Choosing the Right Size Shed: A Quick Guide to Getting It Right 📏🏡

Choosing the right size shed doesn’t have to be hard—but how big should it be? Too small, and you’ll outgrow it before the season changes. Too large, and you might end up with wasted space (and a bigger price tag than you needed).

The key to choosing the right size shed is thinking through your current needs—and your future ones. Here’s a quick guide to help you get it right the first time.

Start with What You’re Storing 🧰

Before anything else, make a list of what you plan to store. Is it just lawn tools and a mower? Or are you eyeing a workshop setup, space for animal feed, or a full-blown hobby space?

A good rule of thumb:

8×10 or 10×12 sheds are great for basic garden tools, push mowers, and a few storage bins.

12×16 sheds can fit riding mowers, shelving units, and larger equipment.

14×24 and up give you room for workspace, built-in organization, or even dual-purpose setups (like a combo workshop and storage zone).

Check out this guide on what you can store in a shed 

Think About Access and Layout 🚪

It’s not just about what fits—it’s about how easily you can get to it. If you’ll be hauling a wheelbarrow or large tools in and out, you’ll want:

A wide door opening

Plenty of floor space to walk around inside

Shelving or loft options to keep things off the ground

If you plan to use it frequently, consider a double-door model or one with windows and lighting. We break this down further in How to Organize Your Shed for Daily Use.

Consider Your Future Needs

We’ve seen it too many times: someone buys a shed that’s “just enough” for now, only to find they’ve outgrown it within a year. If you’re planning to:

Add animals to your homestead

Start new hobbies or projects

Use your shed for multiple purposes (like storage and workspace)

…it’s smart to size up from the start.

You can always fill space over time, but it’s hard to stretch what isn’t there. Explore our seasonal shed solutions to see how needs shift throughout the year.

Match the Shed to the Property 🏞️

A large shed might seem ideal—until you realize it swallows your entire yard. Think about where the shed will sit, how it looks from your house or the road, and whether you need to leave room for fencing, landscaping, or outdoor play.

You want a shed that serves its purpose and fits your lifestyle. If you’re not sure what’s allowed in your area, our team can help you navigate permits and placement rules.

Wolf Valley Makes It Simple 🐺

At Wolf Valley Buildings, we don’t do one-size-fits-all. Every shed is built to your specs—so whether you need compact efficiency or extra elbow room, we’ll help you find the perfect fit.

Not sure where to start? Check out our tips for first-time shed buyers or swing by a lot to see real size comparisons in person.

Wrap-Up: Your Perfect Shed Awaits

A well-sized shed isn’t just storage—it’s peace of mind. With a little planning now, you’ll have a space that works hard for you for years to come.

📞 Ready to talk options? Contact our team today or stop by your nearest Wolf Valley location.