You know that you need more space in your life, so you are thinking about getting a shed, but you want it to be good quality. Amish-built sheds offer you a great way to get a quality storage building at an affordable price. But with many sheds out there being called an “Amish Shed,” it can be pretty difficult to know what you are actually looking at.
What Are Amish-Built Sheds?
Amish Built sheds are just what they sound like, sheds built by the Amish. Some companies call their sheds “Amish built” just because they know people are looking for that kind of product. However, at Northwood Outdoor, our sheds actually are built by the Amish.
One of the reasons there is a lot of mystery surrounding Amish sheds is that there are not really many pictures of Amish shops in action. The Amish value privacy and humility and their faith tradition does not permit their pictures to be taken.
Are Amish Sheds Worth It?
Yes, we believe Amish sheds are worth the money. The Amish are accustomed to hard work and living off the land. The Amish do not have a short-term mindset and value building things that will last a long time. The Amish follow these values when building sheds. Most Amish-made sheds, including the ones we sell, are built to residential standards meaning that your shed is built with longevity in mind.
As our business grew, and we could no longer build all of our own buildings, working with Amish shops to product what we needed was the next logical step, because we know how much they value quality. We are thankful that our customers notice and appreciate this as well. Here is a testimonial of a shed that was turned into a sewing room.
To learn more about our business, please check out our About Us page.
How Long Do Amish-Built Sheds Last?
Amish Built sheds are designed to last for more than 20 years. With the proper care and attention, your shed can last easily on to the next generation. Of note, Metal and Vinyl sided sheds typically last longer than wooden sheds. However, with the advances in technology in the wood industry, wooden sheds are now able to last much longer than they have in years past.
What Materials Can Amish Sheds Be Built From?
Amish-built sheds can be built from wood, metal, and vinyl. Each one of these materials has its pros and cons. To help you determine what Amish-built shed materials are best for you, take a look at the pros and cons list below.
Please note before going further, that with Amish-made sheds, it is assumed that there is solid wooden framing underneath all the styles available. The Amish do not make cheap all metal, or all plastic sheds.
Wood
Pros Of Wooden-Sided Sheds:
Aesthetic Appeal: Wooden-sided sheds have a natural and rustic appearance that many people find visually appealing. They can enhance the overall look of your property and blend well with a garden or outdoor setting.
Durability: Well-constructed wooden sheds can be highly durable and long-lasting. Quality woods like cedar, redwood, or pressure-treated lumber are resistant to decay, insects, and weathering. With proper maintenance, wooden sheds can withstand various weather conditions for many years.
Customization Options: Wooden sheds offer a high degree of customization. They can be easily modified or expanded to fit specific needs, such as adding shelves, workbenches, or windows. You can also paint or stain the wood to match your preferred color scheme or style.
Insulation Properties: Wood is a natural insulator, which means wooden-sided sheds can provide better thermal insulation compared to sheds made of other materials like metal or plastic. This can be advantageous if you plan to use the shed for activities that require temperature control, such as a workshop or storage for temperature-sensitive items.
Eco-Friendly Choice: Wood is a renewable and biodegradable resource, making wooden-sided sheds an environmentally friendly option. By choosing sustainably sourced wood and opting for a natural finish, you can minimize your impact on the environment.
Cons of Wooden-Sided Sheds:
Maintenance Requirements*: Not all wooden sheds are created equal. Wooden siding is often associated with the necessity of more maintenance than other siding types.
*At Northwood Outdoor, our Amish builders use quality Duratemp siding which is exceptionally strong. Many of our customers report not needing to repaint this siding option for 15 years or more. As a result, our wooden sheds are actually are most popular sheds that we sell.
Vulnerability to Pests: While quality wood can be resistant to insects, there’s still a possibility of pests like termites or carpenter ants infesting wooden sheds. Regular inspections and preventive measures, such as treating the wood with insect repellents, are necessary to minimize the risk of pest damage.
Potential Decay and Rot*: Despite the durability of certain wood types, there is still a risk of decay and rot over time, particularly if the wood is not properly maintained. Exposure to moisture, humidity, and constant contact with the ground can accelerate the deterioration process, compromising the structural integrity of the shed.
*While no shed is 100% immune to rot and decay, the Duratemp siding that our Amish builders use is significantly more resistant to rot and decay than traditional wooden siding.
Metal
Pros Of Metal-Sided Sheds:
Durability: Metal-sided sheds are known for their exceptional durability and long lifespan. They are resistant to rot, pests, and weather elements, ensuring that your shed will withstand the test of time.
Low maintenance: Metal sheds require minimal maintenance compared to other materials. They do not need to be painted or stained regularly, saving you time and effort in upkeep.
