The best part is, wooden sheds can be converted fairly easily from one use to another. If done correctly, a garden shed can be used for a couple of purposes at the same time. For example, a pool cabana is not only used to change into a swimsuit, but is also a great place to store the pool supplies and any chemicals that should be stored away from the main house.

So, why build one, anyway? Besides their versatility and storage capabilities, wooden sheds are fun to build and they can be a great starter project if you aren’t that handy with tools. And, it should only require a weekend’s worth of time to complete.

You know what you want a shed for, but WHY a wooden shed? Once you have built a wooden shed, you’ll notice right away the long-term value you have over a plastic or even a metal shed. They may cost more up front, but they are more pleasing to the eye and if you build from a set of good shed plans, you have way more options.

Plastic and metal sheds are actually harder to modify or add additional space to than wooden sheds. And, as far as repairs go, they are much quicker, easier and cost less for wooden sheds. If you have ever tried to fix a plastic shed, you know what I mean.

The best wood to use for sheds is cedar. Cedar contains oil that occurs naturally. This oil is what gives the wood its distinct aroma and also protects it from insects and rot.

Another option you have is to buy a wooden shed kit that comes already cut to size. And, depending on the manufacturer, a lot of the assembly is already done. This makes for a fast and easy way to get a shed put up in your backyard.

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Roof made from attractive cedar shingles.

Durability and Stability
This hardwood is well known for its strength and durability and, because of this, it has been used for centuries by Native Americans to build roofs, canoes, and a wide variety of other uses. Today, its commonly used for outdoor furniture, exterior siding, decks, doors, beams, etc. Cedar is arguably the best all-weather wood available and is the perfect building material for garden sheds. In fact, cedar is used in many of the world’s saunas that expose the wood to extreme heat and moisture. Cedar lasts in harsh environments for decades.

Pest and Rot Resistance
Cedar naturally contains oil that repels bugs and also protects against fungi that cause wood to decay. This natural resistance to rot and insects is one of the most appealing aspects to anyone looking to build a garden shed.

Beauty
The light reddish color of cedar makes it a preferred choice of outdoor building products. Unfinished cedar is richly textured with colors ranging from warm ambers to dark reds. It accepts a wide range of finishes that enhance its natural beauty even more. Because of its cellular makeup, cedar resists warping and deforming so your wooden garden shed will look great for many years.

Aroma
The unique aroma that cedar provides also acts to protect the wood from insects and decay. And the therapeutic property of cedar includes the stimulation of circulation and sedation of the nervous system.

Acoustic
Cedar wood actually absorbs sound to help provide a quieter atmosphere, making your garden shed a place for relaxation.

Ease
Even though cedar is a hardwood, it is also very lightweight which makes it easy to install. Its straight grain and uniform texture make it an ideal material for cutting and nailing. Cedar also allows for easy cleanup in case of any spills. Since cedar is very low in resins, it accepts many stains, oils and paints. This also makes stronger glue holds possible. Maintenance is also made easier by the fact that cedar holds tight to fasteners such as nails and screws.

So, there you have it. When it comes to wooden sheds, you can’t go wrong with cedar for its beauty, durability and preservative qualities.

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