Outdoor Storage Buying Guide
If you are looking for a better place to keep your garden tools, pool toys and other outdoor gear, Canadian Tire has your solution. Garden sheds and deck boxes provide a safe, dry space to store your equipment, and are easy to install.
Finding the right type of garden shed or deck box is easy if you know how to choose. It’s important to consider what size you will require, what you will be storing, the type of door opening you need, the features you are looking for, whether you prefer resin or metal, the assembly required, and the warranty offered.
Garden Shed Styles and Sizes
There are a number of size and style options. Garden sheds offer more storage room, and many can house large pieces of equipment such as lawnmowers, lawn tractors, and garden tools. Be sure to consider the size of the largest equipment you will be storing and choose accordingly. When you measure the area where you will be keeping the shed, be sure to measure accurately, and take into account extra dimensions such as roof overhang. Select a garden shed high enough to allow you to stand up comfortably, and with doors wide enough for storage of your largest items.
Smaller storage options, including deck boxes and benches, are also available. These are available in horizontal or vertical styles ideal for smaller spaces such as balconies, decks, or small yards . They can be used for garden tool storage, patio furniture cushions, storing of outdoor toys & accessories, or refuse storage. They are lightweight, making them easy to move around and are easy to set up. Some also come with a seating option built into the unit for further utility in a small space.
Garden Shed Materials
Garden sheds and deck boxes sold at Canadian Tire are constructed of metal (galvanized steel) or resin. Both offer unique benefits and contribute to style and design.
Hot-dipped galvanized steel sheds provide a tough double baked-on polyester enamel finish and years of maintenance-free use. Steel is scratch and fade-resistant, designed to withstand harsh weather conditions, and provides long-term durability. It is an inexpensive way to increase storage space in your backyard.
Single wall resin sheds are lightweight, rustproof and have superior corrosion resistance, ensuring they will not crack, chip or peel. It is also, UV-protected for long-lasting strength and colour protection. It is easy to clean and maintenance-free, as well as dent, stain and mildew-resistant.
Double wall resin sheds feature all of the benefits of traditional resin, with added strength in the wall panels to further avoid denting and sagging. Realistic wood grain finish on the exterior panels is also aesthetically pleasing.
Garden Shed Features
Before you choose a garden shed or storage box, you should compare the features. The size of the door opening is an important consideration. Is it big enough to accommodate your largest equipment? Do the doors lock for security? Some garden sheds also have windows, skylights or lighting that can make finding stored equipment easier. We also carry garden sheds with a power package that can enable you to power your equipment from your shed.
Deck boxes can range from functional to fashionable. Most are constructed of resin to provide protection from the elements, and some are designed to provide extra seating. We also carry deck boxes in colours or designs to blend with your patio furniture.
Garden Shed Assembly
Assembling a garden shed is typically a two-person job. The garden shed must be assembled following the manufacturer's instructions, and it may be beneficial to check municipal bylaws for permit regulations, as these do vary by region (although typically not needed for a pre-fabricated garden shed). Consult your manual before starting to set up your new shed, to make sure that you have all tools required to do the job.
When choosing a location, remember that an garden shed must be set up on a level foundation to ensure its stability and make it easier to line up screw holes on connecting panels. Cement slabs, patio slabs/stones, wood or gravel provide a great base and are easy to construct. However, a more permanent option would be to pour a concrete foundation – although this option requires a little more planning and prep-work. Whichever you choose, ensure that the foundation is larger than the base of your garden shed by about 1' (30.5 cm), and that the shed is anchored to the foundation. The preparation done for the foundation will help with assembly and life of your shed.
Assembling a deck box is easier, and typically a one-person job, as many can be put together without tools.
