Building a Shed vs Buying One

A well-designed shed is an investment in your home’s value, organization, and even its charm. Think of it as a little retreat tucked away in your backyard. Need extra storage? Done. A dedicated study space? Absolutely. A cozy escape for reading, crafting, or simply getting a moment of peace? Why not! With the right design, it can even double as a home office, a workout nook, or a guest hideaway. A shed can save you money in the long run by keeping expensive equipment like lawnmowers, bicycles, and power tools protected from the elements. Instead of paying for off-site storage, a shed offers secure, convenient space right in your own backyard. Whether you need a spot for firewood, a DIY workshop, or even an extra outdoor room, deciding between building a shed vs buying a pre-made one is an important decision.

Pros of Buying a Shed

Convenience & Time-Saving

When you purchase a pre-built shed from a home improvement store or manufacturer, you skip the hassle of designing, sourcing materials, and assembling it yourself. Many retailers even offer delivery and installation, so you don’t have to lift a finger. Pre-built sheds remove the guesswork for a faster turnaround. This is ideal for homeowners who need a shed quickly and don’t have the time or expertise to build one.

Professional Quality & Durability

Shed manufacturers use high-quality materials and professional techniques to ensure durability and weather resistance. Many sheds are engineered to meet local building codes and withstand wind and snow loads. Factory-built sheds often come with warranties, offering protection against defects. Higher-end sheds include treated wood, weather-resistant coatings, and reinforced structures, which can be hard for a DIYer to match. Buying a shed from a trusted manufacturer ensures long-term reliability with minimal maintenance.

Variety of Options & Customization

Buying a shed doesn’t mean settling for a generic design. Many retailers offer a range of styles, materials, and sizes to fit your needs and aesthetic preferences. Some companies even provide customization, including extra windows, insulation, electrical outlets, and built-in shelving. Metal, vinyl, plastic, and composite sheds offer alternatives to traditional wood. However, when weighing the cost of building a shed vs buying, keep in mind that customization can significantly increase the price.

Cons of Buying a Shed

Higher Cost

One of the main drawbacks of buying a pre-built shed is the price. You’re not just paying for materials but also labor, design, transportation, and installation. While a small, basic shed might be affordable, larger or highly customized ones can cost significantly more than a DIY build. Some retailers charge extra for delivery, permitting, and installation. Understanding the cost to build a shed vs buying one can help you decide what’s best for your budget.

Limited Customization

While many retailers offer customization, there may still be limits on size, layout, or materials. Some pre-built sheds come with standard features, so you might have to compromise on certain design aspects. Altering a pre-built shed later—like adding windows, skylights, or insulation—can be expensive and complicated. If you have specific needs, buying a shed may not offer the flexibility of a DIY build.

Pros of Building a Shed

Cost Savings (Potentially)

If you have the tools and skills, building a shed yourself can be much cheaper than buying one. You only pay for materials, avoiding labor costs associated with pre-built sheds. You can shop around for the best deals and even use reclaimed materials to cut costs. While expenses vary depending on size and materials, homeowners who already have construction tools can build a shed for a fraction of the cost of buying one. The cost of building a shed vs buying depends on factors like material choice, complexity, and labor.

Complete Design Control & Customization

A DIY shed allows you to design it exactly how you want. You choose the dimensions, layout, materials, roof-style, doors, and additional features like shelving, workbenches, or insulation. You can build it to match your home’s aesthetic, ensuring a seamless backyard look. This level of control lets you create a shed that meets your exact storage or workspace needs. When considering build vs buy shed options, customization is a major factor.

Cons of Building a Shed

Time-Consuming & Labor-Intensive

Building a shed from scratch takes time. From designing and buying materials to measuring, cutting, assembling, and finishing, the process can take days or even weeks, depending on the complexity. If you’re inexperienced, mistakes can lead to delays and extra costs. Unexpected issues, like incorrect measurements or structural misalignment, may require costly rework. Weighing the time commitment in building vs buying a shed is key to making the right decision.

Requires Tools & Expertise

Unless you’re an experienced DIYer, building a shed requires specific tools and basic construction knowledge. You’ll need a saw, drill, hammer, level, measuring tape, and possibly a cement mixer for a concrete base. Inexperienced builders may struggle with structural integrity, leading to durability and safety concerns. Poor craftsmanship can result in leaks, weak supports, or a shed that doesn’t hold up over time, requiring future repairs. Comparing build vs buy shed options includes assessing the necessary tools and skills for each approach.

Permit & Code Compliance Challenges

Before building a shed, check your local zoning laws. Some areas have strict regulations on shed size, placement, and materials. Meeting these requirements can be time-consuming, whereas pre-built sheds may already comply with local codes. Failing to get the right permits can lead to fines, removal, or costly modifications. The cost to build a shed vs buying must also factor in permits and compliance requirements.

Factors That Affect the Cost to Build a Shed vs Buying

Several factors influence the overall cost of building a shed vs buying, whether you choose to build or buy.

Shed Size

Larger sheds require more materials and labor, increasing costs. A small 6×8 shed is much cheaper than a 12×16 or larger shed, whether bought or built. The cost to build a shed vs buying varies significantly based on size and complexity.

Materials Used

Wood is durable but costly, while metal and vinyl are more affordable and low-maintenance. High-end materials like composite wood or insulated panels add to durability and cost. The cost of building a shed vs buying depends largely on the materials selected.

Foundation Type

A gravel base is budget-friendly, while a concrete slab is durable but more expensive. Wooden foundations are cheaper but may need more maintenance over time.

Customization Options

Extra features like windows, shelving, insulation, or wiring increase the price. The more customized the shed, the higher the cost, regardless of whether it’s built or bought.

Labor Costs

When comparing building vs buying a shed, labor is a key factor. Building a shed yourself saves labor costs but requires tools and time. Hiring professionals or buying a pre-built shed adds to the expense.

Find a home that checks all your boxes with the help of REMAX. Whether you’re looking for extra storage, a workshop, or space to build your dream shed, an experienced REMAX agent will guide you to the right property. Start your search today!