About Our Metal Sheds 🔒
Metal sheds offer the perfect blend of security, durability and low maintenance for UK gardens. Built from galvanised steel with robust cylinder locks, these structures protect your tools, bikes and garden equipment for decades with minimal upkeep. Our collection features apex and pent roof designs in 8ft and 10ft widths, with sizes ranging from compact 8x6 models to spacious 10x12 storage buildings.
Every metal shed arrives with a 20-year warranty covering rust and corrosion, and we deliver free across mainland UK within 5 days of ordering. The galvanised steel construction resists rot, warping and insect damage—problems that plague wooden alternatives. Available in grey or green powder-coated finishes, you can add optional windows for natural light or internal shelving to maximise storage space.
Hormann metal sheds represent the premium end of our range, featuring 0.35mm steel panels (compared to 0.25mm in budget models), reinforced door frames and advanced locking mechanisms. This German engineering means better resistance to attempted break-ins and longer structural life. With prices starting from £387 for an 8x6 model, metal sheds cost 20-30% less than equivalent wooden buildings whilst requiring zero annual treatment.
Key Features of Metal Garden Sheds
🏗️ Construction & Materials
- Galvanised steel sides and roof panels resist rust for 20+ years
- 0.25mm to 0.35mm steel thickness depending on model
- Hot-dipped zinc coating applied before assembly
- Reinforced corner posts and door frames on premium models
🔐 Security & Access
- Cylinder locks with key access as standard
- Optional padlock hasps for additional security
- Double-hinged doors on larger models (10ft+ wide)
- Lockable window shutters available on windowed versions
🎨 Design & Finishes
- Apex or pent roof profiles to suit your space
- Grey or dark green powder-coated finishes
- Horizontal or vertical panel designs
- Optional skylights and windows for natural light
✅ Practical Benefits
- Free UK mainland delivery included
- 20-year manufacturer warranty against rust
- No annual treatment or painting required
- 5-day delivery time on most models
Metal vs Wood vs Plastic: A Quick Comparison
| Feature |
Metal Sheds |
Wooden Sheds |
Plastic Sheds |
| Initial Cost |
£387-£1,165 |
£450-£2,000+ |
£300-£900 |
| Maintenance |
None required |
Annual treatment |
Occasional cleaning |
| Security Rating |
Excellent (with locks) |
Good (if treated) |
Poor to Fair |
| Lifespan |
20-25 years |
15-20 years |
10-15 years |
| Condensation Risk |
Moderate (needs ventilation) |
Low |
Low to Moderate |
| Assembly Time |
4-6 hours |
6-10 hours |
2-4 hours |
Metal sheds win on durability and security but need proper ventilation to prevent condensation. Wooden sheds offer better natural temperature regulation but demand annual treatment with preservative. Plastic sheds provide the easiest assembly but can't match metal for tool security or wind resistance.
For general garden storage needs like cushions or plant pots, plastic works fine. But for securing bikes, power tools or ride-on mowers, galvanised steel construction delivers far superior protection. Our metal shed range includes models specifically designed for bike storage, with reinforced floors rated to 150kg per square metre.
Choosing Your Metal Shed
📏 Size Selection
Start by measuring your available space, allowing an extra 30cm on all sides for assembly access and drainage. An 8x6 metal shed (244cm x 183cm) stores two bikes, a mower and hand tools comfortably. Step up to 10x8 (305cm x 244cm) for workshop space or bulkier items like garden furniture during winter. The largest 10x12 models suit serious tool collections or small business storage.
🏠 Roof Style Considerations
Apex roofs (pointed like a house) shed rainwater more effectively and offer 180-185cm internal height at the centre, enough to stand fully upright. Pent roofs (single slope) keep the height under 2m, avoiding planning permission in most UK locations, and fit neatly against boundary fences. If your shed backs onto a property line, a pent design maximises space whilst respecting neighbour relations.
