sheds

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Steps to Choosing the Right Kind of Shed

Create a functional, inviting space that brings cooking, hosting, and outdoor living together.

A garden shed is an important part of any outdoor space. It can be used for storage, gardening, hobbies, or as a dedicated workspace. Yet many sheds end up becoming forgotten dumping grounds simply because they weren’t the right fit to begin with.

Choosing the right shed from the start helps ensure it stays useful, functional, and something you’re proud to have in your yard. Here are a few key considerations to help you make the right choice.

Start by Identifying Its Use

The first step in choosing the right shed is deciding how you plan to use it.

If you’ll be using your shed frequently, you may want easy access, solid pathways, and enough interior space to move around comfortably. A shed used for gardening may be best located near your garden beds or greenhouse, while a general storage shed can be placed farther from the house.

Think about how often you’ll access the shed and what you’ll store inside. Items like lawnmowers or barbecues may only be used seasonally, while tools and supplies might be accessed weekly. Your usage will directly influence the size, placement, and design of your shed.

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Choose the Right Material for Your Shed

Most garden sheds are made from wood, metal, or vinyl, each with its own benefits.

Wood sheds are popular for their natural appearance and ability to blend into outdoor spaces. They are versatile and customizable, though they do require periodic maintenance.

Metal and vinyl sheds are often lower maintenance options and can be more resistant to moisture, but they may not offer the same warmth or aesthetic appeal as wood.

When choosing a material, consider your climate, maintenance preferences, and how the shed will complement the rest of your yard.

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Concealing Your Shed (or Helping It Blend In)

Some homeowners prefer their shed to blend quietly into the landscape rather than stand out.

One option is to stain or paint your shed in darker or natural tones so it fades into the background. Adding trellises, climbing plants, or surrounding landscaping can also soften its appearance.

Green roofs are another growing trend. These involve planting low-maintenance vegetation on the roof, which can help with insulation while visually integrating the shed into the garden.

Sheds as Showpieces

For others, the shed is meant to be a feature rather than something hidden away.

Decorative sheds can act as focal points in a garden and even double as hobby rooms, studios, or quiet retreats. Details like windows, trim, painted finishes, and thoughtful placement can transform a shed into an intentional part of your outdoor design.

If space is limited, compact sheds or wall-mounted storage solutions can still offer functionality without overwhelming the yard.

Consider the Security of Your Shed

Security is especially important if you plan to store valuable tools or equipment.

Look for sheds with solid doors, quality hardware, and lockable entry points. Placing the shed within view of the house or adding exterior lighting can also help deter unwanted access.

Taking security into account early ensures your shed remains a safe and practical storage solution for years to come.

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sheds, Western Red Cedar

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Wooden Shed or Plastic Shed?

Understanding the Differences in Durability, Sustainability, and Long-Term Value!

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8×8 Western Red Cedar – Gardener Shed Outdoor Living Today Cedar Shed Kit 6

When choosing a garden shed, material matters more than many homeowners realize. While size and style often get the most attention, the material your shed is made from plays a major role in how long it lasts, how it performs outdoors, and how it impacts the environment.

Two of the most common options are wooden sheds and plastic sheds. While both serve basic storage needs, they differ significantly in sustainability, durability, maintenance, and overall value.

This guide breaks down those differences so you can make a confident, informed decision.

Why Shed Material Choice Matters

A shed isn’t just a storage box — it’s a permanent outdoor structure exposed to moisture, temperature swings, UV rays, and seasonal wear. The right material will:

  1. Stand up to weather year after year
  2. Maintain structural integrity over time
  3. Reduce long-term replacement and maintenance costs
  4. Align with environmental and sustainability values

Understanding what goes into each material helps avoid costly surprises down the road.

Wood vs Plastic Sheds: A High-Level Comparison

Wooden Sheds

  1. Made from natural, renewable materials
  2. Can act as a carbon sink
  3. Offer strength, rigidity, and customization
  4. Age naturally and can be refinished or repaired

Plastic Sheds

  1. Manufactured from petroleum-based products
  2. Lightweight and low-maintenance initially
  3. Limited repair options if damaged
  4. Prone to UV degradation over time

🌲 Sustainability and Environmental Impact

Wood: A Renewable, Carbon-Storing Material

Wood is one of the most environmentally responsible building materials available when sourced correctly. Trees naturally absorb carbon dioxide as they grow, storing carbon within their fibers.

