Storage units for outdoors are versatile, weather-resistant containers designed to protect your gardening tools, equipment, and outdoor furniture from the elements. They come in various materials and sizes, offering a convenient, organized, and secure way to keep your yard essentials tidy and readily accessible.
Gardening is such a rewarding journey, isn’t it? You nurture tiny seeds, watch them sprout, and then… you’re left with a collection of tools, pots, and gear. Where do you keep it all when the gardening season winds down, or even just between uses? It can feel like a clutter puzzle, especially when you want to keep your precious gardening friends (your tools!) safe and sound from rain, sun, and curious critters. Don’t let outdoor storage stress you out! We’re going to walk through everything you need to know about choosing and using storage units for your outdoor space.
Why You Need Outdoor Storage Solutions
Think of your outdoor storage unit as your garden’s best friend. It’s not just about tidiness; it’s about protecting your investments and simplifying your gardening life.
Protection from the Elements: Rain, snow, harsh sun, and winds can do a number on your gardening supplies. Metal tools can rust, wooden handles can warp, and plastic items can become brittle. A good outdoor storage unit acts like a shield, keeping everything dry and safe.
Organization is Key: Ever spent precious gardening time hunting for that lost trowel or the right bag of fertilizer? An outdoor storage unit provides a dedicated space for everything, so you know exactly where to find what you need, when you need it.
Security: Inexpensive tools or valuable equipment can be tempting targets. Secure storage units offer peace of mind by keeping your items out of sight and locked away.
Maximizing Space: Especially in smaller gardens or yards, efficient storage is crucial. Units can help you reclaim usable space that might otherwise be taken up by scattered items. They can even double as a potting bench or extra seating!
Extending the Lifespan of Your Gear: By protecting items from decay, rust, and UV damage, your storage unit helps your tools and equipment last much longer, saving you money in the long run.
Types of Storage Units for Outdoors
When we talk about “storage units for outdoors,” we’re not just talking about one kind of box. The world of outdoor storage is diverse, with options to suit every need, budget, and garden style. Let’s break down the most popular choices.
1. Plastic Storage Sheds (Resin Sheds)
These are incredibly popular for a reason! Made from durable, UV-resistant plastic (like polyethylene or PVC), they are lightweight, easy to assemble, and require very little maintenance.
Pros:
Weatherproof: Excellent at keeping water out.
Low Maintenance: No painting or staining required. Just a occasional wash.
Lightweight: Easier to move and assemble than metal or wood.
Variety of Sizes: Available in many dimensions to fit your space.
Rodent Resistant: Generally more resistant to pests than wood.
Cons:
Can Fade: Over many years, intense sun can cause some fading.
Less Aesthetically Pleasing (Subjective): Some people find them less attractive than wood or metal alternatives.
May Require Anchoring: Strong winds can pose a risk if not properly secured to the ground.
2. Metal Storage Sheds (Steel or Aluminum)
These sheds offer excellent durability and security. Steel sheds, in particular, are very strong and can withstand heavy weather. Aluminum is lighter and rust-resistant.
Pros:
Very Durable: Strong and long-lasting.
Secure: Offers good protection against theft.
Fire Resistant: More so than plastic or wood.
Pest Resistant: No nesting spots for critters.
Cons:
Can Dent: Steel can be dented by impact.
Rust Potential: Steel can rust if the protective coating is damaged, though many are galvanized.
Heat Retention: Can get very hot inside on sunny days, potentially damaging sensitive items. Ventilation is crucial.
Assembly can be complex: Often requires more than one person and good set of tools.
3. Wooden Storage Sheds
A classic choice, wooden sheds can add a beautiful, natural aesthetic to your garden. They can be purchased as kits or built from scratch.
Pros:
Aesthetically Pleasing: Blends well with most garden landscapes.
Customizable: Can be painted or stained to match your home or surroundings.
Sturdy: Can be built to be very robust.
Good Insulation: Generally offers better insulation against temperature fluctuations than metal.
Cons:
Requires Maintenance: Needs regular sealing, painting, or staining to prevent rot, warping, and insect damage.
Can Attract Pests: Wood can be a target for termites and other wood-boring insects.
Heavier and More Expensive: Often more costly and harder to assemble than plastic or metal sheds.
Can Absorb Moisture: If not properly sealed, wood can absorb water, leading to rot.
4. Storage Benches and Deck Boxes
These are excellent for smaller spaces or for storing items you need quick access to, like patio cushions, gardening gloves, or watering cans. They often serve adual purpose as seating or a small table.
Pros:
Space-Saving: Combines storage with furniture.
Convenient Access: Great for frequently used items.
Variety of Materials: Available in wood, plastic, and metal.
