What Size Shed Do I Need? A Guide to Choosing the Right Shed Size

Choosing a backyard storage shed is an exciting way to add more space to your property, but finding the right size can be challenging. Whether you need extra room for lawn equipment, seasonal decorations, gardening supplies, or a backyard workshop, understanding different storage shed sizes can help you make the best decision.

A storage shed that’s too small can quickly become overcrowded, while one that’s too large may take up more backyard space than necessary. Choosing the right shed dimensions is important for maximizing storage space and functionality without overcrowding your property.

So, what size shed do you need? In this shed size guide, we’ll compare popular storage shed sizes, explore common uses, and help you find the best backyard shed for your needs.

What Size Shed Do I Need?

The best storage shed size depends on what you plan to store, how much outdoor space you have, and whether you’ll need additional storage in the future.

For basic lawn and garden equipment, an 8×10 or 10×12 storage shed may provide enough space. If you’re storing a riding lawn mower, multiple bicycles, or larger equipment, a 12×16 shed may be more practical. Larger backyard storage buildings can also provide room for a workshop, hobby space, or additional household storage.

Before choosing a shed size, make a list of everything you plan to keep inside your shed and consider how much room you’ll need to move around comfortably. Comparing storage shed dimensions and available floor space can help you choose the right building for your property.

Storage Shed Size Guide

Not sure which shed size is right for you? This storage shed size comparison highlights popular backyard shed dimensions, square footage, and common uses to help you determine which building best fits your storage needs.

These storage shed size recommendations are general guidelines. Actual storage capacity depends on the building’s interior dimensions, door placement, layout, and the equipment you plan to store.

Is an 8×10 Shed Big Enough?

An 8×10 storage shed provides approximately 80 square feet of floor space, making it a practical option for homeowners who need additional outdoor storage without taking up too much backyard space.

An 8×10 storage shed may be suitable for:

• Push lawn mowers and smaller lawn equipment

• Gardening tools and supplies

• Bicycles and outdoor toys

• Seasonal decorations

• Small shelving units

For homeowners with smaller yards, an 8×10 garden shed can provide convenient storage while leaving plenty of room for landscaping and outdoor activities. This compact backyard shed size is ideal for keeping everyday tools and equipment organized.

However, if you’re planning to store larger equipment or create a workspace, you may want to consider a larger storage building.

Is a 10×12 Shed a Good Size?

A 10×12 storage shed offers 120 square feet of floor space and is a versatile choice for homeowners who need more room than a compact garden shed provides.

This backyard storage shed size can work well for storing lawn care equipment, gardening supplies, outdoor furniture, and other household items.

A 10×12 shed may also provide space for a small workbench or organized shelving, depending on your layout. Adding vertical shelving and storage solutions can help maximize the available floor space.

If you’re looking for a balance between storage capacity and backyard space, a 10×12 storage shed is worth considering.

What Can Fit in a 12×16 Shed?

A 12×16 storage shed provides 192 square feet of floor space, making it a practical option for homeowners who need substantial outdoor storage or want a multipurpose backyard building.

Common uses for a 12×16 storage shed include:

• Storing riding lawn mowers and lawn care equipment

• Organizing bicycles, tools, and seasonal items

• Creating a hobby or woodworking space

• Setting up a backyard workshop

• Storing outdoor furniture and recreational equipment

A 12×16 backyard shed also offers more flexibility if your storage needs change over time. With additional floor space, this storage shed size can accommodate larger equipment while leaving room for shelving and organization.

Before purchasing, measure larger items and verify that the shed’s doors provide enough clearance.

Should You Choose a 12×20 Shed?

If you’re looking for a larger backyard storage building, a 12×20 storage shed offers approximately 240 square feet of floor space.

This additional room can be useful for homeowners who want to combine equipment storage with a dedicated work area. A 12×20 shed provides flexibility for organizing tools, lawn equipment, and recreational belongings.

For example, you might use one section of your outdoor storage shed for lawn equipment and another for a workbench, shelving, or recreational gear.

A 12×20 storage shed may be especially appealing if you want to avoid outgrowing your storage space within a few years.

5 Things to Consider Before Choosing a Storage Shed Size

1. What Will You Store?

Start by identifying the largest items you’ll keep inside your backyard storage shed. Measure riding mowers, lawn equipment, workbenches, and other bulky belongings.

Don’t forget to account for the space needed to open doors, access shelves, and move equipment. Understanding your storage requirements can help you compare different storage shed sizes and choose the right dimensions.

2. How Much Backyard Space Do You Have?

Measure your available outdoor space before choosing a storage shed size.

Consider how your backyard shed will fit alongside landscaping, fences, patios, and other outdoor features. You’ll also want to leave enough room for convenient access and maintenance.

3. Will You Need More Storage Later?

Your outdoor storage needs may grow as you purchase new equipment, expand your hobbies, or accumulate seasonal belongings.

Choosing a slightly larger storage shed now may help you avoid needing additional storage later. When comparing backyard shed sizes, consider both your current belongings and potential future storage requirements.

4. What Will You Use the Shed For?

A garden shed used exclusively for storage may require less room than a building designed for woodworking, gardening, or other hobbies.

If you plan to use your backyard storage building as a workspace, consider additional space for equipment, seating, work surfaces, and safe movement. Larger storage shed dimensions can provide greater flexibility for multipurpose use.

5. Are There Local Building Requirements?

Before purchasing a storage shed, check local zoning regulations, property setbacks, permit requirements, and any homeowners association restrictions.

Requirements can vary depending on your location and the size or intended use of your building. Homeowners shopping for storage sheds in Kentucky or Tennessee should confirm applicable requirements with their local building department before installation.

What Is the Best Shed Size for a Backyard?

For many homeowners, a 10×12 or 12×16 storage shed can offer a useful balance of storage capacity and backyard space.

However, the best backyard shed size depends on your property, available space, and intended use.

A smaller garden shed may be ideal for organizing tools and seasonal supplies, while a larger outdoor storage building may better accommodate lawn equipment, workshops, or future storage needs.

If you’re unsure what size storage shed you need, sketch out your preferred layout and compare it with the dimensions of different buildings. Taking time to evaluate your storage needs can help you choose a backyard shed that provides long-term value.