When wood is harvested and turned into a shed, that carbon remains locked in the product for the duration of its lifespan. This makes wood a natural carbon sink.

Additionally:

  1. Wood requires less energy to process than plastic or metal
  2. It is biodegradable and recyclable at end of life
  3. Responsibly sourced wood supports managed forests

Plastic: High Emissions and Difficult Recycling

Plastic sheds are produced using fossil fuels and energy-intensive manufacturing processes. During production, large amounts of CO₂ are released directly into the atmosphere.

Other concerns include:

  1. Plastic is difficult and costly to recycle
  2. Many plastic sheds end up in landfills at end of life
  3. UV exposure can cause brittleness and fading over time

From a sustainability perspective, plastic sheds carry a significantly larger environmental footprint.

Durability and Long-Term Performance

Wooden Sheds

A well-constructed wooden shed can last for decades when properly designed and maintained. Certain wood species naturally resist rot, moisture, and insects, making them especially well-suited for outdoor use.

Key advantages:

  1. Strong structural performance
  2. Naturally breathable material
  3. Can be repaired, reinforced, or refinished
  4. Handles temperature changes without cracking

Wood sheds also maintain their appearance better over time, developing character rather than looking worn or brittle.

Plastic Sheds

Plastic sheds are often marketed as “maintenance-free,” but that doesn’t always mean long-lasting.

Common issues include:

  1. Warping or cracking in extreme heat or cold
  2. UV degradation leading to brittleness
  3. Limited load-bearing strength
  4. Difficulty repairing damage once it occurs

While plastic sheds may perform adequately in mild conditions, they often struggle in harsher climates.

Final Thoughts: Which Shed Is Right for You?

If your priority is:

  1. Long-term durability
  2. Environmental responsibility
  3. Structural strength
  4. Natural aesthetics

A wooden shed is the stronger long-term investment.

Plastic sheds may offer convenience upfront, but when factoring in lifespan, sustainability, and repairability, wood consistently delivers greater overall value.

Choosing the right shed material ensures your outdoor space stays functional, attractive, and reliable for years to come.

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How to, sheds

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How to Prepare the Ground for the New Shed

Create a functional, inviting space that brings cooking, hosting, and outdoor living together.

Congratulations! You have finally bought the DIY garden shed kit and you are ready to prepare the ground for the new shed. The Western Red Cedar panels will last a long time and naturally resist pests. The shed will be functional, but it also can turn into a focal point of your garden, as long as you go about the installation process correctly.

You can use your garden shed to store your gardening implements, but you also can use it as a hobby room, your private escape, game room for kids, or anything else you can think of. This multi-functional space extends your living space outdoors and if you add insulation, you can use it round the year beyond being just a storage place for your gardening tools, grass/plant seed, and implements.

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Prepare the Ground for the New Shed

The first thing that you need to do to prepare the ground for the new shed is to level the surface. You can do this by first putting in concrete, timber decking, or a garden slab. If you don’t do this, it could result in the garden shed warping, broken windows and even damage to the wood.

Even if you use the shed base that comes with the DIY garden shed kit, the ground would still have to be levelled and the rubble removed. It is prudent to install a weed-proof membrane before placing the shed’s base to prevent weeds and grass from growing and damaging the floor and walls of the shed.

Before adding extras, focus on the core components that make an outdoor kitchen functional and enjoyable.

Putting the Base for Your Garden Shed

There are many ways you can create the base for your garden shed. Some of them are as follows:

  • Concrete Base: If you intend installing a concrete base, make sure it levelled, flat, and dry before you erect the shed. Use string and pegs to mark the area where you want the garden shed. Dig a hole, about 15 cm deep, and place a wooden framework into which you will be pouring the concrete. Place a layer of stone, about 7 cm and then pour in the cement concrete mix. Spread it out evenly, level it, and let it set.

  • Garden Paving Slabs: If you don’t feel like pouring concrete in your garden, go with garden paving slabs. This too requires you to remove about 7 cm of the topsoil. Then add 4 cm of cement and place the garden slabs on the wet cement. Let the cement dry, so that the slabs are firmly fixed and then erect your garden shed.

