What is the Difference Between a Barn and a Shed

Do you have empty space out in your backyard and too many things in your house or garage? Then you have a perfect opportunity to put up a mini barn or shed. So, what is the difference between a barn and a shed? While similar in structure, there is a distinguishable difference between the two, even though they may technically be the same. This article will shed some light on both so you can choose which one suits you best.

What is the Difference Between a Barn and a Shed

Mini Barn vs Shed

What is the difference between a barren and a shed? Barns are where livestock sleep when you own a farm. However, a mini barn is a place where you can store toolboxes, grass mowers, leaf blowers, extra buckets of paint, gardening tools, and more. In farms, big tractors are often kept in mini barns. 

A shed does the same thing in terms of storage. The only difference is that it can also be a space for recreational activities such as woodworking or painting. There are even sheds that are designed to look like barns.

In essence, a mini barn is a shed, but not all sheds are mini barns. It’s just a matter of what you choose to call it. The more important thing is to determine what you want for this backyard project.

Factors to Consider for a Good Storage Compartment

1. Size

The size will always depend on what you choose to store and how much space you have. If you’ve got tons of tools, then you can build a structure with wide shelves. Heavy machines like weed whackers and leaf blowers also need space. And if you want a relaxing and calming space where you can hang out, there need to be tons of space to walk around—just enough to feel like the walls are closing in. 

Make a rough estimate of the size. Smaller sheds (often 8×12 feet) are perfect for simple storage. Sizes of up to 10×16 and 12×20 are for people who want adequate space for their hobbies, interests, and special equipment.

2. Material

The material you choose determines the lifespan of your shed or mini-barn. If you want it to last for years, you have to invest in the right materials. Metal sheds are the most cost-friendly, but they don’t make a sound structure. Plus, they are prone to rust within a year or two. You would get exactly what you paid for.

Vinyl sheds have a life expectancy of twenty-five to thirty years and are much stronger than metal. They can also withstand most weather conditions. But they are less secure, which means you can’t store anything high-value. 

Wooden sheds are sturdy and have excellent insulation. They are strong and stable, so you can leave almost anything inside without being worried. But since they’re wood, they will need regular maintenance. 

3. Style and Color

Another factor that shouldn’t be overlooked is the appearance of the shed. Make sure that whichever shed you use will match the house and backyard. It would be great if you can get the input of family members and professionals on the look. You might even have fun playing around with the aesthetic.  

Conclusion

To determine if you need a mini barn or a shed, the essential factors to keep in mind are function and purpose. If you’re not the type of person who wants a multipurpose space, then save yourself a couple of bucks and build a mini barn. But if you have extra space in your backyard and need somewhere you can store items and participate in some recreational activities; this would be the best time to buy a shed. 

Are you leaning toward getting a metal vs wood shed? Barnyard Utility Buildings can help you by building the finest wood storage sheds in Charlotte, NC. We have created storage buildings, utility buildings, and outdoor sheds for the Charlotte community for over seventeen years. Contact us now to get yours done as soon as possible!

Proudly serving customers across North and South Carolina including Huntersville, NC, Concord, NC, Rock Hill, SC, Chester, SC, and beyond.