Sometimes our garages get full to the brim, which always leads us to get extra storage space outdoors. One way out is acquiring a shed. Sheds are house-like structures placed outdoors in the backyard to keep tools and lawn equipment secure and covered.
Probably you own a shed, the ancient wood one, and it is now wearing out. If you intend to get a new one and maintain it, I suggest you go for a plastic shed.
Are Plastic Sheds Any Good?
Plastic sheds are exceptionally good value for your investment because of their functionality and what they provide. Plastic sheds are weather-resistant, durable, and lightweight, making more people attracted to them. However, sometimes they can be more expansive.
But why are plastic sheds expensive? The moulding prices surpass that of timber. But with vinyl as the plastic material, quality is non-negotiable. Moreover, you won’t consider the price as such if there is value in the long run.
Most manufacturers use vinyl (PVC) or high-density polyethylene (HDPE) to make plastic sheds. They are UV-resistant and durable synthetic polymers that are light and effortless to move when shifting or moving to a new home. Vinyl plastic sheds endure tough outdoor weather conditions.
Sometimes, you might be tempted to repaint your plastic shed to your favorite color. It is not a sustainable solution to paint a plastic shed because it will not bond well with the paint. It is essential to note that plastic sheds keep their color even during the harsh summer conditions, so there will be close to no urge to repaint your plastic shed.
Assembling a plastic shed at home is easy. You only need the help of your handyman or your friend. you only have to follow the assembly instructions attached by the manufacturer and you will have your plastic shed upright in no time.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Plastic Sheds
Advantages of plastic sheds
Durable
The plastic materials used to make the plastic sheds are weatherproof and make a robust outdoor storage structure. The plastic sheds last longer, and the resin does not fade away faster.
The thick paneling model ensures the shed is insulated, a feature that helps control the temperature and thwart humidity.
PVC and HDPE plastic provide shed panels that are robust and last longer. They often resist harsh weather conditions. For a stronger structure, consider reinforcing the plastic shed with a steel structure. This way, the plastic shed can last for up to ten years.
Weather-resistant
Plastic sheds are resistant to cold and hot climates due to their construction and materials. HDPE and PVC vinyl plastic has stood the test of extreme weather conditions. Plastic sheds are resistant to weather conditions such as heat and cold, sun rays, snow and water, and rain and wind. Plastic sheds are no longer brittle and sag during cold and hot weather conditions, respectively.
Many people deem plastic sheds weatherproof because they are made of waterproof panels. Your tools and other materials are safe because no extreme weather conditions will interfere with them.
However, plastic sheds are not fireproof, and even though they are made of fire-retardant materials. They are combustible. Placing them near fire is a costly risk.
Close to no maintenance costs
Plastic sheds are nearly maintenance-free, unlike timber or metal. You will not have to get worried over rots or pests, painting, replacing shingles, and staining and treating the wood. Plastic sheds stick together, thereby making an impermeable assembly. An impermeable structure blocks water, therefore, limiting the damage to the shed.
Because there is no damp, no rodents are having a good time in the shed. The panels fit so close, leaving minimal gaps in the walls, so the rodents do not have a slide in through space. When you think of plastic sheds, also think of timber maintenance costs.
However, this is not an excuse to ignore cleaning the shed. Use a pressure washer or a bucket of warm soapy water to clean the dirt from the plastic shed’s surface.
Trendy
The current plastic sheds are trendy and stylish. The plastic sheds have responded to the current world technology advancements, and now the manufacturers are developing sheds with shutters, slate roofs, and arched windows. The trends make it possible to acquire a plastic shed that matches your backyard without compromising style.
Worth buying
Plastics are valuable because of their functionality. Plastic sheds are enduring, durable, and weatherproof. However, they might be costly to acquire depending on their prices due to their production costs. You will get quality products with close to no maintenance costs.
Flexible
Depending on the size, you can use plastic sheds for almost everything that is compatible. They are ideal for storage purposes for tools such as garden equipment and lawnmowers. However, you can use large plastic sheds as a playroom or home office.
Disadvantages of plastic sheds
Plastic sheds, just like any other equipment, have some disadvantages. They include:
Security
Many people are concerned about how they can keep the plastic sheds secure and their tools safe. An average plastic shed is lockable since they have shutters, and you can use a padlock. But when buying a plastic shed, ensure to inquire about the amount of force the plastic shed can sustain before it breaks or the door force opens.