Once the essentials are in place, focus on surfaces and workflow.

Mistakes to Avoid When Erecting Your Garden Shed

Some homeowners make mistakes when they prepare the ground for the new shed. This can result in damage to the shed and also be dangerous for you and others. Some mistakes that you should avoid making are:

  • Unstable base: Refrain from laying garden slabs on loosely arranged gravel. This will not create a stable base for your garden shed and can result in the wood warping and getting damaged. Remember, you are using a DIY garden shed kit and hence, it is necessary, you make the base firm and stable for your own safety. Think of your house, would you want your house being on a weak foundation?
  • Not clearing rubble: If you don’t clean the rubble, garden debris, dead leaves, and garden detritus from the ground, you will not have a hard-standing base. It is important you clear the ground completely before you start laying the base for your shed.
  • Not using weed-proof membrane: Timber decking base is often the preferred base, as it gives the shed a more natural appearance. However, if you intend using a timber decking as a hard-standing for your garden shed, make it a point to first clear and level the ground and then place a weed-proof membrane between the ground and the timber base.
  • Using dirt, lawn or gravel for the base: Never attempt to erect your garden shed directly on bare ground, gravel, or lawn. This could damage the wood panels due to moisture from the ground and also lead to warping and subsidence.

Final Thoughts

DIY garden shed kits come with pre-cut Western Red Cedar wood panels. This means you will not have to spend time cutting the wood and making holes in it. The kit has illustrated instructions along with the necessary hardware. However, you will need another person to help you assemble the pieces and erect the shed. And, all garden shed kits will recommend installing the base. So make sure you educate yourself on the different types of bases that can be used with your shed and then select one that best suits your needs and budget.

Remember without ground preparation, you risk damaging your garden shed and also causing injury to yourself and others, as the shed may not be as sturdy as you think it is. So prepare your garden first before you erect your shed. Choose the location carefully and then prep the surface the right way to enjoy the benefits offered by a garden shed. Don’t be afraid to ask for some help. You do not want your shed slowing falling apart in the years to come. That will just invoke one conversation after another that you do not want to have with anyone who sees it.

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How to, playhouse kits, sheds

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How to Stain Your Shed or Playhouse

Staining your shed or playhouse helps protect the wood, enhance its natural beauty, and extend its lifespan. If your structure is made from Western Red Cedar, you’re already starting with a durable, naturally rot-resistant material. The right stain and timing will help keep it looking great for years to come.

Below is a simple, step-by-step guide to staining your shed or playhouse the right way.

Faron Ellis Sunshed Lethbridge 2024 fall scaled
3 sheds.garden
Colorful playhouse with green slide.
Sunflower Playhouse F. Thomas scaled 1 768x1024 1

Before Your Shed or Playhouse Arrives

Western Red Cedar will begin to weather and turn a silvery gray within a few weeks of sun exposure. If you want to preserve the fresh cedar look, plan ahead.

Before assembly:

  1. Store the kit in a dry, shaded area
  2. Keep it covered and protected from rain and direct sunlight
  3. Allow airflow so moisture doesn’t get trapped

This gives you the flexibility to stain before or after assembly.

Learn more about cedar weathering here:
https://www.realcedar.com/why-cedar/weathering/

After Your Shed or Playhouse Arrives

Once your kit is delivered:

  1. Remove plastic wrapping so the wood can breathe
  2. Sort pieces by section (walls, roof panels, trim)
  3. Allow the wood to acclimate to your local climate before staining

If storing outdoors temporarily, keep pieces covered but ventilated.

Choosing the Right Stain

Stains protect cedar while allowing the wood grain to show through. The three most common options are:

Solid-Color Stain

  1. Offers the most UV protection
  2. Covers the wood grain
  3. Acts like a paint-style barrier

Semi-Transparent Stain

  1. Enhances natural cedar color
  2. Allows wood grain to show
  3. Provides good UV and moisture protection

Transparent Stain

  1. Preserves the most natural look
  2. Light protection, requires more frequent re-application

When to Stain: Before or After Assembly?

Staining Before Assembly (Recommended)

Pros:

  1. Easier access to all sides of the wood
  2. Better protection on hidden surfaces
  3. More comfortable working position

Best pieces to stain before assembly:

  1. Wall panels
  2. Roof panels
  3. Trim and fascia
  4. Skirting boards

Interior roof panels do not need to be stained.