Aesthetic Appeal: Can enhance your outdoor decor.
Cons:
Limited Capacity: Not suitable for large tools or equipment.
Water Resistance Varies: Some may not be fully waterproof, so check product details.
May Require Liner: For items needing extra protection from moisture.
5. Tool Chests and Cabinets for Outdoors
Similar to indoor versions, these are designed for smaller tools, fertilizers, and supplies. They are often metal or heavy-duty plastic, with drawers and shelves for organization.
Pros:
Excellent Organization: Drawers and shelves keep items sorted.
Secure: Can usually be locked.
Compact: Good for smaller item storage.
Cons:
Limited Space: Not for mowers or large equipment.
Weatherproofing: Ensure they are rated for outdoor use, as some may rust or degrade.
Choosing the Right Storage Unit for Your Needs
With so many options, how do you pick the perfect one? Consider these factors:
1. What Will You Store?
This is the most important question!
Large Items: If you have a lawnmower, wheelbarrow, or large garden furniture, you’ll need a spacious shed (plastic, metal, or wood).
Small Tools and Supplies: For trowels, gloves, bags of soil, and fertilizers, a smaller shed, a deck box, or outdoor cabinets might suffice.
Patio Cushions: Deck boxes are ideal for keeping cushions dry and out of the way.
Kindling/Firewood: A simple, open-fronted log store might be best here.
2. How Much Space Do You Have?
Measure your available space carefully. Consider not just the footprint of the unit but also the area for access (opening doors, walking around).
Small Yards/Balconies: Storage benches, wall-mounted cabinets, or very compact plastic sheds are good options.
Medium Yards: A standard-sized shed (e.g., 6×8 feet or 8×10 feet) is usually sufficient.
Large Yards: You might opt for a larger shed or even multiple units.
3. What’s Your Budget?
Outdoor storage units range from under $100 for a small deck box to several thousand dollars for a large, high-quality wooden shed.
Budget-Friendly: Plastic sheds and basic deck boxes are often the most affordable.
Mid-Range: Metal sheds and good quality plastic sheds fall into this category.
Premium: Custom-built or high-end wooden sheds are an investment.
4. What’s Your Climate Like?
Wet Climates: Prioritize units with excellent water resistance and ventilation to prevent mold and mildew. Plastic and well-sealed wood are good choices.
Hot Climates: Metal sheds can become very hot. Consider plastic or wood, and ensure good ventilation. Light-colored units reflect more sun.
Windy Climates: Sturdy construction and proper anchoring are essential for any unit. Metal or well-built wooden sheds are often more wind-resistant.
5. How Much Maintenance Are You Willing to Do?
Low Maintenance: Plastic sheds are the easiest.
Moderate Maintenance: Metal sheds might need occasional rust checks.
High Maintenance: Wooden sheds require regular upkeep.
Key Features to Look For in Outdoor Storage Units
Beyond type and size, here are some specific features that make a big difference:
1. Durability and Material Quality
UV Resistance: Look for plastics and finishes that won’t degrade or fade quickly under sunlight.
Waterproofing: Check for seals, gaskets, and sloped roofs that direct water away.
Corner Bracing and Reinforcement: These structural elements indicate a stronger unit.
Galvanized or Powder-Coated Metal: For rust prevention.
2. Ventilation
Proper airflow is critical to prevent dampness, mold, and mildew. Look for built-in vents, especially in plastic and metal sheds.
3. Ease of Assembly
Some units are snap-together, while others require nuts and bolts. Read reviews to gauge the difficulty. Many manufacturers provide estimated assembly times. For larger sheds, consider if professional assembly is an option or if you’ll need a friend to help.
4. Security Features
Lockable Doors: Most sheds have this, but check the type of lock mechanism and if padlocks are supported.
Sturdy Hinges: Prevent easy prying.
5. Flooring
Does the unit come with a solid floor, or do you need to build a base (e.g., gravel, concrete, wooden platform)? Some plastic sheds sit directly on the ground, which can be less ideal for moisture control.
6. Aesthetics
While practicality is key, you also want something that looks good in your yard! Consider color, design, and how it complements your home and landscaping.
