10×16 Sheds: All You Need to Know

How big is a 10×16 shed? How much does it cost? How can I use my 10×16 shed? All of these questions are ones that we have heard before, and we have the experience you need to answer these questions for you! Let’s take an in-depth look at 10×16 sheds.

How Large Is A 10×16 Shed?

A 10×16 shed offers 160 square feet of storage; we would consider this to be a small shed size. This sized shed is the perfect size for something like a small workshop. In addition to this standard use, it can be used in many ways, and we will discuss the different uses for this shed further on.

How Much Does a 10×16 Shed Cost?

In general, a basic 10×16 shed will cost anywhere from $2,000-$6,000. The materials used and the customization done will make the price vary. However, if you are looking to purchase a 10×16 shed from Goldstar Buildings, it will cost between $4,000-$6,000. However, the ultimate cost will vary and be dependent on how much you want to customize your shed. Sheds with electrical wiring, extra windows, and insulation will cost more. In some cases, a high-end shed with lots of customization options can cost $5-$10k. 

How Are 10×16 Sheds Built?

10×16 sheds are built and constructed by experienced carpenters. They can be constructed in various ways, but here are the basic steps involved in most 10×16 shed construction: 

• The foundation is prepared using concrete slabs, gravel pads, or wood skids.
• The four walls of the shed are built, and the wall studs are measured, cut, and attached to the top and bottom plates. Windows and door openings are installed as necessary. 
• The roof trusses or rafters are measured and constructed. They are installed on top of the walls and spaced evenly. The roof is generally built with metal paneling or asphalt shingles.
• Plywood or OSB is attached to the roof structure to give the roof covering a solid base. 
• Windows and doors are installed. 
• Siding materials like metal, wood, or vinyl are applied to the exterior walls of the shed. Insulation is sometimes added to improve temperature control. 
• Finishing touches are done. Painting or staining, shelving, and workbenches are other customizable items added. 

10×16 Sheds from Goldstar are built with the following features: 

• Treated metal or lumber on all exterior surfaces
• Treated plywood on the floor
• Treated plywood siding sprayed with wood sealer

And the list continues…

What Kind Of Foundation Do I Need For A 10×16 Shed?

Multiple types of foundations can be used for your 10×16 shed. Here are some that are suitable for a shed: 

• Concrete Slab- This is a popular choice for sheds. A concrete slab provides excellent support and durability. 
• Gravel Pad- A gravel pad is a cheaper option. The ground is leveled, and a layer of compacted gravel or crushed stone is placed on top. This is a good option for areas with stable soil conditions. 
• Pressure-treated Wood Skids- This foundation involves placing pressure-treated lumber beams on the ground. This is a good option for smaller sheds or sheds in areas with good soil conditions.

In most situations, a gravel pad is the most affordable foundation option and in most cases is the most effective option for a shed foundation. 

What Siding Options Are Available For 10×16 Sheds?

There are multiple options of siding available for a standard shed, including a 10×16 shed. The choice is up to you. Here are some common siding options:

Metal Siding For 10×16 Sheds

Metal is a popular choice of shed siding. It is durable and long-lasting, as well as resistant to rot and harsh weather conditions. It comes in a variety of colors and is low maintenance, though it may dent more easily than some other siding options. Here’s an article on metal storage sheds for more information.

Wood Siding for 10×16 Sheds

Wood siding is another classic choice for shed siding. It can be easily customized in paint color and staining, and some popular choices of wood siding are cedar and pine. It is important to note that wood siding will probably need maintenance, like sealing and painting. 

Vinyl Siding For 10×16 Sheds

Vinyl siding is a low-maintenance siding that comes in a variety of colors. It is usually pretty durable and rot-resistant, though it may not have the natural look that wood siding does. 

LP Smartside For 10×16 Sheds

This particular type of siding is made from engineered wood and is a layered product that combines natural wood with manufactured materials. 

At Goldstar Buildings offers sheds with your choice of siding: wood, metal, or LP Smartside.  If you are looking for a material that has a long warranty, check out our metal-sided buildings. All of our metal-sided buildings come with a 40-year warranty.

Pros And Cons Of 10×16 Shed Siding Options

Pros And Cons of LP Smart Siding

LP Smartside is a popular choice of siding, but let’s take a look at it a bit closer, and talk about the pros and cons. 

Pros 

• Durability- LP Smartside is engineered to be very durable and resistant to moisture and pests.
• Appearance- This type of siding has a natural wood look and can be painted in a wide variety of colors to match the aesthetic of your home. 
• Sustainability- LP Smartside is made from wood fibers sourced from sustainably managed forests. It is a more environmentally friendly option than wood. 