Staining After Assembly

  1. Uses less stain
  2. Takes longer due to ladders and tight spaces
  3. Harder to fully seal joints and edges

Brush vs. Sprayer: What Works Best?

While sprayers are faster, brushing delivers the best results on cedar.

Best practice:

  1. Spray to apply stain (optional)
  2. Brush immediately after to work stain into the wood fibers

This ensures even coverage and prevents lap marks.

Drying Time Matters

Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions, but general guidelines include:

  1. Let cedar dry 24–48 hours before staining
  2. Avoid staining in direct sunlight
  3. Do not stain if rain is expected within 24 hours

Proper drying ensures long-lasting results and even color.

Final Tips for Long-Lasting Results

  1. Test stain colors on a hidden piece first
  2. Stir stain thoroughly (do not shake)
  3. Apply thin, even coats
  4. Re-stain every few years as needed

With the right preparation and stain choice, your shed or playhouse will stay protected, beautiful, and ready to enjoy season after season.

Before adding extras, focus on the core components that make an outdoor kitchen functional and enjoyable.

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How to, sheds

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How to Build a Decorative Garden Shed

A decorative garden shed can be both functional and visually appealing, adding character to your outdoor space while providing practical storage or workspace. Whether you plan to customize it with plants, windows, or architectural details, building a shed starts with a solid foundation and a clear plan.

Below is a step-by-step guide to building a simple decorative garden shed.

Choose the Location for Your Decorative Garden Shed

Start by choosing a fairly level spot in a well-drained area of your yard. The ground does not need to be perfectly level—small differences can be adjusted using varying post heights or shims.

A decorative garden shed can be built directly on thin topsoil without digging a full foundation, as long as drainage is good and the structure is supported properly.

Placing the Precast Concrete Blocks

Once the area is cleared, place precast concrete deck blocks at the corners of the shed and along the sides for support.

  1. Place blocks at all four corners
  2. Use two to three blocks along the longer sides
  3. Place one block at the center of each shorter side

Insert a 12-inch piece of 4×4 lumber into the recess of each block so it protrudes slightly above the surface. These posts will support the frame.

Building the Frame

Use 2×6 lumber to form the outer edges of the floor frame, aligning them with the 4×4 posts in the concrete blocks. Trim excess post height so everything sits flush.

Install floor joists between the longer sides of the frame and secure them with deck screws. Once the frame is complete, attach pressure-treated plywood (approximately 5/8-inch thick) as the subfloor, securing it every 6–8 inches.

Building the Walls

Build wall frames using 2×4 lumber with studs spaced 24 inches apart. Secure the bottom plates to the floor frame using deck screws.

The shorter wall frames should sit inside the longer wall frames so the corners overlap securely. Once all wall frames are installed and fastened, cover the exterior with wall sheathing to complete the structure.

Windows and Doors

Before finishing the walls, mark where windows and doors will be installed. Doors can be mounted directly to wall studs, while windows usually require framed openings.

Once the siding is installed, cut window and door openings from the inside using the frames as guides. This approach helps ensure clean, accurate cuts.

Roofing

Cut roof rafters from 2×4 lumber and install them at a 30-degree angle at the peak of the roof. Steel connector plates can be used to strengthen the joints.

Add triangular gable wall pieces, then install blocking between rafters and wall tops to close gaps that could allow pests inside. Finish the roof with ½-inch roofing plywood, extending it slightly beyond the walls if you want an overhang.

Final Touches

Once the structure is complete, you can customize your shed with paint or stain, decorative trim, planters, trellises, or climbing plants. With thoughtful design choices, your garden shed can become a focal point in your outdoor space rather than just a storage solution.

Before adding extras, focus on the core components that make an outdoor kitchen functional and enjoyable.

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DIY, sheds

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She Sheds: A Backyard Retreat Designed Just for You

She Sheds: A Backyard Retreat Designed Just for You

Man caves have had their moment. Today, more women are carving out personal backyard spaces that reflect who they are, what they love, and how they recharge. Enter the she shed — a private retreat just steps from home, designed entirely on your terms.

