When it comes to building or buying an outdoor shed, determining the most suitable type of material is perhaps challenging. At times, it can be confusing due to the common features that the popular materials share. 

To prevent confusion and overcome the challenge of making the right decision, buyers consider a couple of factors. One of these factors is durability, which is perhaps the most important one. There are three materials that seem to promise good durability.

Let’s check them out and differentiate them based on their pros and cons.  

Wood

Wood is the first material using which sheds were made. Wooden sheds are, thus, the most traditional options known for their rustic appearance, enhancing the feel of any area. 

Typically manufactured using pressure-treated wood and framing lumber, these sheds are fully customizable to get the desired size and shape as well as the internal ambiance. The resulting varieties are just unimaginable and adaptable to any décor or surroundings, just as the Aston Sheds.  

Wood is considered strong and durable. When it comes to sheds, this is ensured without anchoring them to the ground.

It is easy to adorn them with distinct add-ons, such as cupolas. Several shelves and cabinets can hang from the overhead areas and walls to fulfill the need for an additional storage area. Nevertheless, the interior shall look unfinished if there are no actual walls with exposed beams and braces. 

If left unfinished, cleaning and maintenance can be tough. One more limitation of these sheds is that they are costlier than other durable materials considering that the size is the same. 

The paint finish on the wooden surface is likely to fade with time, and that harsh weather, fire, water, and bugs can deteriorate these sheds if maintenance is not proper. If the latter is assured, wooden structures are known to last for several years to come. 

Metal 

Galvanized aluminum or steel makes up a metal shed. Available for several years, metal sheds are preferred over their wooden counterparts by those who are looking for a low-maintenance model. This is because, unlike wood, metal is affordable and resistant to harsh elements, fire, rot, and bugs.

On the flip side, metal sheds grab the third position when measured on the scale of strength. It is wood and resin that supersede metal. It is also difficult to assemble a metal shed, considering its weight.

In other words, it is indispensable to invest in an anchoring kit for installing a metal shed in a windy region so that it remains intact in its place. Further, these sheds are vulnerable to rusting and denting.

The options are also fewer when it comes to shapes, sizes, and customizations. Although available in a myriad of colors, these sheds need regular repainting to retain a fresh appearance. 

Thus, metal sheds are not for those who love to have attractive, customizable models. They are not designed for those who want to work inside, like visual appeal, and prefer easy setup/assembly. 

Resin/Vinyl

Resin is considered more inexpensive, adaptable, and maintainable than metal and wood. It provides the most advantages of the latter two materials while tackling the major drawbacks of each. This is why it is becoming a popular material for building outdoor sheds. 

Resin sheds are composed of high-quality, high-density polyethylene plastic that makes them lighter but stronger and more lasting than their wooden counterparts. To ensure optimal strength, some models come with steel supports and a double-wall structure. 

Unlike wooden sheds, resin sheds are eco-friendly as well as maintenance-free. The buyers are also ensured of protection from the harmful UV rays and resistance from stains, meaning no fading, cracking, rusting, or rotting. 

Further, there is no need for painting, which is unlike sheds made using wood or metal. Resin sheds come in a myriad of sizes. Many models are also customizable, as it is possible to expand them from their current dimensions. 

In terms of assembly, these sheds are perhaps the easiest ones. Buyers can build a resin shed easily as well as quickly with less effort, time, tools, and know-how than a wooden shed. These sheds are also more affordable than their wooden equivalents but costlier than metal sheds.  

With the wood-textured surface and neutral colors, resin sheds look beautiful. However, it is impossible to paint them to gel perfectly with your house. Nevertheless, they are adaptable to add-ons such as skylights, shelves, and windows without any additional significant effort. 

Although very strong, resin sheds are unable to tolerate the weight of suspended items from the walls, unlike wooden sheds. As an exception, some models do have an overhead area for storing more items.

Conclusion

Metal is only recommended for storage purposes. Resin seems to be the best option if you can let go of maximum customization and additional storage. Wood is the right choice for enjoying customization, additional storage, and visual appeal.