Cons

• Cost- LP Smartside may have a higher upfront cost than other siding materials like vinyl or wood-based siding. 
• Limited Width- This siding usually comes in narrower widths than other siding options. This could potentially affect the overall appearance. 
• Maintenance- Though it generally is more durable than regular wood siding, LP smart-side still needs regular maintenance. It needs proper paint and stain and needs to be inspected for wear and damage over time.  

Pros and Cons of  T1-11 4” (Wooden Siding)

T1-11 Siding is made from real wood and therefore has its own list of pros and cons. It comes in two forms, plywood or OSB (Oriented Strand Board). Let’s take a look at the advantages and disadvantages of T1-11. 

Pros 

• Versatility- This type of siding is available in many thicknesses and styles, making it a very flexible and versatile choice in getting the look you want for your shed. 
• Stability- T1-11 is made from durable plywood, meaning it can resist twisting and warping. 
• Natural Wooden Appearance- Because of its rustic and natural wood grain, T1-11 is a good choice for an aesthetic and natural look.

Cons

• Possible Pest Infestation- T1-11 can be susceptible to insects due to the grooves in the side that insects can burrow and hide in. A shed with T1-11 siding needs to be properly sealed to prevent this. 
• Possible Moisture Damage- Because this type of shed is made from plywood or OSB, prolonged exposure to moisture can cause the panels to swell, rot, or warp. 
• Limited Insulation- A shed with this type of siding will not do as well in extreme temperatures and may not be the best choice for siding if you need your shed to be temperature controlled throughout the year.

Pros And Cons Of Metal Siding

Metal siding for a shed is a popular choice of siding for sheds. The metal panels are commonly made of steel or aluminum. Steel panels are typically used for their durability and strength. They are often coated with a protective layer, such as galvalume coating, to enhance their resistance to corrosion. With that said, there are pros and cons to metal siding. 

Pros

• Strengths- Metal siding provide structural stability, making your shed sturdy and able to withstand elements. 
• Durability- Metal sidings are resistant to weather elements such as snow, rain, and wind, ensuring long-lasting protection for the shed’s contents. 
• Low maintenance – Metal panels require minimal maintenance. They reduce the need for frequent replacements or repairs. 
• Pest Resistance – They won’t easily get damaged by pests like rodents or termites, keeping your shed pest-free.
• Fire Resistance – They provide added fire resistance, reducing the risk of fire damaging your shed. 
• Design Options – Metal sidings come in a variety of colors and finishes, giving you the option to customize an aesthetic appeal.  

Cons

• Heat Retention- Metal can absorb and obtain heat. This may result in a warmer environment under the shed during warm weather. 
• Limited Insulation – Metal sidings have lower insulating properties than other materials, which may affect temperature regulation inside the shed. 
• Noise Transmission – Metal sidings can be noisy when hail or rain hits the roofing or siding. This can create potential disturbances during heavy rain. 
• Rust Potential – If not properly maintained, metal siding can be prone to rusting, compromising the longevity and appearance of your shed. 

Two Common Roofing Materials Available For 10×16 Sheds

There are two popular options when it comes to selecting the right roofing material for your shed; those options are metal roofing and shingle roofing. Let’s discuss each of these options’ pros and cons on a shed. 

Shingle Roofing

Pros:

• Easy Installation – Shingle roofs are very easy to install, which reduces labor costs and installation time. 
• Repairability – If a shingle is individually damaged, you can easily repair it without having to replace the entire roof. 
• Cost-Effective – Shingle roofs are generally less expensive compared to other roofing materials. 
• Variety – Shingle roofs come in a wide selection of colors, styles, and textures. Giving you the option to customize it to match the aesthetic of your environment. 

Cons:

• Maintenance – Shingle roofs may require maintenance periodically, including cleaning, repairs, and inspections. 
• Vulnerable to Weather – In extreme weather elements such as heavy storms, or high winds, shingles roofs can be more vulnerable to damage.  
• Environmental Impact – Shingles are not as environmentally friendly compared to some other roofing materials. They also contribute to landfill waste. 
• Lifespan: Shingle roofs have a shorter lifespan than some other roofing materials, typically lasting around 20-30 years.
• Heat Absorption: Shingle roofs can absorb heat, leading to higher cooling costs in hot weather.

Consider these factors, along with your budget, climate, and preferences, when deciding on a shingle roof. Regular maintenance and proper installation are important for maximizing the performance and lifespan of shingle roofs.