A she shed isn’t about escaping responsibility. It’s about creating space. Space to breathe, think, create, relax, and enjoy a little uninterrupted time of your own. Whether tucked into a quiet corner of the yard or styled as a garden focal point, a she shed offers something many homes can’t: intentional solitude.

Why a She Shed Works

Between family, work, and everyday responsibilities, personal time can feel scarce. A she shed gives you a dedicated place to step away from daily noise and refocus — without ever leaving home.

Many women find that having a private outdoor retreat helps reduce stress, boost creativity, and restore a sense of balance. It becomes a space where only you decide what happens next. No interruptions. No expectations. Just time that’s yours.

And the best part? A she shed can be anything you want it to be.

L Shaped Cedar Shed Workbench 6

What You Can Do in Your She Shed

Your she shed should reflect your personality and passions. Some popular ways to use the space include:

  1. A creative studio for painting, writing, crafting, or photography
  2. A quiet reading nook filled with books, soft lighting, and comfortable seating
  3. A home office or focus zone for remote work or personal projects
  4. A cozy lounge or tea room to relax, reflect, or catch up with friends
  5. A meditation or wellness space for journaling, yoga, or mindfulness

There are no rules. Whether you use it daily or whenever you need a reset, your she shed exists to support you.

Use Your Imagination

This is where a she shed truly shines. Unlike rooms inside the house, this space doesn’t have to meet anyone else’s expectations.

Paint it bright white for a classic look or lean into soft pastels, rich textures, or vintage charm. Reuse furniture, display meaningful keepsakes, or add decorative lighting for a warm, welcoming glow. Flower boxes, climbing plants, and garden paths can help blend your shed naturally into its surroundings.

Even older sheds can be transformed with simple updates like fresh paint, larger windows, or improved lighting. A little creativity goes a long way in turning something functional into something special.

Getting Started

If you already have a backyard shed, you’re halfway there. Start by deciding how you want to use the space, then refresh it with paint, décor, and lighting that make it feel inviting.

If you’re starting from scratch, there are plenty of DIY and prefabricated shed options available. From rustic charm to modern design, the structure itself can be as unique as the retreat it becomes.

A Space for Happy Moments

While a she shed is often a place for solitude, it can also be a beautiful setting for connection. Host a small gathering, celebrate a milestone, or simply enjoy a quiet evening watching the rain fall outside your window.

More than anything, a she shed is about intention. It’s a space that reminds you to slow down, tune in, and enjoy moments that are just for you.

Your backyard retreat is closer than you think — and it’s ready to become your happy place.

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gazebos, playhouse kits, sheds

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Converting Existing Garden Structures Into a Playhouse

Give your kids a space to imagine, explore, and play independently—right in your backyard.

As children grow older, they naturally crave a little independence. Having a space of their own allows them to explore their creativity, build confidence, and play freely—while still staying safe and close to home.

One of the best ways to support this growth is by creating a dedicated playhouse in the garden. A backyard playhouse gives children the freedom to play independently while offering protection from the elements and peace of mind for parents.

Cozy Cabin Playhouse 9x7 Cedar Playhouse Kit Outdoor Living Today Western Red Cedar Kit 1

Repurposing Existing Garden Structures

While a traditional playhouse is a wonderful idea, space and budget constraints can make starting from scratch feel overwhelming. The good news is that you don’t have to.

Many existing garden structures can be easily repurposed into charming play spaces. With a little imagination, you can transform a garden shed, gazebo, or arbor into a creative retreat your children will love.

Explore inspiration for seasonal and themed play spaces here:
Turn Your Kids’ Outdoor Playhouse Into a Fort

Check the Sturdiness of the Structure

Before starting any conversion, safety comes first. Inspect the structure thoroughly to ensure the foundation, walls, and roof are solid and capable of handling active play.

If you notice any weaknesses, reinforce them before moving forward. A sturdy structure ensures the playhouse will remain safe, durable, and enjoyable for years to come.

Ensure Adequate Ventilation

Children are likely to spend hours playing in their new space, so proper airflow is essential. Make sure the structure has adequate ventilation to keep it comfortable during warmer months.

Weatherproofing is also important. Protect toys, books, and treasured belongings from moisture and prolonged sun exposure to keep everything in good condition.

