SHED ESSENTIALS

We love our garden sheds, but if you are thinking of investing in a new one this year be sure to read our buyer’s guide first

The humble garden shed can fulfil so many functions, whether as a secure place to store tools, somewhere to make a cuppa and to escape the rain or as a garden room, a quiet place from which to gaze on and enjoy the fruits of your labours. Increasingly for some, the shed is even becoming a comfy place to work from home. There are models to fit all these needs and more and with prices ranging from a few hundred pounds to several thousand.

FOR SECURITY

If security rather than good looks is your aim an all-metal building is hard to beat. Most of the major manufacturers supply these and they offer ultimate security against theft as well as being a convenient place to store all your gardening essentials. They may not score tops for good looks but their tough, functional appearance is often enough to deter would-be thieves and send them looking for softer targets, even before they have attempted a break-in.

As far as security is concerned, especially on allotment plots, windows are a bit of liability both because they offer easy access and allow thieves to see if there is anything worth stealing and most metal sheds simply don’t have them. Ventilation is instead via integral vents in the walls or along the eaves to ensure an essential change of air.

Some come with an optional base while others have an integral metal one. All should be anchored to the hard standing with screws or bolts for stability and added security. Some metal buildings come with anchor points inside and these offer a second layer of security for expensive tools such as lawnmowers and tillers since they allow you to chain the tools within the building as well as locking the door.