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Sheds can come windowed or windowless, and small details like this can depend on what you’re using it for. Here’s what to weigh up before you decide, focusing on the pros and cons.
Pros of Windowed Sheds
Here’s what it’s like when your shed has windows:
Letting in natural light
This is a perk if you use the shed beyond storage—say, for DIY or potting. You won’t always need to wire in lighting or run extension leads, which can be a hassle. Even small windows help, saving you from having to reach for a torch during the day.
The benefit is there as long as your shed gets some daylight.
A bit of airflow
With those windows open, stale air is out and fresh air is in. That helps reduce damp, stops moisture buildup, and makes the shed less stuffy while you’re inside.
It’s also better for anything stored long-term, like tools or cushions, that can be damaged by a lack of airflow. Keep in mind, though, that you won’t get the same airflow from windows that don’t open, let alone without them.
Make sure to check if the model of windowed shed you’re looking at buying includes opening ones. Most shed windows do not open!
Passive heat in cooler months
Even a bit of sunlight through your shed windows can raise the temperature inside. Though this won’t turn it warm, it can make the space more bearable if you’re in there for a while. That extra warmth means paint, glue, and sealants are less likely to thicken or spoil in the cold.
Note: It’s not a replacement for heating, but it helps take the edge off without using electricity.
Looks more like part of the garden
Windows break up the plain panels and make the shed look more like a garden room than a basic storage unit. If it sits near the house, patio, or seating area, this can make it feel more in tune with the rest of the garden. As a workspace, it also looks more like somewhere you’d want to spend time, especially with these shed ideas.
Cons of Windowed Sheds
While windows can be useful, they do come with a few trade-offs, including:
Security risk
Passersby and neighbours can look through the windows, especially up close, and see what’s inside. This becomes more of an issue if the shed sits near a road, footpath, or shared access. It might also target the wrong person if you store valuable items, like bikes, furniture, and more.
Solution: Use frosted film or install blinds, so light still comes in but the contents stay out of sight.
Heat build-up
Natural sunlight has its benefits, but excessive direct sunlight can lead to intense heat inside on hot days. For one, paint, garden chemicals, or electricals can spoil, leak, or become less reliable. Not to mention that your workshop could become very unpleasant to be in.
Solutions: Position heat-sensitive items away from direct light and/or add ventilation.
Extra cost
Adding windows tends to push up the price, even more so if they open. These features are found on upgraded sheds, like a log cabin shed. You’re not just paying for the glass, but you’re also often paying for a better feature.
Solution: If you’re on a budget, opt for sheds that offer windows as an add-on rather than built in.
Pros of Windowless Sheds
No windows might sound limiting at first, but it can also be an advantage.
More privacy
If the shed backs onto a footpath or sits near the fence, windowless walls stop anyone from seeing in. Whatever you store inside, valuable or not, stay out of sight, giving you one less thing to worry about.
Improved security
No windows means no glass to break, no frames to tamper with, and nothing on show to draw attention. That lowers the risk of break-ins. It also makes it easier to reinforce the door or add locks, since the rest of the structure is more solid by design.
Cooler inside
Direct sunlight can raise the internal temperature of a shed fast in summer or during a heatwave. A fully enclosed design slows that down. It also helps limit moisture build-up caused by sudden changes in temperature.
Note: The windowless design is one way to reduce heat build-up and doesn’t take the place of insulation.
More wall space
You get full use of all four walls! That gives you more freedom to install shelves, hang tools, or fix up storage rails. You’re also free to switch walls around later, since they’re all the same.
Cons of Windowless Sheds
Not having windows might work for storage, but it does come with a few compromises, such as:
No natural light
It will be dim inside, even on bright days, and installing electricity might be needed. This isn’t ideal if you’re regularly in and out during the day as well as at night.
Solution: Battery- or solar-powered shed lights will do if power isn’t an option.
Poor ventilation
The lack of windows limits airflow, so stale air and moisture are more likely to get trapped inside. Over time, this can lead to rust, mould, or warped materials if condensation sets in.
Solution: Open the door for a bit to let the air circulate and prevent things from getting musty.
Should I Get a Shed with Windows or Without?
It comes down to how you plan to use it. Day-to-day access? Windows help. Lock-and-leave storage? A windowless option keeps it straightforward.
Not quite sure yet? Have a look through our wooden sheds—seeing the styles and features side by side might help you narrow it down.
