Ready to buy a metal shed? Read this first.
Metal sheds are tough, low-maintenance, and affordable. Small oversights get expensive.
Common regrets: wrong size, missing permits, uneven base, surprise fees, rust.
This final checklist keeps you safe. It’s quick, clear, and practical.
You’ll confirm codes, size, materials, foundation, delivery, and true total cost.
Buy once, buy right, and enjoy a reliable metal shed storage building.
Verify Local Building Codes and Permit Requirements
Buying a shed in Canada? Rules vary by province and city. Make sure you get it right before buying.
Why It Matters
Skipping permits or ignoring local rules can cost you time, money, or even result in removal of your shed. Different provinces and municipalities have unique thresholds, setbacks, and documentation requirements.
Permit Requirements by Location
Ontario (e.g., Toronto, Guelph, Hamilton):
- In Toronto, you need a permit if your shed exceeds 10 m² (~108 sq ft) .
- Hamilton allows accessory structures of up to 15 m² (~161 sq ft), one storey, no plumbing without a permit .
- In Guelph, sheds over 10 m² (~107 sq ft) or any shed with plumbing require a permit; otherwise, up to 15 m² is often exempt .
Alberta (e.g., Calgary, Lethbridge):
- In Calgary, planning approval may be required if your shed is too tall, too big, or violates land-use rules (e.g., over 75 m²) .
- In Lethbridge, sheds under 10 m² (~100 sq ft) are viewed as moveable and typically don’t require permits. Setbacks include at least 0.6 m from property lines and 1.2 m from the main building; bigger sheds need full development and building permits plus inspections .
Manitoba (e.g., Winnipeg):
- Any accessory structure over 10 m² (~108 sq ft) needs both development and building permits. Electrical or plumbing work also require separate trade permits .
British Columbia (e.g., CVRD region):
- Sheds up to 10 m² (~107 sq ft) generally don’t need a permit but must still respect setbacks and non-hazard placement. Any plumbing triggers permit requirements .
Quick Checklist for You
| Location / Province | Permit Exempt Size | Exceptions / Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Ontario (Toronto) | ≤ 10 m² (108 sq ft) | Permit if >10 m² |
| Ontario (Hamilton) | ≤ 15 m² (161 sq ft), one storey, no plumbing | Permit needed if larger or with plumbing |
| Ontario (Guelph) | ≤ 15 m² (161 sq ft) or ≤10 m² without plumbing | Permit needed otherwise |
| Alberta (Lethbridge) | < 10 m² (100 sq ft) | Larger = permits + inspections |
| Alberta (Calgary) | Depends on zone, height, size | Permits may be required for large/tall sheds |
| Manitoba (Winnipeg) | ≤ 10 m² (108 sq ft) | Larger = development & building permits, plus utility permits |
| British Columbia (CVRD area) | ≤ 10 m² (107 sq ft) | No plumbing allowed; otherwise, permit required |
What You Should Do
- Check your municipality’s building permit rules. Confirm size thresholds and what triggers a permit.
- Ask about zoning and setbacks. You often must place the shed a set distance from property lines or structures.
- Clarify extra features. Adding plumbing, electricity, multiple floors? You’ll likely need additional permits.
- Find required documents. Many municipalities need site plans, elevations, and drawings even for small sheds.
- Schedule inspections (if needed). Know whether final or rough‑in inspections are required before or after installation.
Choose the Right Size for Your Needs
Selecting the right shed size is about more than floor space; it’s about usability, future growth, and fitting your backyard wisely.
Why Size Matters
Start with a full inventory of what you plan to store both now and later. You’ll need room for the items and clear floor space to walk comfortably inside. Many buyers underestimate what will fit. Always add buffer space for shelving or future additions.
Common Shed Size Categories
- Small (up to ~40 sq. ft.): Ideal for basic tools, small garden items, and compact spaces.
- Medium (40–100 sq. ft.): Great for ride-on tools (e.g., lawn mower), patio furniture, or a few bikes.
- Large (100+ sq. ft.): Perfect for workshops, ATVs, or even a hobby area.
Here are real-world size recommendations:
- 8×8 ft (64 sq. ft): Compact yet usable fits gardening gear or small tools, especially in smaller yards.
- 8×10 ft (~80 sq. ft): Excellent middle ground for multiple items easy to access and move around inside.