Provide Furniture That Works Hard

Furnish the playhouse with age-appropriate pieces that are functional and easy to clean. Low benches, small tables, and child-sized chairs work well.

Whenever possible, choose furniture that doubles as storage. Toy chests, benches with compartments, or cubbies help keep the space organized while maximizing every square inch. Individual storage areas for each child can also help encourage responsibility.

Add Soft Furnishings

Once the main furniture is in place, add soft touches to make the space feel cozy and welcoming. Curtains, rugs, and colorful cushions add comfort and personality while making the playhouse feel like a true retreat.

Decorate the Exterior

Since the playhouse sits within the garden, let it blend naturally into the landscape. Surround it with flowering plants, install a short wooden picket fence, or add a nearby swing or hammock for extra fun.

Fast-growing vines can soften the look and add charm—get ideas here:

Converting an Arbor Into a Playhouse

Arbors make magical play spaces when dressed with greenery. Encourage vines to grow along the walls and roof, or create a living green wall using trellises or hedges on three sides, leaving one side open for entry.

Inside, simple benches or toy chests can provide seating and storage. Adding window openings lets in natural light and enhances the sense of adventure. A canvas floor covering can make cleanup quick and easy.

Converting a Gazebo Into a Playhouse

A gazebo can easily become a play pavilion by adding cheerful curtains or roll-down blinds along the sides. This creates a cozy, shaded space perfect for summer play.

Because gazebos often have built-in seating, consider adding lockers or storage bins for each child. Make sure all storage is secure to keep bugs out and toys protected.

You can find more ideas for personalizing structures like gazebos and pergolas here.

A Space That Grows With Them

A backyard playhouse encourages independence, creativity, and imaginative play. With just a few thoughtful updates—furniture that multitasks, soft furnishings, and safe structural checks—almost any garden structure can become a child’s favorite place.

Keep furnishings simple to let imagination take the lead. One day it might be a castle, the next a ship, a theater, or something entirely unexpected. That freedom is what makes a playhouse truly special.

Need inspiration? Explore the many creative playhouse ideas shared by our community and start designing a space your children will remember for years to come.

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sheds

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Creative Ways to Use a Garden Shed

If you’re tired of seeing your garden shed used only as a dumping ground for items that never quite found a home in your garage, it may be time for a fresh perspective. No matter the size of your shed, it doesn’t have to exist solely for storing tools, bins, or seasonal décor.

With just a little time, effort, and creativity—and without spending a lot of money—you can transform your garden shed into a functional, inspiring space that adds real value to your backyard and your lifestyle.

But First… Start With a Clean Slate

Before transforming your shed into something new, the most important step is to organize and declutter. Clear out everything that has been sitting unused for years and be honest with yourself about what you actually need. If you haven’t used something in the past six months, it may be time to let it go.

Once your shed is empty and organized, you’ll have a blank canvas to work with. For practical tips on clearing and refreshing your space, take a look at our guide on how to organize your shed:
👉 Organize Your Shed

You can also explore more inspiration for rethinking traditional shed use here:
👉 Backyard Inspirations – Garden Shed

8×8 Western Red Cedar – Gardener Shed Outdoor Living Today Cedar Shed Kit 19

A Playhouse for Kids

One of the most popular and rewarding ways to repurpose a garden shed is by turning it into a playhouse for kids. With a few simple updates, a standard shed can become a magical outdoor retreat where imagination runs wild.

Bright paint colors, kid-sized furniture, chalkboards, books, toys, and storage bins instantly transform the space into a fun and welcoming environment. A playhouse gives children a sense of independence while encouraging creative, outdoor play.

For even more playful ideas, check out this guide on turning kids’ outdoor spaces into forts and hideaways:
👉 Turn a Kids’ Outdoor Playhouse Into a Fort

An Indoor Greenhouse or Garden Room

If you love plants and gardening, your shed can easily become an indoor greenhouse or garden room. Add shelving, worktables, and plenty of natural light to create a dedicated space for starting seedlings, overwintering plants, or potting throughout the year.

This type of conversion works especially well for gardeners who want to extend their growing season or keep gardening tasks separate from the main house. With proper ventilation and organization, your shed can become a calm, productive retreat for plant care.

