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You’ve got an old shipping container sitting around just taking up space. Why not turn that big metal box into the ultimate backyard garden shed? With some basic tools and DIY know-how, you can transform that eyesore into a super functional and stylish place to store all your gardening goodies. This project is easier than you think! We’ll walk you through all the steps to convert that old container into a custom garden oasis. You’ll learn crucial tips on lighting, insulation, storage solutions and more so your new shed keeps your tools organized and protected from the elements. Follow our guide and soon you’ll have the trendiest shed on the block – all without breaking the bank. Get ready to unleash your inner builder and upcycle that shipping container into the garden retreat of your dreams!

Why Use a Shipping Container for Your Garden Shed?

There are so many reasons why using a shipping container as your garden shed is an amazing idea. Shipping containers are durable, spacious, and customizable – everything you could want in a garden shed!

They’re Practically Indestructible

Shipping containers are built to withstand the harsh conditions of overseas transport, so they can easily handle anything your garden can throw at them. They won’t rot, dent, or deteriorate from weather exposure. Your tools and supplies will stay safe and dry for years to come.

So Much Storage Space

A standard shipping container offers over 1,000 cubic feet of storage space. That’s enough room for all your gardening tools, equipment, mulch, fertilizer, and more. You’ll have space left over for a potting bench, seed starting station, and anything else your green thumb desires.

Easily Customized

Shipping containers are like giant metal Legos that you can customize in endless ways. You can paint them, add windows or skylights, install shelving, create separate rooms – whatever you can imagine! Adding a container to your garden gives you a fun, flexible space that you can make your own.

Great for Any Garden Style

No matter what type of garden you have, a shipping container shed will fit right in. Their simple, industrial design complements both traditional cottage gardens and sleek modern landscapes. You can paint yours to match your home or garden color scheme or leave it in its original metallic finish.

Using a shipping container as your garden shed is a sustainable, budget-friendly choice that provides durable and customizable storage for all your gardening needs. Your container shed will become the perfect place to pursue your passion for many years to come!

Preparing the Shipping Container for Use as a Shed

Clean and Weatherproof

First things first—give your container a good clean and weatherproof it. Wash down the interior to remove any dirt or debris. Then seal up any holes or cracks in the walls and roof to keep the elements out. Apply a coat of rust-preventing primer followed by a layer or two of waterproof paint or sealant. This will help your shed last for years to come!

Add Lighting and Ventilation

Make sure your shed is bright and breezy. Install wire mesh vents, screened windows, and a fan to improve air circulation and prevent mustiness. Add lighting fixtures, wired to an outdoor electrical outlet, so you can see what you’re doing. Solar-powered or LED lights are a great eco-friendly option.

Create an Accessible Floor

Pour a concrete pad to give your shed a stable, level base. You’ll want an entrance at least as wide as the container doors to allow easy access. The concrete floor will make the interior easier to sweep and hose out. For a wood floor, use pressure-treated lumber and leave small gaps between the boards for drainage.

Add Shelving and Storage

Include shelving, cabinets, hooks and benches to keep everything neat and organized. Mount shelving to the walls and a workbench along one side. You can’t have too much storage space in a garden shed! Consider including compartments for tools, gardening equipment, outdoor furniture cushions, and all the other odds and ends you need to keep out of the weather.

With some TLC and customization, a shipping container shed can become the perfect home for all your gardening gear. Spending time preparing it well in the beginning will reward you with an ultra-useful space for years to come. Happy gardening and happy shedding!

Ideas for Customizing Your Container Shed

Add Skylights

Let the sunshine in! Installing a few skylights in the roof of your container shed is an easy way to brighten up the space. Skylights will make your shed feel more open and airy. They’re also perfect for giving your plants natural light. You can find skylight kits that are made specifically for shipping containers.

Include Shelving

Maximize your storage space by installing shelving on the walls of your container shed. Shelves are ideal for holding tools, gardening supplies, pots, and other equipment. You can use pre-made metal shelving or get creative and weld your own shelving using scrap metal. For lightweight items, wooden shelves also work great. Include a mix of shelf heights and depths to suit all your storage needs.

Paint the Interior

Give your container shed a pop of color by painting the interior walls. A fresh coat of paint will make the space feel more inviting and help reflect natural light. Choose a color you love that will motivate you to spend time working in your shed. Earthy tones like green and blue are popular for garden sheds. You can also stencil on some gardening-themed designs or murals for extra charm

Add a Worktable

A sturdy worktable is essential for any garden shed. Include a table where you can pot plants, organize tools, and get messy. An L-shaped table fitted into a corner of your shed will give you plenty of workspace without taking up too much floor area. Look for a table made of weather-resistant wood or metal that can stand up to the high-humidity environment in a garden shed.

