Equipment, tools, pots, potting soil and even boxes with flower bulbs: tool sheds offer the necessary storage space for garden accessories etc. We summarize the most important information on the topic and explain which variants are available to choose from.
Foto: Shutterstock / LIGHTITUP
Tool shed vs. garden shed: The comparison
The terms “tool shed” and “garden shed” are often confused. The two building types actually look very similar. However, upon closer inspection, several important differences can be seen.
A garden house offers additional living space and houses work or hobby rooms. That’s why many garden houses are made to measure and in most cases you need a building permit. The house has a foundation, solid floor, windows and interior walls.
In contrast, tool sheds are a functional addition to the garden. Sensitive potted plants are overwintered and seeds and bulbs are stored in the small-format storage rooms. Lawn mowers etc. also find a place protected from the weather there in the winter months and are then conveniently within reach in the summer.
Since the tool sheds are smaller than garden sheds and do not have any lounges, they do not, in principle, require a building permit. Most models are prefabricated, have windows and can also be used as workshops.
Of course, there are also hybrid variants that can be converted as needed and desired.
Tool shed guide: The most important things in brief
Foto: Shutterstock / Chrislofotos
It’s not just the size and model of the shed that plays a role when purchasing. The material, roof shape and equipment should also be chosen carefully.
The materials at a glance
Metal is a robust and easy-care material that defies sun and frost. The time-consuming and laborious sealing process is completely eliminated; all you need to clean it is water and a little detergent. If you want to buy a metal shed, it is best to choose a model with a flat roof and cover it with greenery. The earth layer ensures good thermal insulation in winter and offers heat protection in summer. Photo: Shutterstock / klikkipetra Plastic houses are easy to maintain, quick to assemble and inexpensive. However, the material becomes brittle in a few years and is less robust compared to metal. What speaks in favor of a plastic house is its low weight – it can be easily moved if necessary. Compared to metal and plastic, wood requires significantly more maintenance. However, it scores points with better insulation properties and an attractive appearance. The natural material fits harmoniously into any garden. Hybrid models made of wood look inviting and cozy and are often converted into garden houses by hobby gardeners. A wooden house can be equipped with wall shelves, tool bars or perforated walls as desired.
The shape of the roof
Foto: Shutterstock / Chrislofotos
You can find garden houses with different roof shapes in stores. Common examples are:
1. The flat roof adds a modern touch and is ideal for minimalist metal houses.
2. A pitched roof/or gable roof is the best solution for regions with high snow loads. Thanks to the slope, the snow slides off. Rainwater is also drained away quickly. Inside, the sloping roof offers even more space for shelves or for hanging pots and flower boxes.
3. The hipped roof is particularly stable and can withstand even strong wind and rain. However, it is more expensive than the other variants.
Equipment
Photo: Shutterstock / clickpetra
The wall thickness can vary between 19mm and 70mm. Basically, the thicker the wall, the more robust and winter-proof the tool shed is. If the house is only used as storage space for garden tools, then a wall thickness of 28 mm is sufficient. For safe wintering of frost-sensitive plants and for storing flower bulbs, a wall thickness of 40 mm is optimal. If the house is used as a home office or guest house all year round, then a wall thickness of at least 70 mm is recommended.
For glazing You can choose between acrylic glass, real glass and insulating glass. Art glass windows are very popular, especially because they are very durable. Although the surface is shatterproof, it can be scratched. When cleaned with alcohol, artificial glass also becomes blind. As long as you clean the acrylic glass gently with just water, it is the best option for outdoor use.
The doors: Even a small shed will benefit from large sliding or bi-fold doors. This gives you quick access to all stored tools and equipment.
Tool shed in the garden: conclusion
Garden equipment, tools and plants can be stored comfortably and protected from the weather in the tool shed. But it can do even more: in summer the house is converted into a workshop, in winter it offers storage space for firewood, garden furniture and even bicycles.
There are a few things you should consider when buying: In addition to the material, the features also play a crucial role in the longevity of the construction. Fortunately, there are numerous variants to choose from in stores so that everyone can find the right one.