She Shed Cost
In this post: How much does a she shed cost? Pricing factors and considerations
She sheds are all the rage. Heck, even Cully and I jumped on the she shed bandwagon a few years back when we built our beautiful blue she shed.
These outdoor spaces provide a cozy and inviting place to relax and escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. I mean, who wouldn’t want one?!
To date our DIY She Shed on a Budget article is our number one blog post. I frequently get questions about the cost of a she shed. Our shed was 10×14 and it cost us around $5,000 to build and finish.
That included building materials, insulation, windows and doors, and electricity. We saved thousands of dollars purchasing many of the materials second hand. It was also built around 8 years ago.
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Calculating She Shed Cost
Learning how to calculate your she shed cost can be daunting. From ordering materials to figuring out labor costs, she shed dreamers often find themselves overwhelmed by all the expenses that go into building their she sheds.
These expenses can range from lumber and paint, to labor and customizing details. With different she shed projects comes varying she shed costs, making it difficult to estimate a budget beforehand.
Fortunately, this post will walk you through the various she shed cost considerations. It’s important to familiarize yourself with the costs involved to ensure you don’t blow the budget.
She shed costs can range from a few thousand to $30,000+. Your final price is determined by several factors.
So let’s take a look at what goes into the price of these charming retreats.
She Shed Cost Factors
Understanding cost factors is important to help you decide what type of she shed is right for you. Whether you’re looking for space to serve as your yoga studio, craft room, or simply a place to retreat and relax, knowing the expected costs ahead of time will ensure you get the she shed of your dreams while staying within your budget.
From understanding typical she shed materials and sizes to researching extra amenities like doors, windows, and decks, understanding she shed cost factors can help you plan accordingly for the she shed that will bring years of joy.
Below is a list of shed shed cost factors to consider:
Size of She Shed
She sheds come in a variety of styles and sizes, so whether you’re looking for a cozy one-room structure or an expansive multi-room abode, there is something for everyone.
Captain obvious here, but it should be noted that designs increase in cost when size increases–more square footage means more things that need to be built or purchased.
To give you an idea of the cost just for a shed structure, we recently purchased three sheds. Two we turned into our new tiny houses and the third will be used as the chicken coop. Here is a breakdown of each shed size and approximate cost:
- 12×36 = $17,000
- 12×20= $9,000
- 8×12 = $3,000
We purchased the sheds from our local shed dealers and had them cut out windows and doors to our specifications.
Keep in mind that these sheds were purchased in 2021/2022 when lumber prices were at an all time high. Hopefully the prices are lower now.
Existing or New
If you plan to convert an existing structure into a she shed, then your costs may be lower as you won’t need to incur the costs associated with building one from scratch. This assumes the current building is structurally sound to convert into a she shed.
If you want something brand new, then there will be more involved as you’ll need to factor in materials, labor and any additional customizations that you want.
Prefabricated vs. Custom. vs. DIY
How you have your she shed built will also play a role in cost. Typically the most cost effective is to go the DIY route. However, going this route assumes you have access to the tools required to build a shed plus knowledge of the building process.
Next up is a prefabricated shed. A prefabricated she shed is typically built at the manufactures place of business then transported to your home. Prefabricated sheds can range anywhere from $3000-$10,000 or more depending on size and materials used.
If you want to go custom and have someone else build it for you, then expect prices to start in the $5,000 range. I’ve heard of she sheds costing as much as $30,000-$50,000 – but hey, if it has everything you’ve ever dreamed of, why not?
Type of Material
Different materials have different advantages and drawbacks, so you want to make sure that you select the one that best suits your needs. Here’s a quick look at some of the most popular shed building materials and their benefits.
Wood
When it comes to traditional sheds, wood is often the go-to material. Wood is strong and durable, making it well-suited to outdoor use. It also has good insulation properties, which can help keep your shed cool in summer and warm in winter.
However, wood does require regular maintenance to keep it looking its best. Additionally, wood may not be suitable for areas with high levels of moisture or humidity.
Tip: to save money, you could repurpose pallets and use the wood as siding
Metal
Metal sheds are becoming increasingly popular thanks to their durability and low maintenance requirements. These won’t corrode or rot like wood can, making it perfect for areas with high levels of moisture or humidity.
