A backyard shed is one of those purchases that pays for itself almost immediately. Whether you need extra storage, a workshop, a home gym, or even a she-shed retreat, the right shed transforms how you use your outdoor space.
But sheds aren't one-size-fits-all. Here's how to choose the right one.
What Will You Use It For?
Before you start shopping, be honest about what the shed is for:
- Storage only — Garden tools, bikes, holiday decorations, overflow from the garage. You need basic square footage and weather protection.
- Workshop — Woodworking, crafts, repairs. You need a larger space with good headroom, natural light, and ideally electricity.
- Home gym — Weights, cardio equipment, yoga space. Focus on ventilation, flooring, and ceiling height.
- Office or retreat — A quiet space to work or relax. Insulation, windows, and finishing matter more.
Your use case determines the size, features, and budget.
Choosing the Right Size
| Size | Best For | Typical Price (Retail) |
|---|---|---|
| 4×6 to 6×8 ft | Garden tools, small items | $400–$800 |
| 8×10 ft | General storage, bikes | $800–$1,500 |
| 10×12 ft | Workshop, home gym | $1,500–$3,000 |
| 12×16 ft+ | Multi-use, office | $3,000–$6,000+ |
Rule of thumb: Buy one size larger than you think you need. You will fill it.
Materials: Wood, Metal, or Resin?
Wood sheds look the best and are the most customizable. They require periodic sealing/staining to prevent rot. Best for permanent installations where aesthetics matter.
Metal sheds are the most durable against pests and fire. They can get hot in summer and are prone to condensation. Best for pure storage.
Resin/plastic sheds are maintenance-free and resist rot, rust, and insects. They're lighter and easier to assemble. Best for low-maintenance storage.
Assembly: DIY or Professional?
Most sheds we sell come as kits with step-by-step instructions. A typical 8×10 shed takes two people 4–6 hours to assemble.
Tips for DIY assembly:
- Prepare a level surface first — gravel pad, concrete slab, or treated wood platform
- Have a second person available — many panels are too large for one person
- Read all instructions before starting — don't wing it
- Pre-sort all hardware before you begin
How to Save on Sheds
Retail sheds are expensive because they're bulky and costly to ship. That's exactly why they end up in liquidation.
At Francis Retail, we regularly stock sheds from major brands at 40–70% off retail. An 8×10 resin shed that retails for $1,200 might be in our warehouse for $500–$700.
What to look for in liquidation sheds:
- Check that all hardware and panels are included (we verify this before listing)
- "Open box" sheds are often returns where someone changed their mind — the shed itself is perfect
- Minor box damage doesn't affect the shed inside
Visit Our Warehouse
We stock sheds in our Santa Fe Springs warehouse at 13544 Imperial Highway, Suite B. Come see them in person — these are large items that benefit from an in-person look before buying.
Browse our outdoor section online at francisretail.com/collections/sheds-storage.
Have questions about a specific shed? Call (562) 568-8883 or contact us online.