sheds - how to select

If you plan to use the garden shed as a workshop as well as for storage, it's well worth considering a model with greater wall height. This will cost more initially but a few bumps on the head will make you wish you'd spent that little bit extra.

You will also require ventilation and storage space. Some manufacturers have a range of workbenches to suit their sheds, as well as shelving and pegboard style storage.

What's the biggest you can afford and the smallest that will do the job for you? Most people recommend looking at a shed size 10 to 20 per cent larger than your current needs dictate. Once the garden shed is there, you'll always find something extra to put inside it.

Natural light can also be important. Will you fit windows, skylights or translucent roofing panels? If you'll be storing expensive tools or sporting equipment you'll need security. Make sure any windows and doors you choose are lockable.

Do you want to hide it or make a feature of it? A good quality timber garden shed can actually add value to your home and be used as an attractive feature in your garden.

Choosing the site

Think about the position of the shed in your garden. Is it located for convenient access, will you be able to get around it during assembly, will it be easily concealed or is it in the right place to work as a feature?

Is the area where the shed is to go likely to be affected by storm runoff or damp ground? If you answered yes to either question, the floor should be raised above ground level.

If pouring a concrete floor, you must ensure the site where your shed is to be assembled is level and flat. Sheds built on unlevelled sites can end up with gaps between panels, poorly operating doors, water leaks and other problems. On sloping sites, stumps or piers with bearers and joists on top may be a better option.

Check that any doors or windows are positioned to suit the site where you want to put the shed. Can you get the mower around the corner and into the door? Sliding doors usually create a wider aperture, handy for bulky equipment. Some manufacturers allow you to customise their basic designs by changing the position of these features prior to manufacture and delivery. Beware as later modifications can void your warranty.