A Creative Studio or Hobby Space

A garden shed also makes an ideal creative studio. Whether you enjoy painting, crafting, woodworking, writing, or DIY projects, having a dedicated space allows you to focus without distractions.

Outfit the shed with proper lighting, storage for supplies, and a comfortable workspace. The separation from the house makes it easier to step into “creative mode” and truly enjoy your hobby.

A Backyard Retreat or Personal Hideaway

Sometimes, the best use for a garden shed is simply as a place to relax. With cozy seating, soft lighting, rugs, and personal décor, your shed can become a quiet escape from daily routines.

Use it as a reading nook, meditation space, or a spot to enjoy a cup of tea while looking out over the garden. Even a small shed can feel luxurious when it’s thoughtfully designed for comfort and calm.

Start With the Right Foundation

If you’re starting from scratch or upgrading an old structure, having the right shed makes all the difference. A well-built, durable shed provides endless flexibility for future use—whether that’s storage, play, creativity, or relaxation.

One Space, Endless Possibilities

Your garden shed doesn’t have to stay stuck in its original role. With imagination and a bit of effort, it can become one of the most versatile and loved spaces in your backyard.

From playhouses and greenhouses to studios and retreats, the possibilities are only limited by how you choose to use the space.

Need inspiration? Take a look at the many creative shed ideas shared by our community, or reach out to us directly.
Create your own backyard adventure space with Outdoor Living Today.

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How to, sheds

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How to Winterize Your Shed and Protect It Through the Cold Months

A garden shed is one of the hardest-working structures in your backyard. It quietly weathers spring rain, summer heat, and fall cleanup—but winter is a different story. Snow, ice, freezing temperatures, and moisture can all take a toll if your shed isn’t properly prepared.

Because most people use their shed less during winter, seasonal damage often goes unnoticed until spring. Taking the time to winterize your shed in the fall helps ensure it stays sturdy, functional, and in great condition through the colder months—ready to welcome you back when warmer weather returns.

So how do you winterize your shed? A few proactive steps now can save you time, money, and repairs later.

Thorough Cleaning Comes First

Before winter sets in, give your shed a full cleanout. Over the growing season, sheds tend to become catch-all storage spaces for pots, tools, fertilizer, hoses, and equipment.

Start by removing everything from the shed so you can properly assess what you still need and what should be discarded. Broken pots, damaged tools, excess materials, and anything you no longer use should be disposed of. If you haven’t used an item in the last six months, it’s probably safe to let it go.

Once the shed is empty:

  1. Sweep the floor and remove dust, debris, and cobwebs
  2. Eliminate insects or pests that may have taken up residence
  3. Clean gardening tools thoroughly and store them in sealed plastic bags
  4. Drain garden hoses completely and coil them to prevent cracking
  5. Remove oil and gas from lawn equipment and cover machines with a tarp
  6. Store soil, fertilizer, mulch, and grass seed in sealed plastic containers to deter rodents
  7. Secure electrical cords so they don’t become tangled or damaged

A clean shed is not only easier to inspect—it also reduces the risk of pests and makes spring prep much easier.

Cabana 9x6 Cedar Garden shed Western Red Cedar cedar shed Outdoor Living Today 17
Cabana 9x6 Cedar Garden shed Western Red Cedar cedar shed Outdoor Living Today 18

Inspect and Repair the Interior

Once cleaning is complete, it’s time to inspect the inside of your shed for damage.

Check the floors, walls, and ceiling carefully. Look for small holes, cracks, or crevices and seal them with caulking to prevent cold air, moisture, and pests from entering during winter.

Pay close attention to:

  1. Areas behind shelves and wall-mounted hooks
  2. Window and door seals for cracks or worn weatherstripping
  3. Hinges and hardware that may need lubrication

If you have the time and budget, applying a fresh coat of paint to interior walls can refresh the space and help protect the wood. Waterproofing the floor is also a smart option if you store winter tools that may be damp from snow or ice.

Give the Roof Special Attention

Your shed roof takes the brunt of winter weather, so it deserves extra care.

Inspect the roof for signs of wear or damage:

  1. Metal roofs should be cleaned and treated to prevent rust
  2. Shingled roofs should have loose or broken shingles replaced
  3. Wooden roofs should be checked for warping, cracks, or insect damage

Replace any damaged panels and treat exposed wood to help prevent insects from boring into it. Cedar panels, commonly used in quality shed kits, are naturally resistant to pests and moisture, making them an excellent choice for long-term durability.