Security: Metal sheds provide enhanced security for your belongings. The sturdy construction of metal siding is a deterrent to potential intruders and is far more rigid should a heavy branch fall onto your shed. All of this ultimately keeps your tools and equipment safe.
Fire resistance: Metal is non-combustible, making metal-sided sheds more fire-resistant than sheds made from other materials like wood. This can provide peace of mind, especially if you plan to store flammable items.
Amish craftsmanship: Amish-built sheds are renowned for their exceptional craftsmanship and attention to detail. The Amish community takes pride in their work, ensuring that your shed will be built with precision and quality.
Cons Of Metal-Sided Sheds
Heat retention: Metal absorbs and retains heat more than other materials, which means that metal-sided sheds can become hot during warm weather. Adequate ventilation and insulation may be necessary to regulate the temperature inside the shed.
Condensation: Metal sheds can be prone to condensation buildup, particularly in humid environments. This can lead to moisture-related issues, such as rust or damage to items stored inside. Proper insulation and ventilation can help mitigate this concern.
Limited customization: Compared to sheds made from other materials, metal sheds may offer fewer options for customization. While you can choose from different sizes and configurations, the design and aesthetics may be more limited.
Vinyl
Pros Of Vinyl-Sided Sheds
Low Maintenance: Vinyl siding is known for its durability and resistance to rot, peeling, and pests. It requires minimal maintenance, saving you time and effort. A vinyl-sided shed will stay looking good with minimal cleaning and occasional rinsing.
Moisture Resistance: Vinyl is waterproof, which makes it an excellent choice for a shed that will store gardening tools, equipment, and supplies. It helps protect your belongings from water damage, preventing rust and other issues.
Aesthetically Pleasing: Vinyl siding comes in various colors and textures, allowing you to choose a style that matches your preferences and complements your garden. It can enhance the overall visual appeal of your outdoor space and create a cohesive look.
Longevity: Vinyl is a durable material that can withstand the elements, such as sun exposure, temperature fluctuations, and high winds. It can last for many years without fading or deteriorating, ensuring your shed remains sturdy and intact.
Cons Of Vinyl-Sided Sheds
Limited Customization: While vinyl siding offers various color and texture options, it may not provide the same level of customization as other materials.
Cost: Vinyl siding tends to be more expensive upfront compared to some other shed materials, such as wood or metal. However, it is important to consider the long-term benefits and lower maintenance costs associated with vinyl, which can offset the initial investment.
Vulnerable to Extreme Heat: Vinyl siding can expand and contract with extreme temperature changes, potentially causing warping or other issues. If you live in an area with intense heat, you may need to take extra precautions to protect the siding and ensure it remains in good condition.
Environmental Impact: Vinyl is a synthetic material made from PVC, which may raise concerns about its environmental impact. Manufacturing and disposing of vinyl can release harmful chemicals into the environment. If sustainability is a priority for you, you may prefer alternative shed materials.
What Styles of Amish-Built Sheds Are Available?
Each Amish Shed builder will generally have several different shed designs and styles for you to choose from. At Northwood Industries, we have 7 styles of sheds available for you to choose from. In addition to Sheds, we also offer Cabins, Garages, and Gazebos.
What Is The Best Foundation For An Amish Shed?
When you are looking to have an Amish Built Shed, it is important to have your shed on the proper foundation, especially in the northern area where we have such a harsh freeze and thaw progression. However, there are several foundational options available for you to choose from. To figure out which shed foundation is best for your shed, check out our site preparation page. Here you can get a clear idea about which shed foundation option is the best.
Can I Buy An Amish Built Shed From A Big Box Store?
No. Big box stores do not typically carry custom-built Amish Built sheds. However, they may call the sheds that they have at their store “Amish Style” sheds to attract more unsuspecting consumers.
Can Amish Built Sheds Be Customized?
Yes. Amish-built sheds are fully customizable to meet the needs that you have. We can move your entryways and windows, as well as add doors, add windows, and any of the other features that we have to offer.
How Much Do Amish-Built Sheds Cost?
At Northwood Outdoor, our Amish-built sheds start at $3,195. From there, they go up in price depending on size and the materials used to construct them. We also run sales throughout the year, so be sure to see what other buildings may be available in your price range by checking out our available inventory.
What Can I Use My Amish-Built Shed For?
Your Amish built shed can be used for just about anything. Oftentimes our sheds are used for garden storage. However, some people have gone as far as making their shed into a hobby space. Check out the videos above of how some of our customers have made their dream space come to life in a shed.
So What Is An Amish Built Shed?
In a nutshell, an Amish-built shed is a shed built by an Amish builder. They come in many varieties and styles. If you are in the Wisconsin or Minnesota, we would love to work with you! Give us a call or request a quote, and we will get started on building your shed the way you want.