Kit vs pre-built vs custom
The build method is the biggest cost lever, far more than size:
- Resin or metal kit ($2,600–$4,400) — flat-packed, a weekend DIY assembly. Cheapest, but lighter-duty.
- Wood kit, installed ($2,500–$8,000) — a real wood building put together by a crew over 2–3 days.
- Pre-built, delivered ($7,700–$13,500) — built off-site and craned/rolled into place in a day. The convenience option.
- Custom stick-built ($21,100–$36,100) — framed on site to match your house; the route for a workshop, studio, or "she-shed."
Don't skip the foundation
A shed set on bare dirt traps moisture, rots its floor, and racks out of square within a few seasons — the foundation is cheap insurance. A gravel pad ($1.76–$3 per sq ft) over landscape fabric is the practical minimum and handles drainage. A concrete slab ($7–$12 per sq ft) is worth it for a heavy workshop, riding mower, or anything you'll roll in and out. Block piers ($352–$600) suit sloped or soft ground. Whatever the shed costs, budgeting the right base under it is what makes it last.
Permits, power, and the add-ons
Many jurisdictions exempt small sheds (commonly under ~100–200 sq ft or a height limit) from a permit, but almost all enforce setbacks from property lines — check before you place it, because moving a built shed is its own cost. Running power ($2,600–$4,400 for an outlet + light circuit) turns a shed into a workshop but needs a permit and usually a licensed electrician. Common extras: a ramp ($294–$500) for mowers, windows ($235–$400 each) for light, and interior shelving ($294–$500).
Frequently asked questions
How much does a storage shed cost in 2026?
Resin/plastic kit: $2,600-$4,400 installed. Metal kit: $2,900-$4,800. Wood kit: $6,000-$10,500 with foundation. Pre-built vinyl shed delivered: $7,700-$13,500. Custom 12x16 stick-built: $21,100-$36,100. Add electrical $2,600-$4,400 and concrete pad $5-$12/SF if needed.
Do I need a permit for a shed?
Many jurisdictions exempt sheds under 120-200 sq ft without electrical. Permit is typically required if any of: floor area over the exempt threshold (often 120, 144, or 200 sf), any electrical hookup, attached to the house, plumbing, or sited within setback. Always check your local building department.
What foundation do I need?
Resin/metal kits: gravel pad ($1.50-$3/SF) is fine. Wood kits + pre-built: gravel or concrete-block piers ($200-$600). Custom or large sheds (over 120 sf): concrete slab ($5-$12/SF). Skipping the pad is the #1 reason sheds fail — water wicks up and rots the floor.
Wood vs vinyl vs metal?
Wood = best looks + customization (paint/stain). Vinyl = lowest maintenance. Metal = cheapest + most secure but rusty in humid/coastal. Resin = lightest + cheapest but shorter life (10-15 yr).
Can I DIY?
Resin / metal / wood kits — yes, weekend project. Pre-built — comes assembled. Custom stick-built — pro carpentry work unless you're experienced.
How much does it cost to build a shed?
A resin or metal kit runs $2,600-$4,800 installed, a wood kit $6,000-$10,500, a pre-built delivered shed $7,700-$13,500, and a custom stick-built shed $21,100-$36,100. Add a foundation pad and any electrical separately.
Does a shed need a foundation?
Yes - a shed on bare dirt rots and shifts. A gravel pad ($1.76-$3 per sq ft) is the minimum; a concrete slab ($7-$12 per sq ft) is worth it for heavy equipment or a workshop you roll things into.
