Metal or wooden shed? Key differences, Pros & Cons, and expert buying tips
- 1. Wooden shed – a classic in its natural form
- 2. Metal shed – modernity and durability
- 2.1. New at BHB – the MAFAL brand:
- 3. Is it possible to combine the advantages of wooden and metal structures?
- 4. How to choose the right option for your needs?
- 5. What do customers in the United Kingdom choose?
- 6. Summary
Choosing the perfect garden shed is not just a matter of aesthetics – it is primarily an investment in functionality, durability and comfort of use for years to come. With the growing popularity of functional gardens, tool sheds and home workshops, the decision between a wooden or metal structure is one of the most important ones. In this guide, we compare both types of sheds, analyse their advantages, potential disadvantages and applications, and show you which one will be best for you.
Wooden shed – a classic in its natural form
The timeless charm of wooden sheds, their natural finish and versatility make them a perfect fit for both modern gardens and more classic home spaces. For many users, wood is not just a material – it is emotion, warmth and a lifestyle.
Advantages of wooden shed:
- Natural aesthetics – wood blends in perfectly with the greenery of the garden, adding warmth and harmony. It can also be easily adapted to the style of the property – from rustic to minimalist.
- Customisable – wooden sheds can be easily repainted, windows and shelves can be added, ventilation can be installed or they can even be converted into a garden office.
- Good thermal insulation – wood naturally maintains a stable temperature, which keeps the interior of the shed comfortable even on cooler days.
- Traditional construction – for many people, wood is a material associated with cosiness, and wooden sheds are often referred to as ‘little houses with soul’.
Disadvantages of wooden shed:
- Requires regular maintenance – impregnation, painting and protection against pests are essential to maintain the aesthetics and durability of the wood.
- Sensitivity to moisture – without proper protection, wood can warp, rot or lose its structural properties. Check our article “Dry and safe: How to stop condensation in a Shed?”
BHB expert tip:
The wooden sheds made of profiled wood offered by BHB are factory-impregnated and ready for use immediately after assembly. This not only saves time but also guarantees longer durability without the need for immediate maintenance.
Metal shed – modernity and durability
Metal garden sheds are a solution that is increasingly chosen by owners of modern properties – especially in cities, but also in areas with more difficult weather conditions. They are valued for their reliability, durability and low maintenance. Thanks to the use of high-quality materials, contemporary models are not only practical, but also increasingly surprising in terms of aesthetics, in line with current architectural trends.
Advantages of a metal shed:
- High durability – metal sheds are resistant to corrosion, do not fade in the sun, and are not damaged by fungi, mould or pests. Ideal for long-term use in harsh conditions.
- Maintenance-free – they do not require impregnation, painting or special care. This is a great solution for people who value ‘install and forget’ solutions.
- Fire resistance – metal is not a flammable material, which is an important safety feature when storing tools, electrical equipment or fuel.
- Security – metal sheds are more difficult to break into by unauthorized persons, making them a safe place to store valuable items such as bicycles or power tools.
Disadvantages of metal garden sheds:
- Poorer thermal insulation – without additional insulation, the interior can become very hot in summer and cool down quickly in winter. This is an important consideration if the shed is to be used all year round.
- Less natural appearance – despite advances in design, some users still find metal structures less cosy than wooden ones.
New at BHB – the MAFAL brand:
In response to market demand, BHB has introduced the MAFAL brand – a line of high-quality metal sheds made of thick, 0.5 mm acrylic-coated sheet metal. The products are available in many colours from the RAL palette and in elegant wood-effect finishes (e.g. golden oak, Winchester, walnut), which combine technical precision with a classic look. In addition, we offer full customisation – from the layout to accessories such as PVC windows with mirrored glass.
Is it possible to combine the advantages of wooden and metal structures?
At BHB, we believe that the best garden shed is one that suits you – not the other way around. That is why, as one of the few manufacturers, we offer not only ready-made models, but also the possibility of creating hybrid structures that combine the natural charm of wood with the practical durability of metal.
Our offer is based on two strong pillars:
- ZULUNA – a premium line of wooden houses made of selected spruce wood, valued for their unique aesthetics, thermal comfort and cosy character. Ideal for those who appreciate traditional forms with a modern twist.
- MAFAL – a new BHB brand focused on metal structures such as sheds, tool sheds and carports. The products are made of 0.5 mm thick weather-resistant coated acrylic sheet, also available in a wood-effect finish.