- 10×12 ft (120 sq. ft+): Offers ample room for large equipment, work benches, or creative setups.
Pro Size-Picking Tips
- Look beyond numbers: “Small,” “medium,” and “large” vary by manufacturer , standards shift.
- Consider future use: Want hobbies or seasonal gear in the future? Choose a slightly larger size now to avoid repurchasing.
- Measure carefully: Sketch your yard layout and include access clearance. Plan for at least 1 ft extra foundation space around the shed.
- Ensure door access: For equipment like riding mowers or kayaks, confirm door size and opening are big enough.
Quick Size Reference
| Use Case | Recommended Size |
|---|---|
| Basic tool & small gear storage | 6×8 or 8×8 (~36–64 sq. ft) |
| Riding mower, patio furniture, bikes | 8×10–10×10 (~80–100 sq. ft) |
| Workshop, ATV, multi-purpose space | 10×12–12×16 (120–192 sq. ft) |
Confirm the Quality of Materials and Coating
Your shed’s metal and coating determine its durability especially in Canada’s diverse climate zones, from humid coasts to cold winters.
Metal Gauge (Thickness): Stronger Means Lasts Longer
- Lower gauge = thicker steel. In forums, many experienced builders say 26‑ga is the thinnest they’d trust. Thin options like 29‑ga or 32‑ga dent and warp easily.
- In high-performance specs, some top-tier sheds now use 22‑ to 15‑gauge panels sometimes combining thicknesses (like 22/20 GA or 18/15 GA) for extra reinforcement in critical zones .
Rule of thumb: Aim for 26-gauge or thicker and if you’re in areas with heavy snow or strong winds, consider even thicker panels (22–18 GA) for long-term resilience.
Coating & Corrosion Protection: Choose Wisely
a) Galvanized Steel (Zinc Coating)
- Coats steel with zinc to block rust even if scratched, zinc provides sacrificial protection through galvanic action .
- Common and cost-effective, but corrosion can accelerate once the zinc layer wears away.
b) Galvalume® (Aluminum‑Zinc Alloy)
- Made up of ~55% aluminum and 45% zinc. Outperforms standard galvanized steel in corrosion resistance by up to nine times .
- Reflects heat better and offers smoother, more durable protection.
c) Galvalume Plus™
- Includes a clear acrylic topcoat for extra scratch and corrosion protection. Some Canadian manufacturers offer up to 50-year corrosion warranties using Galvalume Plus .
For a detailed breakdown of Galvalume vs. galvanized steel, including longevity, costs, and industry myths, check out this in-depth guide: Galvalume vs. Galvanized Steel: Which Metal Lasts Longer and Why It Matters.
d) Other Rust‑Resistant Options
- Stainless steel, aluminum, or powder-coated finishes add more protection but are usually pricier.
- In 2025, top sheds use combinations of high-grade coating and smart design (like watertight seams) to endure harsh conditions.
Review Site Preparation Requirements
Preparing your site well is crucial for a stable, long-lasting metal shed especially in Canada’s varied climates. Here’s what you need to know to get it right.
Why It Matters
Without proper site prep, your shed risks uneven settling, poor drainage, and foundational damage over time. That can mean costly fixes or even replacement. Setting the groundwork correctly now saves headaches later.
Key Preparation Steps
1. Clear and Level the Ground
Remove debris rocks, brush, stumps, and vegetation from the site. These prevent proper leveling and can lead to shifting later.
Once cleared, smooth and level the ground to create a stable, flat build area.
2. Grade for Drainage
Ensure water naturally flows away from the shed. A slight slope away from the structure (even just a few degrees) helps avoid pool formation and moisture issues.
3. Prepare the Foundation
Choosing the right type depends on shed use, soil type, and local weather:
- Concrete slab: Strong and permanent; ideal for workshops or heavy equipment.
- Gravel pad: Cost-effective, offers good drainage and stability. Include landscape fabric underneath for weed control.
Canadian suppliers also use timber skids for smaller sheds great in well-drained, less permanent setups.
For larger or heavier builds, especially in unstable soils, compacted soil or engineered foundations may be required. Consider consulting a local excavation or steel building specialist.
4. Assess Soil and Terrain
In uneven or sloped areas, excavation, grading, and soil compaction are vital. Soft or clay-heavy soils may require fill or engineered solutions to maintain foundation integrity.
Creating a stable “pad” is critical to avoid settling or shifting over time.