Also take time to:

  1. Replace rusted nails
  2. Reinforce loose panels
  3. Trim overhanging tree branches that could break under snow or ice and damage the roof
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Cabana 9x6 Cedar Garden shed Western Red Cedar cedar shed Outdoor Living Today Banner 2

Fix and Protect the Exterior

A final walk-around of the shed exterior helps catch issues before winter worsens them.

Inspect siding and trim for holes or cracks and fill them as needed. If you choose to repaint, use waterproof exterior paint and allow proper drying time between coats.

Clear away leaves, vines, and vegetation growing too close to the shed. Trapped moisture from plants can lead to rot and deterioration over time, especially during freeze-thaw cycles.

Ready for Winter, Ready for Spring

Winterizing your shed may sound like a big task, but breaking it into manageable steps makes it much more approachable. A little effort each day can have your shed fully prepared before winter arrives.

By cleaning thoroughly, making small repairs, and protecting both the interior and exterior, you’ll significantly extend the life of your shed and avoid major repairs down the road. When spring returns, your shed will be ready to use—no surprises required.

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Backyard Inspirations, sheds

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Why Gardening Is Good for the Soul: The Benefits of Creating a Backyard Oasis

Reconnect with Nature, Disconnect from Screens

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We spend hours tethered to phones, laptops, and streaming services. The average North American adult spends more than seven hours a day looking at screens. Gardening offers a much-needed reprieve. It invites you to slow down, take a deep breath, and immerse yourself in the present moment.

Time in the garden can become a form of moving meditation. The simple acts of planting, weeding, watering, or harvesting encourage mindfulness, which research has shown helps reduce anxiety, improve focus, and elevate mood. Gardening literally reconnects you with the earth—what’s often called “earthing” or “grounding”—which is increasingly linked to lower stress levels and improved mental clarity.

Health Benefits Backed by Science

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Science supports what gardeners have long known in their hearts: getting your hands dirty is good for you. Studies show that:

  • Gardening can lower cortisol levels, the hormone responsible for stress.

  • Digging in the soil exposes you to Mycobacterium vaccae, a beneficial bacteria that can improve serotonin production and boost your mood.

  • Gardening burns calories—about 200 to 400 calories per hour depending on the activity.

  • It promotes better sleep, especially for those who garden in the early morning or early evening light.

It’s also a low-impact physical activity, making it ideal for older adults or those recovering from injuries. Gardening improves flexibility, strength, and motor skills, all while providing an uplifting sense of accomplishment.

Builds a Sense of Purpose and Belonging

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Your garden isn’t just a place—it’s a personal ecosystem you’re responsible for nurturing. Watching something grow as a direct result of your care builds confidence and purpose. For seniors or people struggling with isolation, gardening can become a powerful emotional anchor.

Even children benefit from getting involved. Kids who participate in gardening tend to eat more fruits and vegetables and are more connected to where their food comes from. Gardening fosters patience, curiosity, and responsibility.

Your Garden, Your Therapy

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A backyard garden can be your sanctuary. Want a quiet place to meditate? Design a peaceful healing garden with soft grasses, lavender, and a comfortable bench. Need to blow off steam? Grab a shovel and get to work on a new bed. It’s surprisingly cathartic.

Many people now incorporate therapeutic elements into their outdoor spaces:

  • Raised garden beds for easy access

  • Greenhouses for year-round plant nurturing

  • Water features for calming ambient sound

  • Herb gardens for fragrance, flavor, and functional health benefits

Outdoor Living Today offers a wide selection of cedar garden structures—from urban raised garden beds to compact cedar greenhouses—designed to turn your backyard into a lush, restorative escape.

Start Small, Grow Something Meaningful

You don’t need acres of land or a huge budget to begin. Start with a couple of containers or a small raised bed. Even a few pots on a patio can bring surprising joy. The point isn’t perfection—it’s presence.

When you create a space to grow something, you grow, too.

Whether you’re nurturing tomatoes, tulips, or tranquility, gardening is a timeless ritual that feeds the body, soothes the mind, and uplifts the soul. And in a time when the world often feels chaotic, what could be more essential than that?

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