Thanks to the experience of both brands, we can offer combined solutions:
- Wooden shed with a metal roof – classic form and cosy interior combined with modern roof protection that effectively protects against rain, snow and sun.
- Metal shed with wooden interior – industrial durability on the outside and warm, functional space on the inside, ideal as a workshop, for example.
- Metal structure with a wood-like finish – visually resembles wood, but does not require impregnation or maintenance. Thanks to the use of high-quality coatings (e.g. golden Winchester oak, walnut, mahogany), MAFAL houses fit perfectly into the garden aesthetic.
- Integrated woodsheds and storage compartments – MAFAL offers models that combine the functionality of a metal structure with practical elements that were previously reserved only for wood.
BHB expert opinion:
More and more often, customers do not want to choose between aesthetics and durability – they want both.That’s why we created MAFAL as a complement to our ZULUNA line. Today, we can design a shed that looks like wood but retains the durability of metal – or vice versa. Flexibility is our greatest asset.
—Joachim Bertsch, company owner.
How to choose the right option for your needs?
Choosing between a wooden and a metal shed does not have to be difficult – just ask yourself a few questions: how will you use it? where will you put it? do you care about aesthetics, insulation or durability?
Below, we have compiled typical usage scenarios with the best solutions – tailored to your lifestyle, intended use and weather conditions.
Practical scenarios:
For DIY enthusiasts/workshops:
A wooden shed with insulation and a large window. Natural light, good acoustics and warmth in winter – the perfect place for creative work.
For storing bikes and tools:
MAFAL metal shed or bike box with anti-theft system – secure and moisture-resistant.
For a modern urban garden:
A metal shed in anthracite from the MAFAL range – minimalist design, zero maintenance.
For a country/classic garden:
A wooden shed from the ZULUNA range with an additional woodshed – a natural look that blends in with its surroundings.
Comparative table: need vs. solution
| Need | Recommended type | Why |
| I keep my tools and my bike | Metal shed (MAFAL) | Durable, corrosion-resistant, difficult to penetrate |
| I want to create a small office in the garden | Wooden shed (ZULUNA) | Better insulation, aesthetics, adaptability |
| I have a modern garden | Metal shed (MAFAL) | Simple design, RAL colours, easy maintenance |
| I want a rustic-style cottage | Wooden shed (ZULUNA) | Warm, natural appearance, integration into the landscape |
Comparison table: weather conditions vs. material selection
| Weather | A better solution | Why |
| Rain and dampness | Metal shed (MAFAL) | Non-soaking, corrosion-resistant |
| Variable temperature | Wooden shed (ZULUNA) | Better insulation, less temperature fluctuations |
| Frost and snow | Metal and wooden shed | Both types perform well with the right installation and roof |
What do customers in the United Kingdom choose?
The UK is a country where gardens play a unique role – they are not only a place to relax, but often an extension of the home lifestyle. British customers attach great importance to the appearance of their gardens, but also to the functionality and durability of all small architectural elements, including tool sheds.
In the UK, wooden garden houses are still very popular, especially in the suburbs and in home gardens. They are mainly chosen by people who value a natural look, a rustic atmosphere and the possibility of easy customisation.
At the same time, metal sheds are growing in popularity, especially in cities such as London, Birmingham and Manchester, where modern buildings and limited space dominate. Here, compactness, moisture resistance and the safety of stored items are important. Anthracite structures with mirrored windows or a wood-effect finish fit perfectly into the aesthetics of modern British gardens.
BHB expert tip:
If you are planning to buy a shed, consider not only how it will look in a year’s time, but also how it will perform in 10 years’ time – in terms of the British climate, storage and the style of your garden. Our UK customers are increasingly combining style with convenience, which is why hybrid houses and maintenance-free sheds are gaining in popularity every year.
Summary
Whether you are looking for a classic wooden shed, a modern metal structure or a combination of both, it is worth focusing on quality, durability and customisation.
BHB, with its two brands – ZULUNA (wooden structures) and MAFAL (metal solutions) – offers a wide range of products that can be adapted to any garden and any need. This is an option for those who are looking for more than just a tool shed – a functional space that will last for years and become an integral part of the garden.
We invite you to familiarise yourself with our offer and design your ideal garden shed with us.
