Garden Sheds & Storage Sizes Explained

In depth

Garden shed sizes in the UK are often presented in confusing ways, leading to frustrating misinterpretations at the point of purchase. The key is understanding what the different measurements actually represent – it’s rarely just about the overall length. Manufacturers and retailers frequently use a system that blends internal dimensions with external dimensions, and crucially, they don't always clearly define which measurement is most relevant for determining whether something will *actually* fit within your space. This section breaks down the common sizing conventions and provides guidance on how to accurately assess your garden before committing to a purchase.

The most frequently encountered size descriptions revolve around ‘internal dimensions’. These refer to the width, depth, and height of the space you’ll have inside the shed – the area where you can physically work or store items. However, the external dimensions – the overall footprint of the shed itself – are equally important, particularly if you’re considering placement against a wall, fence, or within a specific area of your garden. A shed might be described as ‘6ft wide internally’, but that only tells you how much space is available *within* the structure. To determine whether it will comfortably fit in your garden, you need to add at least 60cm (approximately 24 inches) to this figure to account for the depth of the walls and the overhang of the roof – a conservative estimate, but vital if you're planning on moving around inside the shed easily. Failing to do so is a common mistake, leading to disappointment when the shed appears significantly larger than anticipated.

Shed sizes are generally described using feet and inches (6ft 8in). One foot equals 12 inches, so a 6ft 8in shed has an internal width of 6 x 12 = 72 inches, plus an additional 8 inches for the overhang, resulting in an overall external dimension of 80 inches (approximately 6’ 7”). It's crucial to note that some manufacturers may use metric measurements alongside imperial units – for instance, you might see a width stated as 1.8m internally and 2.1m externally. Always double-check the conversion to ensure you are comparing like with like. Furthermore, consider the height of the shed; this measurement is typically given in feet and inches and refers to the distance from the floor to the apex of the roof.

Considering your household’s needs will heavily influence the appropriate shed size. A single person or a couple needing minimal storage – perhaps just garden tools and some potting soil – could comfortably manage a 6ft x 8ft (approximately 1.8m x 2.4m) shed with an internal height of 6ft 3in (approximately 1.91m). This size provides enough space for basic tasks without feeling cramped. However, families with children or those who require more storage – perhaps bikes, outdoor furniture, or sports equipment – will need a considerably larger shed. An 8ft x 10ft (approximately 2.4m x 3m) shed with an internal height of 7ft 6in (approximately 2.29m) would be a more suitable option, offering significantly increased usable space.

When measuring your garden to determine the appropriate shed size, start with accurate measurements of the area where you intend to place the shed. Don’t just eyeball it; use a tape measure and record the dimensions carefully. Take into account any existing structures – fences, walls, trees – that might affect the available space. Also, consider access routes; ensure there's enough room for delivery vehicles and easy movement around the shed once it's installed. Remember to factor in a buffer zone of at least 60cm (24 inches) on all sides to allow for the overhang and any potential adjustments. A common oversight is failing to account for ground levels – uneven ground may require some leveling work before the shed can be placed, adding both time and cost to the project.

Finally, consider the type of storage you plan to undertake. If you’re primarily storing gardening equipment, a smaller shed might suffice. However, if you need to store larger items like lawnmowers, power tools, or even small vehicles (check local regulations first!), you'll require significantly more space. Don’t be swayed by the perceived ‘value’ of a large shed if it doesn’t meet your specific storage needs; careful planning and accurate measurement are far more important than simply choosing the biggest option available. Always prioritise functionality over size, and you’ll be much happier with your garden shed investment in the long run.