They are easy to assemble and often come with pre-cut panels that make installation even easier. The downside is metal sheds can often be noisier (even with proper insulation) simply due the sound that comes from things coming in contact with metal.
For example, our tiny house roofs are made from metal. When it rains, you can hear the rain drop more than if the roof was made from asphalt shingles. It does not bother us; however I know some people that can not stand the extra noise!
Vinyl
Vinyl is another popular choice for shed construction because it’s lightweight yet durable. Like metal sheds, vinyl sheds are easy to install thanks to pre-cut panels and they won’t corrode or rot like wood can.
They also require minimal maintenance; just give them a wipe down every now and then. This makes them a great long-term option for your she shed needs.
Custom Finishes
Assuming you will be spending time in your she shed to work, create, etc… you will likely need things like insulation, electricity and a way to heat/cool the space. Other things to consider are the final finishes such as:
Paint or Wallpaper
Painting or wallpapering is one of the simplest and most affordable ways to add personality to your she shed. Paint is definitely the most affordable option, but wallpaper can also be surprisingly budget-friendly depending on what type and pattern you choose.
Peel and stick wallpaper is a lifesaver. You can even opt for faux brick or stone wallpaper if you want to give your shed a rustic look without breaking the bank.
Flooring
When it comes to flooring, there are lots of options that won’t break the bank. If you want something that feels more like home, try laying down some luxury vinyl plank or carpet squares. For an outdoor escape vibe, try some outdoor rugs for a softer feel underfoot.
Alternatively, if you’re going for an industrial look, consider painting concrete floors with a durable epoxy paint—it will give it a modern finish while protecting against wear and tear from regular use.
Furniture and Decorations
When outfitting your she shed interior with furniture and decorations, think about how often it will be used and what activities will take place in it when finalizing these details.
If you plan on spending plenty of time in space doing crafts or working on projects, comfortable seating is essential—look into thrift shop couches or chairs as well as second hand desks or tables.
To complete the look with decorations that reflect your personal style without breaking the bank, try shopping at antique stores or flea markets—you never know what hidden gems you might find!
She Shed Cost: Labor costs involved with building or purchasing a pre-made she shed
Labor costs make up a good majority of the total cost of a she shed. You have a few when it comes to the labor of building your she shed. Let’s explore those in more detail
Prefabricated She Sheds
The first option is to purchase a pre-made she shed from a business that specializes in them. This is likely the most expensive option since you will be paying for someone else to do all of the work.
On average, these types of sheds usually cost between $8,000-$30,000+ depending on size, materials used, and any additional features you want included in your design.
However, the benefit of a prefabricated shed is most of the hard work is done!
Hiring Out the Work Yourself
If you want something more custom than what prefab companies offer but don’t have time to build it yourself then hiring out the work yourself may be a good option for you.
This means being your own general contractor and finding people who specialize in different aspects of construction such as carpentry and electrical work.
Depending on how much customization you want this can get expensive quickly due to labor costs so make sure that you shop around before settling on any particular contractor.
The average cost of hiring out these types of jobs is between $30-$75+ per hour but this can vary greatly depending on location and expertise needed for each job.
Do It Yourself Labor
If you are confident in your ability to take on projects like this then doing it yourself could save you some money (and give you bragging rights).
Building a she shed by yourself obviously requires more time than having someone else do it but if done correctly can be just as effective as having someone else handle it plus it’s gratifying knowing that you did everything yourself!
You should factor in costs like tools or building materials when budgeting out this option; these costs can range depending on what type of structure and materials are used so make sure to plan ahead so there aren’t any unwelcome surprises.
In short, prefabricated she sheds are an easy way to add extra storage or living space but come with higher upfront costs than other options. If you prefer something more custom then hiring out the work or doing it yourself may be better options for you; both require careful planning and budgeting but with some research and patience can help create your dream she-shed.
She shed cost: Additional expenses to consider
Other items to consider when determining you she shed cost include what the shed will be placed on and the cost for applicable building permits
The Foundation
Before you get too deep into the process of building your she shed, it’s important to make sure you have a strong foundation. A good foundation is the key to making sure your she shed is strong and stable. Take the time to do it properly.
A gravel foundation is a common base for a she shed. You may also opt for a concrete slab but the cost of a concrete slab is often more than a gravel foundation.
