Shed Building Costs: Complete Guide

On February 16, 2025 By newsroom Topic: Home Services

1. Cost

Average Cost: $3,500
Range: $240–$100,000
Cost Per Square Foot:
Prefab: $10–$40
Custom: $30–$160

2. Shed Costs by Size

| Shed Size (ft) | Prefab Cost | Custom Build Cost | |---------------------|---------------------|--------------------------| | 4x6 | $240–$960 | $720–$3,800 | | 8x8 | $640–$2,600 | $1,900–$10,200 | | 10x10 | $1,000–$4,000 | $3,000–$16,000 | | 12x16 | $1,900–$7,700 | $5,800–$30,700 | | 20x24 | $4,800–$19,200 | $14,400–$76,800 |

3. Shed Costs by Type

| Type of Shed | Cost Range | |--------------------------------------|---------------------------| | Modern Shed | $5,000–$16,000 | | Storage Shed | $800–$2,300 | | Garage Shed | $7,000–$10,400 | | Garden/Greenhouse Combo | $600–$10,000 | | Farm Implement Shed | $3,000–$40,000 | | Commercial Shed | $25,000–$100,000 |

4. Shed Costs by Material

| Material | Cost Range | |-----------------------|---------------------------| | Wood | $1,000–$4,300 | | Prefab Metal | $500–$7,000 | | Plastic (Vinyl) | $750–$4,000 | | Concrete | $10,000–$28,000 | | Brick | $15,000–$30,000 |

5. Key Cost Factors

Prefab vs. Custom
Prefab: Lower cost ($350–$4,000), limited customization.
Custom: More expensive, highly tailored design ($60–$150/sq ft).
Size: Larger sheds require more materials and labor.
Materials: Durable materials (e.g., brick, concrete) cost more upfront.
Site Prep: Clearing and leveling land costs $250–$2,800.
Add-Ons: Skylights, insulation, plumbing, and electrical work add to the total.

6. Common Add-Ons

| Add-On | Cost Range | |------------------------|----------------------------| | Windows | $300–$1,500 | | Skylight | $500–$5,000 | | Roofing | $4.35–$11/sq ft | | Gutters | $4–$30/linear ft | | Solar Panels | $100–$3,000 (DIY kit) | | Landscaping | $4–$10/sq ft | | Walkway | $9/sq ft | | Patio | $10–$50/sq ft |

7. Labor Costs

Prefab Assembly: $60–$125/hour.
Custom Build: $50–$100/hour.
Total Labor Costs: $200–$6,000 (depending on complexity).

8. DIY vs. Hiring a Pro

DIY: Cheaper for prefab sheds; requires tools and moderate skills.
Hire a Pro: Necessary for custom builds, electrical, plumbing, or insulation work.

9. Money-Saving Tips

Opt for a smaller shed with a simple design.
Use cost-effective materials like wood or prefab metal.
Build during off-peak seasons for lower contractor rates.
Handle site prep (like land clearing) yourself if possible.

Building a shed is a practical investment for extra storage or a workspace, with plenty of options to suit every budget!