Is It Worth Building Your Own Shed?

Last Updated on March 5, 2024 by Kimberly Crawford

Everyone with the space needs a shed. It’s the instant solution for stowing away all the gear, tools, and garden paraphernalia that somehow multiplies fast. However, The real head-scratcher lies in the age-old debate: to buy or build?

Now, buying a shed has its perks, no doubt. Sheds can range from $15 to $150 per square foot for materials and installation. The appeal lies in the sheer convenience – the hard work is essentially gift-wrapped for you.

Choose your preferred shed model, and voila, the heavy lifting is someone else’s problem. It’s the ultimate solution for those not born with a toolbox in hand or who’ve had their fair share of wrestling matches with DIY projects. 

With all of that convincingly being said, have you considered the liberating thrill of building your own shed? There are some benefits and compelling reasons why this should be on the cards.

Considering rent-to-own options

Before we dive into the pros and cons of building your own shed, there’s another avenue in the shed world to consider – rent-to-own sheds. While most of us are familiar with the drill of applying for credit, rent-to-own takes a detour into a lease agreement that offers its own set of perks.

Traditional financing, as you might have experienced, involves the nerve-wracking credit application process. Your financial history undergoes scrutiny, and the outcome can swing between approval and denial, with implications as weighty as the financial load you’re about to take on. Missed payments or lapses in fulfilling loan obligations can throw your credit score into a downward spiral.

With rent-to-own sheds, you say goodbye to the anxiety-inducing credit review; regardless of your credit score, a storage solution is within reach. For homeowners watching their budget, rent-to-own sheds are an opportunity to acquire much-needed storage without breaking the bank or having to worry about a DIY build. 

The advantages of building your own shed

If the mere thought of crafting something with your own two hands makes your heart skip a beat, then building a shed might just be the exhilarating adventure you’re seeking.

There’s an undeniable charm in creating a space that perfectly fits your needs, and with so many shed options available, having full control over your project is a compelling reason to take the plunge.

Whether you prefer following step-by-step instructions, found online or revel in the convenience of a kit that includes all the necessary parts and guidelines, the satisfaction of building your own shed is unmatched. But beyond the thrill of construction, the financial aspect adds another layer of appeal. Is it cheaper to build your own shed? The answer is a resounding yes. Building your own shed is often a more economical choice compared to purchasing a pre-built one. Of course, there’s a caveat: having the right tools at your disposal.

Constructing a shed typically requires only a handful of basic tools. If you opt for a shed kit, where everything arrives neatly cut and ready for assembly, you can get by with essentials like a hammer, drill, and screwdriver.

Image credit: James Kovin

If you decide to brave the world of online instructions, the tool requirements remain reasonable. Sure, a circular saw and a few additional electric tools might come into play, but it’s nothing that would send your tool budget into a tailspin.

The money you save on labor, you trade for your time, but you get outside, stay fit, and obtain the pride in knowing you’ve created something with your own two hands.

Being aware of the hidden costs

While the prospect of building your own shed might seem like a budget-friendly venture, there can be some lurking variables that could turn your DIY dream into a costlier reality. 

In theory, constructing your own shed is touted as the thriftiest route when compared to purchasing a pre-made counterpart. However, if your tool arsenal is limited to basic essentials like hammers and screwdrivers, diving into the world of shed construction might require a substantial investment in power tools.

Circular saws, table saws, and other heavy-duty equipment can quickly tally up costs, adding several hundred dollars to your expenditure. It might be a justified splurge, but for those aiming for the most cost-effective option, the need to acquire specialized tools can unexpectedly stretch your budget.

Another potential pitfall arises when opting for online instructions instead of a ready-made kit. The mantra of “measure twice, cut once” can only go so far, and the risk of an erroneous cut or mistake remains a looming possibility.

A misplaced cut means a trip back to the hardware store, additional purchases, and a return journey home—each step incurring extra costs. Even the most skilled builders can’t completely eliminate the chance of errors, and the financial toll of rectifying mistakes should be factored into your budgeting equation.

Considering the time investment in shed construction

There’s one final crucial consideration factor often overlooked in the shed-building equation: time. While having the right tools and a DIY spirit are key components, the real question becomes whether you can afford the luxury of time to dedicate to this project. Building a shed is not just a matter of assembling materials; it’s a time-consuming endeavor that demands a significant chunk of your schedule.

Consider your lifestyle and commitments. If your weekends are sacred for relaxation, family time, or cheering on your team, the reality is that constructing a shed might not fit seamlessly into your schedule. 

Opting to buy a pre-made shed can be a strategic move, especially if your time is a rare and valuable commodity. It frees up your schedule and alleviates the stress of fitting another task into an already-packed routine. 

Creating something special at home

FarmFoodFamily is an online hub with an extensive range of topics, from home decor and gardening to DIY projects like building your own shed. Our content makes home improvement a little easier, as you have some expert tips to help. Bookmark our site and check back in regularly to decide what your next project will be.