5. Plan Access and Utilities
The delivery truck must reach the installation site without hindrance. Plan for clearance space and avoid tight corners or low-hanging branches.
If your shed needs electrical or plumbing hookups, arrange for them before assembly.
Ready-to-Use Site-Prep Checklist
| Step | What to Do |
|---|---|
| Clear & Level | Remove debris, level ground |
| Grade Properly | Slope site to drain away from the shed |
| Choose Foundation | Options: concrete slab, gravel pad, or skids |
| Compact and Stabilize Soil | Important on uneven or soft ground |
| Ensure Access & Utilities | Clear delivery path and pre-plan hookups |
Assess Vendor Reputation and Warranty
Choosing the right vendor and understanding their warranty can make or break your metal shed purchase. Here’s a Canada-smart guide to help you navigate this crucial step with peace of mind and confidence.
1. Why Vendor Reputation Matters
Trustworthy vendors tend to:
- Stand by their product quality
- Provide clear communication on delivery and installation
- Honor warranties when issues arise
In contrast, buyers often cite shady tactics like misleading quotes, vague terms, or pushy sales tactics as major red flags in the industry.
2. What to Look For in Reviews & Ratings
- Use independent platforms like Trustpilot, Reddit, or regional forums to check real customer experiences. Reliable vendors often have verifiable customer feedback.
- Look for consistent praise around warranty claims, delivery timelines, and installation support.
- Watch for warning signs: many vendors highlight large numbers in bold (e.g., “$5,000 final cost”) only to reveal later that those are deposit-only or exclude taxes/fees.
3. Warranty Types to Confirm
Most metal shed warranties differ in what’s covered:
| Warranty Type | Coverage Focus | Key Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| Structural Warranty | Frame and panels | Often just 1 year ,verify scope and exclusions. |
| Corrosion (Rust‑Through) | Panel perforation due to rus | Longer term companies like Metal Pro offer up to 50-year rust perforation warranties. |
| Finish/Paint Warranty | Fading, chalking, peeling | Commonly 25–50 years but often pro-rated and limited to finish. |
4. Checklist: What to Ask or Confirm
- Structural warranty length and coverage
- Rust/corrosion policy duration and exact terms
- Paint/finish warranty details what triggers voiding, pro-ration, etc.
- What’s excluded? Read fine print carefully
- Ask for references or customer testimonials in Canada
- Clarity on pricing ,confirm whether quoted price includes tax, delivery, installation, permits, etc.
5. Why This Step Saves You Time and Money
A solid vendor reputation paired with clear, valuable warranties means:
- Fewer surprises after purchase
- Strong support if issues arise
- Better long-term value for your investment
Finalize Delivery and Installation Details
Getting your metal shed to your backyard is more than picking a date; it’s about planning access, assembly, and avoiding unexpected delays. Here’s how to get it right, especially in Canada.
Why Delivery & Installation Planning Matters
Without clear logistics, your shed can get stuck in transit, held in a narrow driveway, or sit incomplete at the curb. Careful planning ensures smooth setup and saves time and money.
Delivery & Assembly Tips for Canada
Delivery Clarity
- Delivery often included: Be sure to confirm zones and costs.
Prepare Access Routes
- Ensure the delivery vehicle has a clear path free of low-hanging branches, tight turns, or overhead obstacles.
- Confirm whether the shed is delivered as a kit or fully assembled; larger sheds may arrive fully built and require vehicle clearance accordingly.
Ensure Proper Ventilation and Security Features
Your shed shouldn’t just be strong, it needs fresh air and solid locks. Moisture can destroy gear. Intruders can steal it. Getting ventilation and security right protects both your belongings and your investment.
Why Ventilation Is Essential
Moisture is a shed’s enemy especially in Canada’s humid summers and freezing winters:
- Without airflow, condensation builds up, causing rust, mold, and damage to stored items.
- Ventilation keeps air moving through the shed, reducing dampness and preserving metal and tools.
Effective Ventilation Strategies
- Passive Roof/Ridge Vents: These let warm, moist air rise and escape naturally simple and powerful.
- Wall or Gable Vents: Often placed at opposite ends, they allow fresh air in and stale air out.
- Ventilation Holes or Louvers: Many kits include built-in vents that help regulate temperature and moisture.
- Mechanical Fans (Advanced Option): For workshop-type uses, wall-mounted exhaust fans actively pull out stale air and bring in fresh air.