With some creativity, you can turn a bare shipping container into the ultimate customized garden haven. These are just a few ideas to get you started. The possibilities for making your container shed functional and fabulous are endless! Happy customizing and happy gardening!

Stocking Your Container Shed With Gardening Materials and Supplies

Seeds and seedlings

No garden shed is complete without packets of seeds and trays of seedlings ready to plant! Stock up on your favorites like tomatoes, cucumbers, leafy greens, and herbs. Starting seeds indoors under grow lights will give you a head start on the growing season. You’ll have healthy seedlings ready to transplant as soon as the weather warms up.

Tools and equipment

Gather your tools of the trade—a sturdy trowel, gardening gloves, pruning shears, and a watering can are must-haves. Don’t forget extras like plant ties, row markers, and a wheelbarrow or garden cart to haul it all around. A small potting bench gives you space to work and a spot for your tools.

Fertilizer and compost

To keep your garden growing strong, stock up on fertilizer and compost or composted manure. Choose an organic fertilizer for your edible plants. Compost adds nutrients to your soil and helps plants establish healthy root systems.

Pots and planters

For container gardening, you’ll want a variety of pots, planters, and elevated garden beds. Choose sizes that suit your space and needs. Terra cotta, wood, and recycled plastic are excellent options. Don’t forget saucers to catch excess water drainage.

Garden décor

Add some garden decor to make your space extra cheerful and inviting. Things like garden stakes, wind chimes, bird feeders or birdhouses, garden sculptures, and string lights are perfect for a garden shed. You’ll love spending time in your garden retreat.

Keeping your garden shed well-stocked with supplies will make you ready to spring into action as soon as the weather warms up. You’ll have everything you need on hand for a successful gardening season. Happy planting!

FAQs: Common Questions About Turning a Shipping Container Into a Garden Shed

How much work is involved in converting a shipping container?

Converting a shipping container into a garden shed is actually quite straightforward! The basic steps are: cleaning it, adding doors/windows, insulation, flooring, electricity and any extras like shelving. While it does require some physical labor, many DIYers have found it a fun and rewarding project. The end result is a super sturdy shed that will last for years.

Do I need any special permits?

In most areas, converting a shipping container into a garden shed for personal use on your own property does not require any special permits. However, it’s a good idea to check with your local building authorities to make sure there are no restrictions in your city or county. They can advise you on any setback requirements or design guidelines to be aware of.

How much does it cost?

The cost to convert a shipping container into a garden shed can range from $500 to $5,000 or more, depending on the size of the container and how much you customize it. The container itself typically costs between $1,500 to $5,000. The additional costs include:

Doors/windows: $200-$500

Flooring (wood/concrete): $200-$500

Insulation: $200-$500

Electricity (basic wiring/lights): $200-$500

Shelving/storage: $100-$300

Paint (optional): $100-$300

The total cost will also depend on whether you do all the work yourself or hire contractors to help with parts of the project. With some sweat equity, you can create an incredible garden shed at a fraction of the cost of a traditional shed!

What size shipping container do I need?

For a garden shed, we would recommend using a 20 foot or 40 foot shipping container. A 20 foot container provides about 320 square feet of space, which is plenty for most garden sheds. If you have a lot of large equipment or want extra room, then a 40 foot container with about 650 square feet would be better. Either size container will give you a spacious, secure place to store all your tools and supplies.

Conclusion

You did it! After putting in the sweat, elbow grease, and creative vision, your shipping container garden shed is complete. Just imagine sipping your morning coffee surrounded by your new potting benches, shelves lined with seed packets, and your trusty tools hanging neatly along the wall. When friends come over, they’ll be blown away by your innovative upcycling project. The customized interior and one-of-a-kind décor reflect your personality. This shed is your sanctuary, providing space to pursue your passion for gardening. When life feels overwhelming, take a deep breath of earthy air in your oasis, roll up your sleeves, and get your hands dirty. Your container shed is the ultimate intersection of hard work meeting creativity. You should feel proud of building something beautiful and useful – now it’s time to make some memories. So grab those seeds and get planting!

Shipping containers so tough, they come with a 25-year warranty!

At Shipping Conex – Official Affiliate of Used Conex LLC you have the opportunity to get a FREE quote today and unlock the endless possibilities that shipping containers can bring to your storage space. By simply filling out a quick form on our website, you can take the first step towards transforming your cluttered storage area into a well-organized and efficient haven for your belongings.