Sheds & Structures

Make the most of your backyard with sheds, playhouses, pergolas and more!

Backyard storage sheds and related options help maximize the use of your yard and garden. Garden storage sheds organize your tools and supplies in one spot. To make your yard a welcoming place, garden playhouses, pergolas, and gazebos support entertaining, leisure and relaxation.

Understanding garden and backyard sheds

Garden and backyard storage sheds come in all shapes, sizes, and materials. You can choose from a variety of yard storage sheds made from wood, metal, and plastic. Wood is a versatile option, but it can require maintenance. Metal is durable and can handle all types of weather but can rust over time if not maintained properly. Composite or plastic is reasonable and withstands rain well but can be damaged from the sun.

You’ll also want to consider what size will work best for you. Garden storage sheds for small yards are as small as 4’x 2’, a great option as an urban tool shed. Larger equipment sheds work well for a larger yard, particularly for storing lawn mowers and other equipment.

Garden sheds are available as flat-packed shed kits that can be delivered to your door.

What to consider when buying a shed

With so many garden storage sheds available, there’s a shed that can meet your needs. The size is important, but if space is a concern, the 8′ x 4′ garden saver storage shed is a good option. If you have a lot of space and need to store equipment, you may want to consider an EZ-fit Homestead Shed. It may be that you’re looking to create garden playhouses for your kids, in which case a larger structure is recommended.

Outdoor sheds need to stand up to all the seasons, so it’s important to consider what shed will work in your region. If there’s a lot of precipitation, a durable cedar shed is recommended. Metal and wood can withstand the test of time when properly maintained.

A shed is a large investment in most cases, so you want to make sure there is a warranty that covers defects. For example, our cedar sheds offer a one-year manufacturer's warranty.

Understanding gazebos

A gazebo is a pavilion-like structure that is often turret-shaped or octagonal, with a full roof that creates a living room in your yard. Great for entertaining, it’s open on all sides with the option of using screens to protect yourself from mosquitoes. Even if it’s raining, you can enjoy sitting in your gazebo.

To furnish a gazebo, consider outdoor couches, chairs, tables, or whatever you want to best enjoy your relaxing outdoor environment. These garden shade structures are often available in different types of wood like Western red cedar. However, there are also gazebos made from aluminum that cost less and are safer around barbecues.

When considering what gazebo is right for you, you’ll have plenty of options for size and shapes. As for the location of your gazebo, choose a space that doesn’t benefit from shade already. If you’re looking for a gazebo to relax in or entertain, you can purchase a large 12' cedar octagon gazebo. If you don’t have a lot of space, there are smaller structures made from aluminum that are square or rectangle. There’s even a small aluminum grill gazebo so you can barbecue in the rain.

Understanding pergolas

Pergolas are different from backyard shade structures because they don’t have a roof. Instead, they have an open framework with vertical posts, supporting cross beams, and an open lattice ceiling. Pergolas offer a magical touch to any garden or backyard that can define paths and functions as a stable platform for climbing plants. As plants start to spread over the top of the structure, pergolas make great garden shade structures and offer filtered light.

Pergolas come in wood, like cedar or redwood, or metal, so when choosing, consider how you want your pergola to look and function. Metal is low-maintenance but not as visually appealing as wood, which offers a more rustic look. You also want to think about the size and where you will locate your pergola. Use larger structures as an outdoor living room that can buffer direct sunlight. To define a pathway, you can have a smaller structure designed to walk through that supports a wisteria vine. Pergolas can have a multitude of purposes and bring a sense of whimsy or comfort to your outdoor space.

Conclusion

Garden sheds are a fantastic way to protect and store any tools you have for the outdoors. It’s easy to move through the seasons when you have the proper storage. For outdoor living, gazebos and pergolas offer an inviting space perfect for relaxing and entertaining.

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