Let’s look at how different materials stack up for common outdoor storage scenarios.
| Feature | Plastic (Resin) | Metal (Steel/Aluminum) | Wood | Deck Boxes/Benches |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Durability | Good to Excellent | Excellent | Good to Excellent (with maintenance) | Varies greatly by material |
| Weather Resistance | Excellent | Good to Excellent (rust on steel if damaged) | Fair to Good (requires sealing) | Fair to Good (check waterproofing) |
| Maintenance | Very Low | Low (check for rust) | High (painting, sealing) | Low to Moderate |
| Cost | Low to Mid | Mid to High | Mid to High | Low to Mid |
| Assembly Ease | Easy to Moderate | Moderate to Difficult | Moderate to Difficult | Easy |
| Pest Resistance | High | High | Low (can attract termites) | Moderate to High |
| Aesthetics | Fair to Good | Fair | Excellent | Good |
| Ideal For | General storage, garden tools, cushions | Larger tools, mowers, secure storage | Aesthetics, larger items, customization | Cushions, small tools, seating/tables |
Step-by-Step Guide to Setting Up Your Outdoor Storage Unit
Once you’ve chosen your perfect storage unit, setting it up correctly ensures it lasts and functions well for years to come.
Step 1: Choose the Perfect Location
Accessibility: Place it somewhere convenient for accessing your most-used tools.
Drainage: Avoid areas that tend to pool water. A slightly elevated spot is ideal.
Sun Exposure: If you live in a hot climate, consider placing it where it gets some shade to prevent overheating. In colder climates, direct sun might help dry it out faster.
Level Ground: The unit needs to sit on a flat, stable surface to prevent warping or door issues.
Regulations: Check local building codes or HOA rules for any restrictions on shed placement or size.
Step 2: Prepare the Foundation
A stable base is crucial for the longevity and stability of your storage unit.
For Smaller Units (Deck Boxes, Cabinets): A level patio, deck, or compacted gravel base is usually sufficient.
For Larger Sheds (Plastic, Metal, Wood):
Leveling: Use landscaping Rake to perfectly level the ground.
Gravel Base: Spread a layer of crushed gravel (about 4-6 inches deep) and compact it firmly. This provides excellent drainage and stability. Source gravel from reputable landscaping supply companies.
Concrete Pad: For maximum stability and longevity, a poured concrete slab is the best option.
Wooden Skids/Deck Blocks: Some units can be placed on treated lumber skids or specialized deck blocks that lift them slightly off the ground.
Step 3: Assemble the Unit
Follow the manufacturer’s instructions precisely.
Read Thoroughly: Before you start, read all instructions and identify all parts.
Gather Tools: Have the necessary tools (screwdrivers, wrenches, level, hammer, safety gear) ready. Consider investing in a good set of basic hand tools, like those from Lowe’s tool guide, which can make assembly much easier.
Work with a Partner: For larger sheds, having a second person is highly recommended for holding pieces and ensuring alignment.
Don’t Overtighten: Be careful not to strip screws or crack plastic by overtightening.
Check for Squareness: Use a measuring tape to ensure corners are square as you assemble.
Step 4: Anchor the Unit
This is a critical step for safety and to prevent wind damage.
Follow Manufacturer’s Recommendations: Most sheds come with anchoring kits or provisions.
Secure to Foundation: Anchor the unit to your concrete pad, skids, or even stakes driven deeply into the ground if direct ground placement is unavoidable.
Consider Wind Load: In very windy areas, you might need to reinforce the anchoring.
Step 5: Organize Your Items
Now for the fun part!
Shelving: Install shelves to maximize vertical space. You can buy pre-made shelves or build your own.
Hooks and Racks: Use hooks for hanging long-handled tools, shovels, and rakes. Pegboards are great for smaller hand tools.
Bins and Containers: Use plastic bins to group similar items like seed packets, gloves, or small tools.
Labeling: Labeling your bins and shelves makes finding things even easier.
Weight Distribution: Place heavier items on the floor or bottom shelves.
Maintaining Your Outdoor Storage Unit
Proper maintenance ensures your storage unit continues to protect your belongings for years.
For Plastic Sheds:
Cleaning: Wash with mild soap and water annually or as needed. A soft brush can help remove stubborn dirt.
Inspect Seals: Check door and roof seals periodically for cracks or damage.
Check Anchors: Ensure anchors remain secure, especially after strong winds.
For Metal Sheds:
Rust Patrol: Annually inspect for any signs of rust, especially around edges and screw holes. Touch up with rust-inhibiting paint if necessary.
Lubricate Hinges: Keep doors and hinges working smoothly.
Clean: Wash with mild soap and water. Avoid abrasive cleaners that can scratch the finish.
For Wooden Sheds:
Annual Inspection: Check for signs of rot, insect damage, or warping every spring.
Reseal/Repaint: Reapply sealant, stain, or paint every 1-3 years, depending on your climate and the product used. This is crucial for water and UV protection.
Clear Debris: Regularly clear leaves and debris from the roof and around the base to prevent moisture buildup.
Check for Pests: Look for evidence of termites or carpenter ants and address them immediately.
For Deck Boxes and Benches:
Check Lids and Hinges: Ensure they are functioning correctly and safely.
* Clean: Wipe down with a damp cloth
