if you’re a keen gardener and need a sheltered place with plenty of light to give your plants the best start in life.

Still have questions?
We hope you have found this article helpful – if you have any other questions or would like our advice about choosing the right shed for your needs, then do get in touch.

Call us on 07720 323744 and we will be happy to discuss.

The post Timber Sheds Tips and Advice – 2022 first appeared on ShedMaster UK | Garden Sheds | Garden Buildings Installations.

Give your timber shed a new natural look or make a striking al fresco statement with our guide to the best paint solutions for your shed
Whether your shed is little more than a repository for garden equipment that barely gets a glance most of the year or it’s your essential go-to oasis from the family, you’ll want to invest in the absolute best shed paint you can afford. There are two excellent reasons for this. First, if you don’t paint it semi-regularly, the shed will rot and fall down. Second, if it rots and falls down, you’ll have to buy a new one and paint that instead.

While the thought of prepping and painting your shed can be less than appealing, if you get it right and use quality paint, you’ll discover that what was once an unpleasant annual affair can become a task that actually requires less frequent attention, with some options offering up to five years’ protection from the weather. Do these cost more? Yes. Is the extra expense worth it? Undoubtedly.

There are various different types of “paint” to choose from, including wood stains, wood varnishes and actual wood paints. Which you choose depends on the finish you want to achieve. Below, you’ll find our recommendations; if you don’t know where to begin, take a look at our comprehensive buying guide immediately below.

How to choose the best shed paint for you

Shed paints – what’s the difference between them?
Wood stains, which are available in a wide range of colours, are for those who want to give their shed protection from the elements while still being able to enjoy the natural grain, as stain penetrates the wood to colour and protect while leaving the grain visible.

Wood varnish also allows the grain to shine through, as this usually clear treatment sits on the surface to form a weatherproof barrier.

Finally, wood paint is the one to go for if you’re looking to make a bolder statement. Usually opaque, wood paint covers up the grain completely, but is available in a range of colours, from unassumingly muted shades to options at the vibrant end of the colour spectrum. Which you choose depends on the finish you want to achieve, so day one of painting your shed begins with a question of aesthetics: natural or not?

I’ve settled on a look, now what?
As with any decorating job, preparation is key. Getting your prep right will not only make things easier but also result in a finer finish.

So, once you’ve decided on your type of treatment, brand and colour, read all the manufacturer’s instructions on how to apply the paint, how long to let it dry between coats and, of course, how many coats are recommended.

Armed with that knowledge, it’s time to sort your shed surface. Use a wire brush to remove any old flaky paint, dust and dirt. Next, mask off any hinges and windows and, depending on how you intend to apply your paint, cover the roof overhang with newspaper (taped on). You’ll also want to use dust sheets to protect the ground where you’re painting, plus any nearby fencing.

Once that’s done, it’s time to paint, so check to see whether a primer or undercoat is called for, and reach for the brush, roller or sprayer, as per the manufacturer’s recommendation. Remember to stir the paint before first use, and several times during the painting process.

I’m all set – anything else?
Of course – health and safety! When dealing with any paint, we strongly suggest the use of protective eyewear, a face mask and decorator’s gloves. It’s also a good idea to plan your painting in conjunction with the weather forecast. Pick a warm, dry day, or you may end up watching your work wash away. Finally, painting can get messy, so it’s probably a good idea not to wear any clothes you’re particularly fond of!

Ronseal One Coat Fence Life: Best shed paint for least work

Yes, it does clearly say “fence” on the tin, but Ronseal One Coat Fence Life is an ideal stain for all manner of rough sawn exterior wood, and suitable for sheds in particular.

Available in six natural colours, including Tudor Oak Black for gardens of a more Goth bent, this stain penetrates the wood to give it excellent protection for up to two years – from both exposure to wet and cold weather and the greying effects of UV light – while allowing the natural grain to show.

Offering up to three years of colour performance and full protection from UV light and the extremes of the elements, the only downside is that, being a little on the thin side, if you’re trying to cover up previous paint, you may need additional coats to achieve your ideal end look. But then, with nine litres at a quid each, you’ve got plenty to work with.

It’s easy to apply using a brush or spray (the latter cutting your labour time by around 50%) and, as the name suggests, unless you’re attempting to cover over a much brighter, contrasting colour, you only need to apply one coat. It’s shower-proof within an hour and fully dry in four.

Wickes Shed & Fence Stain: Best shed stain on a budget

This highly protective treatment from Wickes comes in at just £1 per litre. Cheap as wood chips and available in five nature-aping colours, the formulation goes on easily, whether applied with a brush or a roller. It can be quite runny, though, so be careful not to overload your tool of choice, or you’ll lose half of it to your dust sheets.

As its name suggests, this varnish is so tough it can even withstand the heavy weather-battering it would likely receive at sea. So, a wet winter in the suburbs should pose no problem.

Johnstone’s Woodcare Outdoor Yacht Varnish: Best shed varnish option

Setting aside the stain and paint options, what we have here is a clear varnish that will give the timber of your shed a light gloss look, through which the wood’s grain can clearly be seen.

As always, ensure all surfaces are clean and smooth and sand down any previous varnish before applying the Yacht Varnish with a brush, working with the grain to get a flawless finish. Johnstone recommends a minimum of two coats for best results, so once you’ve waited out the reasonably long drying time, lightly sand down the first coat before starting on the second.

Obviously a time-sensitive job, you’ll need to make sure you have a couple of rain-free days lined up before starting work, but when it’s done your shed will look its natural best and be able to withstand even the wettest waves of weather.

Johnstone’s Garden Colours: Best shed paint for colour options

There is choice, over-choice, then Johnstone’s Garden Colours. This range of paints is perfect for your shed and comes in 20 striking colours, from the almost ghostly Natural Vanilla to the decidedly arresting Merry Berry (not to be confused with the TV cake-enthusiast).

Offering a full four years’ protection from the worst Mother Nature can throw at it, the easy-on formulation requires more effort than Ronseal’s One Coat option above. A single application may be sufficient, depending on the state of your shed, but two coats is probably the minimum requirement. There’s also a longer drying time to contend with, but for anyone looking to make a statement in their garden, courtesy of a richly tinged shed that truly stands out, the result will be worth every extra second.

The post Revive or revamp your timber shed with the perfect wood paint first appeared on ShedMaster UK | Garden Sheds | Garden Buildings Installations.

We’re extremely pleased to announce the launch of our new website! it was time for a fresh new look and I’m sure you’ll agree the result is fantastic!

Our main aims of this website is to replicate the great and thorough service we offer in our installation service whilst offering the products we install to our customers direct.

The new website has a higher level of interaction, with a major design update. It provides a range of easy to access resources and information such videos, manuals and specifications of the sheds that we can supply and install.

Our blog aims to educate and inform our clients as well as highlight projects we have completed.

We hope you are as pleased as we are with the new and fresh website redesign and online shopping integration. We plan on continually keeping our clients updated with anything new..

We encourage that if you have any questions, suggestions or feedback, please contact us.

YardMaster Metal Sheds, ABSCO Metal Sheds, Keter Plastic Sheds, Palram Plastic Sheds , Lifetime Heavy Duty Plastic Sheds

The post Our Website has been updated first appeared on ShedMaster UK | Garden Sheds | Garden Buildings Installations.