Sheds are normally small buildings that are placed in a backyard that can be used for hobbies, workshops or storage. Most people who have sheds built often customize them depending on their needs. They are customized by adding windows, ventilation, shelves, electrical outlets and the like.

They differ in size and in difficulty of construction.

Garden sheds are normally made of steel secured to a frame.

These sheds are ideal for storing lawn and garden equipment or for adding a little extra storage for your home. Corner, vertical, horizontal and tool sheds are just some examples. Adding shelves and hooks to your shed will give you the most storage space.

Wood sheds are typically larger than garden sheds and more expensive. The construction of these sheds resembles that of a house and includes windows, a shingled roof and electrical outlets. Used mainly for hobbies and even outdoor offices, they are ideal for relaxing and working in.

Owners of sheds can make them match their house by adding shutters, flowerboxes, finials, and weathervanes. Air conditioning, heat, furniture and ventilation can be added as well.

Sheds can have several different uses.

Garden sheds store lawn and garden equipment. They may also have shelving for potting plants and the like.

Bike sheds can be as simple as a building with three sides and roof to more complex versions with doors that lock.

Boat sheds are built to house boats and any related items.

Agricultural sheds have several purposes. Some are used for storing hay, farm equipment or housing livestock. Sheds that have an open face are normally used for horses and cattle.

Railway sheds include several types of sheds. Locomotives and goods are stored in these.

Sheds can be made of metal, plastic, wood or vinyl. Regardless of the material they are made of, each has benefits and pitfalls.

Metal sheds are fire and termite-resistant; however, they rust and can be damaged by high wind.

Metal sheds are a good choice when you want something that will last for awhile. As with anything made of metal, eventually they do start to rust.

Plastic sheds are U. V. Light resistant and are cheaper than metal sheds. Plastic sheds are more durable and stable. You can add peg-boards, shelving, attic-storage, windows, skylights and other accessories.

Wooden sheds blend in well with landscaping. Boards on a wood shed will start to rot, split, warp. Sheds made of wood require frequent maintenance. Staining, painting and weather treating are required quite often for wooden sheds. While they may be beautiful, they can be almost as time consuming as maintaining a garden or your yard.

Vinyl-sided sheds do not need to be painted and are the strongest ones available. Vinyl sheds are also the most expensive. They don't rust, rot and require no maintenance.

At the beginning of the 20th century and on up to the middle, most sheds contained asbestos. After the discovery that this material can cause cancer, it was discontinued and many were torn down.

Men seem to love their sheds because it gives them a place to go where they are less likely to be bothered.