You know those tools you seldom use but you can’t bare to get rid of? Wooden sheds are a great place for storing them, but they can be used for SO MUCH MORE than just storage. They can also be made (or adapted) for several different purposes.

Using a shed for the garden is perhaps the most popular reason to have a shed. Its quite a convenient place for storing your garden tools and supplies so the natural location for a shed is right next to the garden. Plus, potting your plants is a snap with a proper workbench in your shed. Many of the garden sheds built today connect us to a simpler past just with their charm and character.

You can use sheds for other reasons also. For instance, a shed next to a pool actually serves the purpose of a pool cabana. Pool chemicals that really should be stored away from the house are better placed in the cabana. You can also use the cabana for housing a refrigerator for cold snacks, towels, pool toys, and other supplies. Storing towels and dry clothes also helps keep the kids from running into the house all wet.

Because of their small size, wooden sheds are perfect for artists’ studios and also as kids playhouses. Most shed sizes will accommodate a few pieces of furniture that makes them ideal areas for your own little sanctuary.

You have a few options when it comes to the types of building materials you want your shed to be made of. Personally, I like the look of wood (particularly cedar). This is especially important if your shed will be located in a highly visible area.

Other options include plastic (or vinyl) and metal (usually rolled aluminum). Plastic is virtually maintenance free and is going to be your least expensive option. While metal is durable, it can get really hot inside – especially in warmer climate zones.

Once you have made the decision to add a wooden shed to you backyard, you will need to decide if you want to build it yourself or if you will be hiring a professional to build it. Shed kits are a great way to go if you are fairly handy with basic carpentry tools. And, there is a wide variety of wooden shed kits to choose from. They are a lot easier and faster to build than making a shed from scratch.

Everything will start to fall into place if you can step back from your project before you begin and make an honest evaluation of what its purpose will be.

Terry Shaw is passionate about wooden garden sheds. For a lot more information, construction tips, and resources, visit his site: BestWoodenSheds.com.