Image via MS Designer
Britain’s love for garden sheds is undeniable. Statistics show that two-thirds of Brits own a shed, and many more dream of having one. While these structures come in all sorts of materials, metal garden sheds are a growing favourite.
However, some potential buyers are put off by common myths. If you’re one of them, we’ll debunk the top five concerns and provide tips (and options) to help you decide if a steel storage unit is for you!
Image via Gemini
Myth 1: Metal Garden Sheds Are Rust Buckets
Today’s metal sheds are, in fact, rust-resistant, making them reliable storage. During production, manufacturers coat metal with zinc, a more reactive metal than iron. This layer prioritises oxidation, forming a protective barrier shielding steel from rust or iron oxide. This is similar to the experiment with the zinc-coated nail that didn’t rust!
Galvanised steel is your long-lasting option
The most common protective coating is galvanised steel, which has a zinc layer that weathers slowly. To give an idea of what it looks like in sheds, have a look at this BillyOh Partner Apex Metal Shed. It’s designed with galvanised steel roofing and panels and a deep-ribbed interior frame in a green metal finish. This prevents corrosion and the formation of rust, with no annual treatments or maintenance required.
Use paint as an added protective layer
You can never go wrong with paint when it comes to doubling your metal shed’s barrier against moisture and oxygen that eventually can lead to rust. We recommend using oil-based or lacquer-based paint. Its glossy shine is also a huge plus if you wish to bring life back into your metal storage. Don’t forget to apply a primer suitable for metal and galvanised surfaces to create a bond between the paint and zinc coating.
Image via Gemini
Myth 2: Metal Sheds Freeze in the Cold
This can be true for basic metal sheds, which consist of four walls of metal sheeting that are less than 1mm thick. Such models are best used for storage only. However, there are also insulated metal buildings. When you search for insulated metal sheds, you’ll find plenty of options online! You might even come across our own Sunjoy Esquire Garden Studio, designed with a fully insulated interior.
Here are some of its design highlights:
- Pre-insulated 40.8mm layered wall panels and roof
- Three-layer waterproof and insulated flooring
- Continuous air barrier for excellent energy efficiency
- Double glazing on all windows and doors
The benefits of insulation in metal sheds
Here’s how the addition of insulation in metal garden sheds becomes a game-changer:
- Think of insulation as a blanket around your metal shed. Just like a blanket traps warmth and blocks out the cold, insulation keeps the inside comfortable—not only for stored items but also for you if you use it as a makeshift workshop, for instance. It stays warm in winter and cool in summer.
- By keeping the temperature inside stable, there’s less chance for moisture to form. This is a common problem in many metal sheds, but built-in insulation in most, if not all, units available on the market saves the day!
- The amount of heat that escapes in the winter and keeps the heat out in the summer is reduced. This means your cooling and heating systems, if you use them, don’t have to work as hard to maintain a comfortable temperature. As a result, you save energy and reduce your utility bills. This is a huge perk if you’re considering a shed with electricity.
Some units allow you to choose your preferred type of insulation. So, the bottom line is this: metal sheds won’t freeze in the cold as long as they are insulated. Fortunately, there are metal shed insulation solutions available to keep it comfortable.
Image via MS Designer
Myth 3: Rain Makes a Lot of Noise on Your Metal Roof
It’s a common misconception that rain on a metal roof creates unbearable noise. While heavy downpours can be loud, factors like the material’s thickness, insulation, and sealed gaps or openings can make a big difference.
The thicker panels used in steel sheds work well in dampening the sound of raindrops hitting the roof. Insulation absorbs sound waves on top of maintaining a stable temperature. Weatherstripping, e.g., sealing gaps around doors and windows, keeps noise from sneaking in.
Solid decking is another way to reduce noise compared to an open-frame design. According to studies by the Acoustic Group at the University of Lulea, Sweden, a metal roof on solid decking registers at 52 dBA during rain, while an open-frame design hits 61 dBA. For comparison, asphalt shingle roofs are quieter at 46 dBA. This shows how solid decking can really help minimise rain noise on metal sheds.
So don’t let this myth hold you back—metal roofs can be actually durable and surprisingly quiet!
Myth 4: Stuck with a Bland Metal Box
Metal sheds have come a long way from their utilitarian past. Today, you can find a surprising range of customisation options to suit your style and needs.
The colour? Your options include classic greys, vibrant greens, sleek white, and even a woodgrain finish, like this BillyOh Top Woodgrain Apex Metal Shed. You can even paint them to match your outdoor space’s theme!
Let there be light (or maybe not) with windows and no windows customisation. Some available units also come with edge skylights that brighten the interior without taking up wall space. Take a cue from the BillyOh Centro II Pent Aluminium Metal Shed. It comes in an attractive white-ash finish, with top-edge skylights that fill the interior with natural light, plus in-built vents within the top skylight glazing.
These are just some of the fantastic features metal garden sheds offer, enough to prove that they are no longer limited to basic designs.
BillyOh Centro Pent Metal Shed via GardenBuildinggsDirect.co.uk
Myth 5: Metal Garden Sheds = Lower Property Value
Some may think metal garden sheds can detract from property value, but that’s not necessarily so. A well-kept garden building, regardless of the material, instantly boosts any property value. Besides the extra storage or workspace they offer, homeowners love the idea of purchasing a home with a functional outdoor space. Not to mention how durable and low-maintenance metal sheds are, making them more appealing as they’re long-lasting and cost-effective in the long run.
Aesthetics won’t be an issue either, as you already know (please refer back to debunked myth #4). If you’re looking for options, our range of metal sheds is a great starting point—what you’re seeking might be in one of our collections!
And in the worst-case scenario, metal sheds are easy to dismantle and dispose of, so there is no need for prospective property buyers to be put off.
Round-up
Metal sheds get a bad rap, but those myths aren’t true. They aren’t rust buckets; cue, modern galvanised steel that is tough and built to last. And if you think they’ll freeze in winter, insulated options keep things comfortable year-round.
Worried about rain noise? Insulation and solid decking help keep the racket down. And metal sheds aren’t just boring boxes—there are plenty of styles and colours to pick from! Contrary to the belief that metal sheds lower property value, it’s actually the opposite in most cases.
In short, metal garden sheds are a worthwhile investment! This guide can convince you further: Why Metal Sheds Are a Smart Choice: Top 10 Advantages