Which type of shed is best for an allotment?

An allotment shed has a whole host of purposes from providing storage, shelter as well as protection for your plants throughout the year.  

Not forgetting an allotment shed can provide you with a spot to stay dry when the unpredictable British weather sets in. 

First things first, find out whether your allotment plot can accommodate a shed. In some local allotments, plots can be particularly small meaning adding a shed might not be the best use of space. You should also check whether there is a restriction or limitation on the size of the shed you can add to your plot. But if you do have the room, great! Let’s find out what type of allotment shed is the best for you.

Wooden, Plastic or Metal Allotment Shed?

There are three main types of allotment sheds to choose from: wooden, plastic and metal. Generally speaking, traditional wooden sheds are most commonly seen in allotments and are both attractive, affordable and sturdy. However, the end choice is entirely down to your preference, budget and time.

Wooden Allotment Sheds

Wooden allotment sheds are a great option as they will naturally complement and blend in with the surroundings so as not to stick out like a sore thumb. 

It’s also important to buy your allotment shed from a reputable supplier which has pressure treated the timber and has sturdy fixtures and fittings to ensure you have a shed for years to come and not just a season. For more information on our high quality allotment sheds, please contact us.

Pressure treatment will ensure your shed is protected from rot, decay and fungal and insect attack. Whilst, a water repellent will help to prevent moisture build-up during wet and damp weather conditions. 

When purchasing your wooden allotment shed, also look out for the thickness of the framing and cladding as this will have an impact on how long your garden shed will last.

It is also important to consider the security of your allotment shed since it will be mostly unprotected. 

We suggest for those looking for an allotment shed consider a windowless shed which will ensure no passersby can look inside and see if you have anything valuable. We would also recommend adding a quality lock to secure and protect your shed from theft and ensuring the fixtures and hinges are sturdy and doors are double Z braced to prevent break-ins. 

If you’re interested in buying an allotment shed, please explore our range of garden sheds and add a padlock to your purchase. 

Metal Allotment Sheds

Metal allotment sheds are becoming a popular alternative as they offer the same space, security and longevity as a wooden shed, however, they do not require as much maintenance. 

It is important to consider that generally speaking, metal allotment sheds do not come with a floor and are not as attractive as a wooden shed. With this in mind, you will need to prepare a base prior to erecting your shed. For more information, check out our article on how to build a shed base.

Despite them not being as aesthetically pleasing, their imposing appearance can act as a deterrent to potential intruders and thieves. Even so, we would still recommend investing in a premium lock to protect your allotment shed if it doesn’t come with one. Likewise to a wooden shed, we would encourage you to opt for a metal allotment shed without windows to ensure potential thieves cannot see what you are storing in your shed.

One of the greatest advantages of a metal allotment shed is that they do not burn. Unfortunately, vandals have a tendency to torch allotment sheds, and as we know, a wooden allotment shed would be the perfect target. 

Plastic Allotment Sheds

Plastic sheds are also a popular option for an allotment shed. Similarly to metal sheds, they are equally as low maintenance so you won’t have to worry about maintaining your shed from year to year. 

Not all plastic sheds come with a floor so something to look out for when buying your allotment shed. 

If you purchase your plastic shed from a reputable supplier who uses quality materials, you can have peace of mind knowing your allotment shed is secure and resistant to damage. As mentioned previously, ensure you have a padlock and key for your allotment shed to protect your valuable belongings. 

Considerations for your allotment shed

  • Doors. When buying your allotment shed you should consider the practicality of the doors. For example, double opening doors will be much more convenient for getting equipment and tools in and out of your garden shed, particularly, larged items such as lawnmowers and tables. 
  • Sheds Base. One of the most important considerations is your shed base. The shed base is key to the longevity of your allotment shed. Typically, shed bases can be constructed from concrete, paving slabs or timber. If you do not have a shed base and your shed is placed on wet ground it will warp and rot over time. Learn how to build a shed base. 
  • Aspect. If you anticipate potting seedlings if your allotment shed you may want to have an easterly or southerly aspect to get the most sunlight. 
  • Security. As we have touched upon already, security for your allotment shed is particularly important. Some allotment plot owners choose to leave their shed door unlocked so that if thieves do try and steal something, they do not damage the shed in the process. However, if you are storing particularly valuable items, we always advise investing in a quality padlock. Some may also consider investing in an alarm, whilst you may not be in close enough proximity to hear the alarm, the alarm should act as a deterrent and put off most thieves. 
  • Shelving. Have you considered putting up shelving in your allotment shed? Shelving allows you to make use of the vertical space available and keep your shed tidy and organised, particularly, if you are thinking about growing lots of things or storing lots of items in your shed. 
  • Guttering & a water butt. It’s worth considering installing guttering and a water butt next to your allotment shed to have access to free water all year round.