❌ The 7 Most Common Shed Buying Mistakes (And How to Avoid Them)
Buying a shed might seem simple — but get it wrong, and you could be left with a wobbly structure, poor storage, or wasted money. At NextDaySheds, we’ve helped thousands of customers get it right the first time. Here are the 7 biggest shed-buying mistakes people make — and how to avoid them.
1️⃣ Choosing the Wrong Size
It’s the classic one — ordering a shed that’s too small. You think 6x4 will do, but after a lawnmower, tools, and a few storage boxes… you’re already out of room.
How to avoid it:
Always measure your space properly and think long-term. Add 20–30% extra space beyond what you currently need — future-proof your purchase.
2️⃣ Ignoring the Base
No matter how solid the shed, if the base isn’t flat and level, your shed won’t sit right — leading to uneven doors, leaks, or even structural damage.
How to avoid it:
Prepare a solid base before delivery: paving slabs, timber frame, or concrete are all good options. It must be level and properly drained.
3️⃣ Underestimating Delivery Access
Your garden might fit the shed — but can we get the panels there? Tight alleyways, steps, or no side access can create serious delivery issues.
How to avoid it:
Measure your access routes, not just the garden. If unsure, call our team — we’ll tell you if access is likely to be an issue.
4️⃣ Skipping Pressure Treatment
Cheaper sheds often come untreated or only dip-treated, meaning they’ll need extra care and could rot within a couple of years.
How to avoid it:
Stick with pressure-treated timber. It resists rot, insects, and water damage — giving you a shed that lasts up to 15 years with minimal maintenance. All our sheds are pressure treated as standard.
5️⃣ Thinking Flat Pack Means “Hard Work”
Some people avoid flat-pack sheds because they think it’ll be too hard to build. But modern kits are way easier than they used to be.
How to avoid it:
Choose a flat-pack shed with pre-built panels and clear instructions (like ours). You’ll need basic tools and a mate — most builds are done in under half a day.
6️⃣ Forgetting About Roof Height and Overhang
A shed might fit on paper — but the roof height and overhang can clash with fences, trees, or property lines.
How to avoid it:
Double check height and roof shape (e.g. apex vs pent). Also consider drainage from overhangs — don’t put the shed right up against a wall.
7️⃣ Leaving Security as an Afterthought
It’s easy to focus on size or shape and forget about how secure the shed will be. Weak locks, thin doors, and exposed hinges make your stuff vulnerable.
How to avoid it:
Pick a shed with thick cladding, strong door frames, and lockable doors. For extra peace of mind, upgrade to one of our Security Sheds — designed for tool and equipment protection.
✅ Get It Right With NextDaySheds
We’ve built our sheds — and our service — to make sure none of these mistakes trip you up:
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✅ Pressure-treated timber
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✅ Free next-day delivery
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✅ Flat-pack kits for easy assembly
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✅ Expert support if you need it
Don’t waste time or money fixing bad decisions — get it right the first time with NextDaySheds.