🧱 Foundation Requirements
Never place a metal shed directly on soil or grass—it will rust through the floor panels within 3-4 years. You need a firm, level base. The most economical option is compacted paving slabs on a 50mm sand bed (budget £80-£120 for an 8x6 base). For permanent installations, a 75mm concrete slab with mesh reinforcement costs £200-£300 but lasts the shed's entire 20-year lifespan.
💧 Preventing Condensation
Metal sheds are prone to condensation because steel conducts temperature rapidly. Solve this with three steps: install roof vents (most models include one, add a second for sheds over 8x8), leave a 10mm gap under the door for airflow, and use moisture-absorbing crystals in plastic tubs placed in corners. If storing electronics or documents, add 25mm polystyrene insulation sheets fixed to interior walls with adhesive—this eliminates 90% of condensation problems.
🛡️ The Hormann Advantage: Premium Security & Durability
Hormann metal sheds use 0.35mm hot-dipped galvanised steel compared to 0.25mm in standard models—that's 40% thicker material. This matters because thinner steel dents easily during storms, and dents create weak points where rust starts. Hormann panels resist impacts better and maintain their weatherproof integrity for 25+ years.
The locking system is equally superior. Hormann fits anti-drill, anti-pick cylinder locks with hardened steel inserts, the same specification used in commercial premises. The door frame itself is reinforced with double-thickness steel at the lock point, preventing crow-bar attacks. Every Hormann shed also includes pre-drilled anchor points for bolting to your concrete base—preventing the shed from being lifted or blown away.
Frequently Asked Questions about Metal Sheds
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How much does a metal shed cost?
Prices start from £387 for a basic 8x6 model and reach £1,165 for larger 10x12 Hormann premium sheds. Mid-range 8x8 models with windows typically cost £550-£700. Remember to budget an extra £80-£300 for a proper concrete or paving slab base, which is essential for longevity. Our prices include free UK mainland delivery and 20-year warranties.
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Do metal sheds rust?
Quality galvanised steel sheds resist rust for 20-25 years when properly maintained. The zinc coating protects the steel beneath, even if scratched. Rust only becomes a problem if water pools around the base or if you skip the foundation and place the shed on soil. Our 20-year warranty covers rust-through caused by manufacturing defects.
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How do I stop condensation in my metal shed?
Install at least two roof vents (most sheds include one as standard), ensure your door has a 10mm gap at the bottom for airflow, and place moisture-absorbing crystal tubs in corners. For complete condensation elimination, fix 25mm polystyrene insulation sheets to interior walls using spray adhesive—this costs £40-£60 for an 8x6 shed. Avoid storing wet items inside.
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Are metal sheds secure?
Metal sheds with cylinder locks and reinforced door frames offer excellent security—significantly better than plastic alternatives. For maximum protection, choose a Hormann model with anti-pick locks, bolt the shed to a concrete base using the pre-drilled anchor points, and add a padlock hasp (around £15) for double-locking.
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Do I need planning permission for a metal shed?
Most metal sheds under 2.5m high and covering less than 50% of your garden don't need planning permission in England and Wales. If your shed sits within 2m of a boundary, height restrictions drop to 2m. Pent roof designs typically measure 1.9-2m high, keeping you safely under limits. Always check with your local planning authority if you live in a conservation area or listed building.
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How long does it take to build a metal shed?
An 8x6 metal shed takes 4-5 hours for two people with basic DIY skills. Larger 10x8 models need 6-7 hours. You'll need a cordless drill, spirit level, rubber mallet and socket set. The trickiest part is ensuring the base is perfectly level—a 5mm slope creates alignment problems during assembly. Consider our professional installation service for a guaranteed weathertight build.
✅ Ready to Choose Your Metal Shed?
Browse our complete range of sheds to compare metal against other materials, or call our team on 0800 098 8877 for advice on sizing, security features and delivery. Every order includes free UK mainland delivery, 20-year warranty and expert support from garden storage specialists.