While buying, make sure to also ask about issues with spare parts and costs. I would recommend you go for plastic sheds that are steel-reinforced and have steel locks. You will find most plastic sheds reinforced with steel.
Tricky assembling
Putting a plastic shed together at home can be a tussle if you don’t follow the instructions as directed by the manufacturers. If you miss instructions, the doors may be disproportionate and may not close.
Some tips for an outstanding assembly of plastic sheds
- Plastic sheds require an even flat foundation
- Employ WD40 or dish soap on the wall’s bottom over the piece of plastic shed that clicks in.
- Plastic sheds expand due to heat thereby do not assemble in the sun; otherwise, some parts may not fit in. Ensure you work under a shade when assembling the plastic shed to make it strong.
- Maximally fasten the plastic shed if you are expecting the wind to strike sometimes later.
Strength
Plastic sheds are resistant to snow, ice, and rains; however, they are poorly resistant to winds. Naturally, plastics are light, and winds can easily blow away any plastic materials. If your plastic sheds are snapped together, the winds may scatter them apart.
However, the manufacturers are making plastic sheds that can resist wind effects nowadays, but you also have to anchor them properly on the ground.
Kindly consider buying plastic sheds that are steel reinforced in the walls and roof.
Restricted size
The largest plastic shed is 15×8 feet. Numerous people buy plastic sheds because they are affordable and convenient. However, most plastic sheds are 8×6 feet which may not be enough for all the tools and equipment you want to store.
If you require a large shed, consider buying a wooden or meat shed.
Metal Sheds Vs. Plastic Sheds
| Metal Sheds | Plastic Sheds |
| More secure if reinforced with concrete | Lightweight plastics are safer |
| Needs frequent maintenance because of corrosion and rust | Requires close to no maintenance |
| Simple metal sheds are cheaper | Heavy-duty plastic sheds are expensive |
| Metal sheds possess a pent roof; however, water still enters at the base | Weather-resistant except for wind many a time |
Wooden Sheds Vs. Plastic Sheds
| Wooden Sheds | Plastic Sheds |
| Expensive | Cheaper |
| Lasts longer if maintained correctly | It may not last longer than ten years |
| Durable and can endure severe storms | Weather-resistant except for wind if not properly reinforced with steel |
| Requires maintenance, for instance, wood treatment and paint | Close to no maintenance costs |
| Rustic appearance | Stylish and modern |
| You can customize it into some unique appearances | Low maintenance costs mean that you cannot customize the sheds |
Preparing Your Garden for a Plastic Shed
You have to prepare a suitable base for your plastic shed, especially for HDPE plastic sheds. However, you may regret doing it on an uneven leveled base.
Plastic sheds require a concrete and flat-paved base. I would recommend you consider using the foundation kit that comes with the plastic shed.
You may also consider anchoring the plastic shed on the elevated timber subfloor or a concrete slab.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do plastic sheds break down?
No, plastic sheds are not affected by rot, rust, or corrosion and are weather and UV resistant.
Are plastic sheds environmentally friendly?
You can recycle the plastic sheds. Plus, they don’t need to use non-degradable chemicals to treat and clean them.
What’s the average price of a plastic shed?
You need a minimum of $540 to acquire one.
Are plastic sheds rodent-proof?
Plastic sheds are established and assembled in a way that they do not have cracks and other openings that allow the ingress of rodents.
Are plastic sheds fireproof?
The majority of plastic sheds are created from fire retardant plastic. However, you should note that all plastics are combustible and so apply caution near a fire.
Fundamental Takeaways
- Plastic sheds bear close to no maintenance costs
- Plastic sheds last longer
- Their prices are competitive
- It would be best if you always preferred steel-reinforced plastic sheds
- Plastic sheds need concrete or a leveled-up base. You may also anchor them on elevated timber subfloors.
- Weather-resistant and immune to rodents, rots, corrosion, and rust
Therefore, whether plastic sheds are good entirely depends on your preference, budget, space, and needs. The article only informs on the positives and negatives of plastic sheds. You have the authority to choose what best fits your needs and meets your preference.