How much does a garden shed cost?

Garden shed full cost guide

This guide covers everything from material choices and shed sizes that drive up prices to specifics like brick garden shed costs and installation fees.

You'll also find practical advice on permits, hidden extras, and how to find professionals.

In this cost guide we will talk about:

1. Average garden shed costs
2. Professional garden shed building costs
3. Different garden shed material options costs
4. Garden shed sizes and costs
5. Permits, regulations and hidden garden shed costs
6. Find garden shed builders near you on MyBuilder
7. FAQ: Common questions about garden shed costs

Average garden shed costs

From picking the right materials to deciding on size and style, every choice can impact the price of your garden shed.

On average, you might expect to pay between £500 and £3,000 for a standard garden shed.

Take a look at garden shed costs:

Shed type	Average price
Wooden	£500 – £3,000
Metal	£300 – £1,500
Plastic	£250 – £1,000
Brick	£1,500 – £5,000+

For inspiration on how you might use your space, whether for storage or lifestyle, explore these garden shed ideas.

Professional garden shed building costs

Getting a garden shed built by the professionals takes the stress out of the job and gives you a sturdy, custom space that’ll last for years.

They handle everything from prepping a solid base to using weatherproof timber, adding windows or electrics if you want, and making sure it all meets local rules.

Take a look at the different costs that could be included:

Installation type	Average cost
Standard install	£100 – £500
Foundation work	£200 – £300/day
Carpentry services	£150 – £250/day

If you’re thinking about other landscaping projects too, you may also want to explore related guides such as the cost of pathway installation or hedge removal cost.

Different garden shed material options costs

One of the most important factors affecting the garden shed cost is the material used. Each type of shed material brings its own set of advantages, maintenance requirements and price points.

Take a look at the different materials here:

Material	Cost range
Wood	£500 - £3,000
Metal	£300 - £1,500
Plastic	£250 - £1,000
Brick	£1,500 - £5,000+

Note: While brick sheds are durable and low maintenance, their higher initial cost is due to both materials and skilled labour.

If you're unsure where to begin, our guide on how to build a shed provides helpful insights into materials and methods.

Garden shed sizes and costs

The size of your garden shed is one of the biggest factors in the garden shed cost, bigger ones need more materials and labour time, so prices climb quickly.

Here’s a quick look at typical sizes and what they tend to cost:

• Small (6x4 ft): Around £500, great for basic tools or bikes.
• Medium (8x6 ft): Usually £800 - £1,500, perfect for garden gear and lawnmowers.
• Large (12x8 ft or 12x10 ft): Often £2,000 - £3,500+, ideal for workshops or extra storage. For additional guidance, our cost to remove an old shed article may help when planning for space or replacing an existing structure.

Permits, regulations and hidden garden shed costs

Most garden sheds don’t need planning permission in the UK if they’re under 2.5m tall (or 3m with a pitched roof) and placed at the back of your house, away from boundaries.

Hidden costs to watch for:

• Beyond the shed itself, these extras can add 20–50% to your garden shed cost:
• Solid base (concrete/slabs): Essential for stability, typically £300–£800 depending on size.
• Waste disposal: Old shed removal or packaging waste can cost £100–£300 for skip hire.

Find garden shed builders near you on MyBuilder

Our platform connects you with verified garden shed builders near you. It’s easy to post your job today, and then quickly find garden shed builders who can get the job done.

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FAQ: Common questions about garden shed costs

Is it more affordable to buy a pre-made garden shed or build one myself?

Pre-made garden sheds can be more cost-effective if you lack the time or skills for DIY construction, as basic assembly is often included. However, building a shed yourself may reduce costs by 15–25% if you source materials carefully and don’t need professional help. It also allows for customisation to suit your specific needs.

What are the long-term benefits of investing in a higher-priced garden shed?

Spending more on a garden shed typically means higher quality materials, such as treated timber or durable metal, which offer greater longevity and lower maintenance. Features like weatherproofing, better security and insulation can also protect stored items and extend the shed’s lifespan.

Are there any hidden fees I should consider when planning to buy or build a garden shed?

Be aware of potential hidden costs such as delivery charges, groundwork or foundation preparation, tools for assembly and planning permission fees. Additional features like electrical wiring or security systems can also increase the overall cost.

What are the main challenges one might face during the garden shed construction process?

Common challenges include preparing a suitable foundation, complying with planning regulations, sourcing the right tools and materials and dealing with weather during the build. Precision is essential and lack of experience may affect the structural quality of the shed.