Is it Cheaper to Buy or Build a Shed?
Looking to expand your storage space or create a backyard office? You’re not alone. Many Utah homeowners wrestle with the question:
Is it cheaper to build a shed yourself or buy one from a professional shed builder? We briefly discussed the pros and cons of each approach in our article here.
In laymens terms, the answer isn’t simple. Cost depends on materials, time, skill and your desired quality. Below, we break down the factors so you can make a confident decision and get the most value for your money.
How Much Does a DIY Shed Really Cost?
Building your own shed seems appealing because you save on labor. But don’t overlook the true costs:
Materials add up. A DIY shed requires lumber, roofing, siding, doors, windows, and hardware. The total cost varies with size and material quality .
Tools aren’t free. If you don’t already own construction tools—like saws, nail guns, and levels—you’ll need to buy or rent them.
Your time has value. Designing the shed, securing permits, and completing the build can take several weekends. Do you have the skills and patience for carpentry? A learning curve is part of the DIY equation.
When you factor in materials, equipment and time, the cost difference between building and buying often shrinks. On top of that, mistakes can add expensive repairs.
The True Cost of Buying a Shed
Purchasing a pre‑built shed means paying for materials, labor and the builder’s margin. While the price tag is higher up front, you gain several benefits:
Speed and convenience. With Spaciums free 3D design and onsite inspection your shed blueprint is assembled in about 1-3 business days. Installation typically follows within a few days after.
Professional quality. Experienced builders ensure structural integrity, weatherproofing and warranties. Spacium Design backs our sheds with a 5 & 10 year limited warranty depending on the build type you select.
Predictable pricing. According to HomeGuide’s 2025 shed cost guide, a prefab 10×10 shed with installation typically ranges from $1,000 to $3,000, whereas a custom‑built 10×10 model averages $2,500 to $15,000 . Your final price in Utah will vary based on size, materials and features, but these figures provide a useful benchmark for budgeting.
Financing options. Many companies offer rent‑to‑own plans, making it easier to manage costs .
Hidden Costs and Risks of DIY Sheds
Even seasoned DIYers encounter unforeseen expenses:
Permit fees and inspections add to your budget and can delay the project .
Wasted materials and mistakes lead to extra trips to the lumber yard .
Lower quality or structural issues may shorten the shed’s lifespan .
Quality, Customization and Longevity
DIY advantage: You have complete creative control over design and materials . If you value hands‑on work and have the skills, building can be rewarding.
Buying advantage: Professional builders offer numerous design options and tailor features like doors, windows and interior layouts . They also provide warranties and high‑quality craftsmanship .
At Spacium Design, our custom backyard sheds start at $59 per square foot, including a 3D design consultation, premium materials and on‑site construction . We design every shed to withstand Utah’s weather and build most projects in about a week . We also guide you through permitting; in many Utah cities, sheds under 200 sq ft without electrical or plumbing don’t require a permit .
Key Questions to Ask Yourself
Before deciding whether to build or buy, consider:
Budget: How much can you invest? Remember to include tools, permits and your time.
Time: Are you willing to sacrifice several weekends, or do you need the shed ready this month?
Skill: Do you have carpentry experience, or will you be learning as you go?
Customization: Do you need something fully unique, or would a tailored professional design suffice?
Peace of mind: Is warranty coverage and professional support important to you?
Final Thoughts: Which Option Is Cheaper?
Building your own shed can be cost‑effective if you already have tools, experience and plenty of spare time. However, hidden costs (tools, permits, mistakes) often reduce the savings . Purchasing a shed eliminates labor headaches and delivers a high‑quality structure quickly, but it comes with a higher upfront price .
For most homeowners, the cheapest solution is the one that balances cost, quality and convenience. If you value your time and want a durable, weather‑resistant structure built right the first time, partnering with a professional builder like Spacium Design usually makes sense.
Why Choose Spacium Design?
As Utah’s premier custom shed builder, Spacium Design offers:
Free 3D design consultation – Visualize your shed before construction .
Transparent pricing starting at $59/sq ft – Includes premium materials and on‑site building .
Fast turnaround – Most sheds are built in about a week .
Built for Utah – Weather‑resistant construction designed for the state’s freeze–thaw cycles .
Tailored to your lifestyle – Customize doors, windows, shelving, lofts and electrical access .
Local, owner‑built craftsmanship – No subcontractors, just direct accountability and five‑star customer service .
Love it or we’ll fix for free within 90 Days Guarantee
Ready to explore your options? Book your free 3D design consultation today and discover how a custom shed can transform your backyard.