Metal Roofing

Pros:

• Durability: Metal roofs are durable and long-lasting. Withstand harsh weather conditions.
• Energy Efficiency: They reflect sunlight, reducing cooling costs in hot climates.
• Low Maintenance: Metal roofs require minimal maintenance and are resistant to rot, insects, and fire.
• Environmentally Friendly: Often made from recycled materials and are fully recyclable at the end of their use.
• Variety: Metal roofs come in various colors, styles, and finishes to suit different architectural designs.

Cons:

• Cost: Metal roofs can be more expensive compared to other roofing materials.
• Noise: During hailstorms or heavy rains, metal roofs can be noisy if not properly insulated.
• Expansion and Contraction: Metal expands and contracts with temperature changes, requiring proper installation to prevent issues.
• Denting: Hail or falling debris can cause dents on metal roofs, affecting their appearance.
• Installation Complexity: Installing a metal roof requires specialized skills and professional expertise.

It’s important to consider these factors and consult with professionals to determine if metal roofing is suitable for your specific needs.

Can A 10×16 Shed Be Used As A Garage?

Yes, a 10×16 shed can be used as a garage, depending on the size of the vehicles you intend to park inside. It provides space for smaller cars, motorcycles, and bicycles. Before deciding to turn your 10×16 shed into a garage, consider the height and width of the shed’s entrance to make sure it accommodates your vehicle comfortably. We also recommend that you upgrade the joist system to 12-in-center flooring. We also build garages that start at a larger size if you want to upgrade to something a bit different.

Additionally, check local regulations and obtain any necessary permits for using a shed as a garage in your area.

How Can I Use My 10×16 Shed?

There are numerous ways you can use a 10×16 shed according to your needs and preferences. Here are some ideas on how to use a 10×16 shed (Note: Not all sheds are built to 10×16 dimensions. These videos are to serve as guides to create the space you may desire):

Workshop

Convert your shed into a workshop where you can focus on your hobbies like crafting and woodworking. This space will allow you to have a dedicated area you have always dreamed of. Take a look at the video above to get some inspiration for your own workshop.

Storage Space

We all have those few things that we don’t quite know where to put. This is where a shed, of this size can be great to place those extra items. In fact, take a look at this article by Northwood to see how you can organize your garden shed.

Art Studio

Love being an artist but don’t have the space to really explore all of your mediums? Set up an art studio with storage for any kind of art supplies that you would like. Add in some extra windows and doors to get the extra lighting you need for painting, sculpting, or other creative pursuits.

Home Office

Let’s be honest; trying to work from home can be really difficult. But what if you could work from home without needing to be in your home? That is exactly what a shed-to-office conversion can afford you!

Personal Gym

All of us know we need to exercise, but finding a place that feels “safe” can be difficult. So why not take your shed and transform it into a compact gym space with exercise equipment, weights, and flooring? Go the extra mile and add in some speakers to make a great workout space.

Guest Quarters

No one wants to hear their guest snoring. Or worse yet, having your guests hear you snore. Take your shed and convert it into a cozy guest house with a comfortable bed, and seating area.

Gardening

Whether you like to grow flowers or you like to grow veggies and fruit, having a place to store your gardening tools is a must. Take a look at this creative way to set up interior storage for your 10×16 garden shed. These techniques are a great way to optimize every inch for storage!

Relaxation Retreat

Relaxation is a great way to use your shed. Our 10×16 sheds make for great pool houses or as a dedicated sewing sheds. Take a look at the video above to get an idea of how whimsical your space can be.

No matter what you decide to use your shed for, remember to consider electricity, insulation, and ventilation requirements based on the specific purpose you choose for your shed. We are sure that you will be able to design the best solution for your shed usage.

Goldstar Buildings | 10×16 Shed Builder In PA

If you are ready to declutter your garage or create more space in your attic, perhaps you need to upgrade your outdoor storage buildings. No matter what you require, Gold Star Buildings is here to assist you. We specialize in manufacturing and delivering backyard sheds, cabins, and garages to customers across western PA and eastern OH. Our primary focus is providing our customers with durable outdoor storage solutions that cater to their long-term needs. Let us help you find the perfect building to meet your requirements. We’ve written a number of other articles to help give you the best information, including an article on 10×12 sheds.

At Gold Star Buildings, we pride ourselves on constructing outdoor storage buildings, which are crafted using high-quality materials designed to withstand various weather conditions. Whether you prefer wood or metal exteriors, our structures are built to last, and we provide warranties to guarantee their quality. Choose from a wide range of pre-built outdoor storage buildings, or collaborate with our team to create a customized shed, garage, or cabin tailored to your unique requirements. With our expertise, we will help you find the ideal solution for your storage needs.