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Having a shed is a great way to clean up your backyard, secure your tools and add storage space. But it's important to choose the right one. We'll take you through some things that you need to consider.

Shed types and styles

If you're looking for a shed to place at the back of your garden and fit in with the natural environment, then a cedar garden shed might be a good option. Generally small in size with windows, it's a great place to store garden tools and equipment.

If you want a shed that can be moved around easily, a plastic shed could be for you. Made from high quality plastic, it won't rust, rot and is moisture resistant.

Whereas if you want more of a workspace with lots of benches and storage for your tools, a metal or steel shed will provide you with the safety and security you need. It's also a good choice if you're planning on parking a car, boat, caravan or trailer in there.

Cream shed in backyard surrounded by palms. Door open with lawn mower showing.

Location, location, location

There are a few factors to consider when deciding on the location of your shed. You should start by thinking about the shed's accessibility. If your shed has driveway access, you could back a trailer up to the entrance or even park a car inside it. Another benefit of having easy access to your shed is that it may save you from carrying building supplies and heavy tools around your yard.

Environmental factors in your backyard will also affect where you put your shed. It's a good idea not to place a shed too close to large trees. Roots breaking through your floor can be a problem, as can falling branches from trees in high winds.

You should also try to avoid areas where water pools in your backyard, which can cause problems such as mould, rust or even rising damp.

Try and look for a spot with some partial shade from the summer sun if possible. Too much direct sunlight on shed walls can also be a problem in summer. This may cause a huge build-up of heat that you may find hard to work in.

Dark shed blending in with surrounding fence and plants in front.

Shed foundations

The foundation for your shed is important. We'll take you through a few popular ways to build a foundation for different types of shed. 

A gravel base foundation is a simple, cost-effective choice. You'll need about 3 inches of gravel or crushed rock for a solid base. Make sure that when the shed's in place, you have it anchored down to secure it. However, you need to make sure that your drainage is okay or everything in the shed may get wet.

Using pavers on a bed of brickies sand is a good base for small garden sheds that won't be carrying too much weight. To prevent the shed sinking over time, you can also add a layer of crushed rock underneath the sand to improve the stability.

Laying a concrete slab for a foundation is the strongest and most durable way to secure a shed to the ground and minimise any structural movement. It is also the best way to prevent moisture inside your shed. Although it is more expensive and takes longer to lay, in the long run it will provide you with the most secure results.

Shed accessories

Once your shed is set up, it's time to deck it out. An organised shed helps you to know where everything is and can also protect your tools and things. We've got a huge range of garage storage that can suit your needs and the space you have to fill. Whether it's the slimline range that fits neatly into small spaces or durable storage that's built to last, you're sure to find what you need.

Another good way to use shed space is to hang things on the walls or from the roof. There's a huge range of hooks, shelves and racks available that can help you make more room and clear floor space. You could even add a timber floor to the shed's base to provide you with some extra comfort.

Assortment of tools hanging from shelf.

Check for council restrictions and building codes

When deciding on the size and location of your shed, you need to be aware of which local council restrictions or building codes may be impacted. Small garden sheds are often exempt from council regulations if located in your backyard, but it's always best to check.

Depending on which state you live in, you may need a permit if you're building a shed that is more than 3 metres in height, larger than 10.2m2, within 900mm of a boundary, or is attached to another building.

Get your shed

Check out the full range of sheds available at your local Bunnings.

Health & Safety

Please make sure you use all equipment appropriately and safely when following the advice in these D.I.Y. videos. You need to be familiar with how to use equipment safely and follow the instructions that came with the equipment. If you are unsure, you may feel it is safest to consult an expert, such as the manufacturer or an expert Bunnings Team Member.

Grave health hazards are linked to asbestos, which may be in homes built up to 1990. Health hazards may result from exposure to lead-based paints in older materials and copper chromium arsenic (CCA) treated timber. For information on the dangers of asbestos, lead-based paint and CCA treated timber and tips for dealing with these materials contact your local council's Environmental Health Officer.