Security Features You Want
- Lockable Doors: At a minimum, choose sheds with reinforced doors and quality locks. Many models include reinforced swing doors and keyed locks .
- Reinforced Construction Elements: Heavy-gauge framing, rigid doors, and textured finishes boost security and resilience.
- Prevent-pry Features: Hidden vents or screws help stop tampering. Level up if your area has higher theft risks.
Double‑Check Pricing and Hidden Fees
Before you finalize your metal shed purchase, you must understand the full cost, not just the sticker price. Hidden fees can easily inflate your budget, especially in Canada where consumer protection is strict but issues still arise.
Why This Step Matters
- In Canada, marketing practices that hide or mislead customers with unexpected fees known as drip pricing are illegal unless the charges are mandated by the government, such as sales tax. Know the warning signs: a low initial price that jumps once added fees appear.
- Many quotes may omit critical aspects like shipping, permit assistance, site prep, foundation, or installation. This often leads to hefty surprise charges later.
What to Look for When Confirming Pricing
- Base Price vs. All-In Price
- Ask vendors for a “total out-the-door” price that includes taxes, delivery, permitting, installation, and any site prep if they’re offering it.
- Be wary if specifics like delivery zones or foundation support fall in fine print.
- Itemized Quote
- Insist on a breakdown:
- Shed kit cost
- Delivery / shipping
- Foundation or anchoring
- Permit support/fees
- Installation labor or DIY expectations
- Insist on a breakdown:
- Ask About Common Extras
- Custom dimensions or design changes
- Engineering or permit drawings
- Terrain-specific access challenges (e.g. remote location)
- Overtime, winter surcharge, or remote-area fees (particularly relevant in parts of Canada)
- Lock in Pricing
- Ask vendors if the quoted price is based on current steel pricing or if it can change due to shifts in steel tariffs or market fluctuations.
Final Thought
Don’t let attractive base pricing mislead you. Confirm the true total cost up front. Only proceed when you have a clear, itemized quote that includes everything from delivery and permits to final setup.
Request a Final Quote and Get It in Writing
You’re nearly there. Buying a metal shed is a big decision: getting everything in writing ensures nothing gets lost in translation. A clear, written agreement locks in all the details and keeps both parties accountable.
Why a Written Agreement Is Essential
“The agreement is a binding commitment between you and the seller… Don’t just take their word that it’s included. Make sure it’s written in the agreement before you sign.”
Everything from vents to freight to foundation belongs in writing to avoid costly surprises later.
What Must Be in the Final Agreement
Ensure your contract includes:
- All Features Confirmed
- Shed type, size, finishes, and materials
- Skylights, vents (ridge, louvers), insulation, framed openings specify details like type, color, and accessories
Complete Cost Breakdown
- List which components are included: foundation, delivery, permitting, assembly, taxes, and fees
Responsibilities Clearly Defined
- Who handles which tasks: foundation design, site prep, erection, delivery, and inspections?
Pricing Certainty
- Is the quoted price for materials only or a full “erected price”? Confirm whether freight and installation are included
Signatures and Dates
- Both parties must sign and date the agreement. This is the legal confirmation that you’ve both agreed to the terms.
Sample Agreement Checklist
| Contract Item | What To Confirm |
|---|---|
| Shed specifications | Type, size, materials, colour, design features |
| Custom features included | Skylights, vents, insulation, framing, windows |
| Cost breakdown | Foundation, delivery, permits, materials, labor |
| Responsibilities designated | Who handles what: site prep, engineering, assembly |
| Pricing clarity | Are all services “erected”? Is freight or taxes included? |
| Legal formalities | Both parties’ signatures and the date confirmed |
Conclusion
You’ve now covered every step needed to choose the right metal shed from zoning to sizing, from materials to final delivery.
With this checklist, you’re not guessing you’re making smart, informed decisions that save time, money, and frustration.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
Metal Pro™ Buildings is trusted by thousands of Canadians for strong, long-lasting steel sheds and buildings designed to handle harsh winters, wet springs, and everything in between.
✔ Built with premium Galvalume Plus® steel
✔ Backed by 50-year rust-through warranty
✔ Made in Canada, delivered coast to coast
✔ Custom sizes, full insulation, and accessories available
Get Started Now , Get a Free, No-Obligation Quote