Permit Fees
Another additional cost that comes along with building your she shed is the cost for a permit, if one is required. Depending on where you live, there may be specific rules about size or construction materials that must be adhered to in order for you to receive a permit.
In some cases, permits may be required if the structure will be over certain heights or square footage limits. Be sure and check with local zoning ordinances before proceeding with any construction plans.
Why should you consider a she shed
If you’re looking for a fun and cost-effective way to upgrade your outdoor living space, a she shed could be for you.
She sheds are an increasingly popular trend that provide the perfect peaceful getaway. The cost of she sheds can vary greatly, but they’re generally fairly inexpensive to build or purchase. This makes it a great option to add extra living space to your home with minimal expenditure.
Not only that, she sheds offer so many creative possibilities when it comes to design and use. Plus, she sheds provide quiet spaces away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, and can in many ways.
Benefits of having a she shed
A she shed is the perfect combination of functionality and luxury. Depending on the size and features you decide to include, she sheds can cost anywhere from a few hundred dollars to several thousands.
But whatever she shed design you end up with, it will be worth every penny. She sheds provide a space for peacefulness in the comfort of your own backyard. They can serve as an area for relaxation or provide a comfy new workspace. They are perfect for those who work remotely or need a place for crafting.
There are no wrong answers when it comes to she sheds, except that you should definitely consider getting one 😉
Shed building plans
Buying shed plans can save you time and energy. Instead of trying to figure out how to construct your perfect shed from scratch, you will already have step-by-step instructions that explain how each part should be built.
This will ensure that all the pieces are properly put together and that the end result looks just as beautiful as you envisioned it. Plus, building with a plan eliminates any guesswork or second-guessing which can cause delays in building your dream structure.
For our blue she shed, I purchased Ryan’s shed plans for design inspiration. Since then, I’ve come across Pin-Up Houses and love their designs! They are more up my alley of uniqueness and bold character. They also list the DIY building price which is incredibly helpful for budget purposes.
Here are some of my favorite she shed plans from The Pin-Up Houses:
Kits at Home Depot and Amazon
Nowadays, you can find she shed kits at Home Depot and on Amazon, making it easier than ever to create that special space of your own. Prices are generally reasonable and will often vary depending on the style, materials, and size of the she shed of your dreams.
Shop she shed kits:
She Shed Cost FAQ
Q. What is a she shed?
A. She Sheds are a popular trend for adding extra living space to your home in an affordable and creative way. They provide a peaceful getaway from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. They can be used as an office, craft space, yoga studio, reading nook, or whatever else you dream up. She sheds come in all shapes and sizes, so you can find the perfect one that fits your needs and budget.
Q. What are common building materials used for she sheds?
A. She sheds can be made from a variety of building materials including wood, metal, plastic, or even brick. Wood is often the most cost effective choice. It is relatively inexpensive but still provides a sturdy frame that you can customize. Other types of materials such as metal may need additional treatments to prevent rusting or weathering over time which could end up costing more in the long run if not taken into consideration during planning stages.
Q. What labor costs should I consider when building or buying a she shed?
A. Labor costs will vary depending on the complexity of your She Shed design. You’ll also need to consider how much work you’re willing to do yourself. If you decide to build your own She Shed, most of the work can be done by just one person with basic carpentry skills, saving money in labor costs.
Q. Are there any additional expenses to consider when pricing out she shed projects such as taxes and permits?
A. Yes, taxes and permits are important considerations that need to be taken into account when budgeting for She Shed projects. Depending on the size and location of your She Shed, you may need to obtain certain permits or file paperwork in order to ensure that it meets local regulations. Additionally, you will need to consider the cost of the foundation you are placing your shed on.
Q. Are there She Shed plans and kits available through Home Depot or Amazon?
A. Yes, She Shed plans and kits are available through many retailers including Home Depot and Amazon. These plans provide an easy way to build your own She Shed without having to create a design from scratch. This will save time and money in the process. Additionally, many of these kits come with detailed instructions and materials lists. It’s important to read through all the information before purchasing!
Q. What are some tips on how to save money while creating your own she shed?
A. One great way to save money while creating your own she shed is to buy second hand materials. And watch for sales on paint around major holidays at home improvement stores. Additionally, you can look online for plans that have step-by-step instructions and detailed materials lists to help save time and money.
Until next time,
Krista
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