In this blog, we will explore the question ‘can you build a garden shed with interlocking concrete blocks?’
At PPC Concrete Products, we are here to provide solutions for your construction needs, from the person working their own part-time project, to commercial clients, and everyone in-between.
Are interlocking concrete blocks the only material you can use for a garden shed?
No, there are three other materials commonly used to construct a garden shed, which all have their own pros and cons:
The main contenders for garden shed construction are:
- Wood (Timber)
- Metal (Steel or Aluminium)
- Plastic (Resin/Vinyl/Polyethylene)
Here’s a comparison:
1. Wood (Timber) Sheds
Pros:
- Timber has the classic, natural look that blends well into most gardens. It is highly customisable with paint, stain, and various cladding styles (overlap,tongue & groove etc).
- It is the easiest to modify in terms of adding shelves, hooks, windows, or make internal divisions. At the same time, individual boards can be replaced if they have been damaged.
- Timber offers better natural insulation than metal or plastic, making it more comfortable for a workshop or if you plan to spend time inside.
- If sourced from reliable and conscious suppliers, it can be a very environmentally friendly option.
Cons:
- Timber requires somewhat regular treatment (such as painting or staining) every few years to prevent rot, insect infestation, and weather damage.
- If the wood is completely untreated, it can be susceptible to rot, warping, and pests.
- Durability can be an issue, timber can be easier to break into than metal or concrete sheds (though a well-built, solid timber shed with good locks can be quite secure).
- Quality timber sheds (especially pressure-treated or tongue & groove) can be more expensive than basic plastic or metal sheds.
Timber is Ideal for:
Those who prioritise aesthetics, customisation, and a more traditional garden look, and are willing to commit to ongoing maintenance.
2. Metal sheds
Pros:
- A metal shed is highly resistant to rot, pests, and fire. Galvanised steel or aluminium offers good longevity.
- In most cases, metal sheds generally requires very little upkeep beyond occasional cleaning and checking hinges. No painting or treating needed.
- A metal shed can be very secure once anchored down, making them good for storing valuable tools.
- Metal can often be one of the more affordable options, especially for smaller, basic sheds.
Cons:
- In terms of looks, metal can have an industrial, utilitarian look that doesn’t blend well with all garden styles. Limited colour options, and not easily painted.
- Ventilation is a must, as metal sheds are prone to condensation inside, especially in fluctuating temperatures, which can lead to dampness and mould for stored items if not properly ventilated.
- Metal sheds, if not insulated, have poor thermal insulation by themselves. They get very hot in summer and very cold in winter, making them uncomfortable for workshops.
- Metal can be difficult to modify (e.g., adding shelves requires drilling through metal, which can be tricky).
- Some metal sheds can be fiddly to assemble due to many small panels and screws.
Metal sheds are ideal for:
Budget-conscious users who need basic, secure storage and want minimal maintenance.
3. Plastic (Resin/Vinyl/Polyethylene) Sheds
Pros:
- Plastic is Immune to rot, rust, and pests. Never needs painting or treating, just an occasional wash.
- Probably the easiest to put together, they are often designed for quick, snap-together assembly.
- Due to its natural light weight, it is easy to move if you need to reposition it (though anchoring is still recommended for stability in strong winds).
- If constructed properly, they are generally good at keeping out rain and moisture.
- Modern plastics are often UV-resistant to prevent fading and cracking.
Cons:
- Can look less natural than wood, though designs are improving and some mimic wood grain.
- Plastic is generally less robust and secure than metal, wood, or concrete sheds, making them less ideal for very valuable items.
- Plastic is a struggle to customise, as drilling into the plastic can compromise its integrity or be challenging for shelving.
- Can feel less substantial than other materials and may be more susceptible to wind damage if not properly anchored. Depending on the quality of the plastic, it can be damaged /broken under enough pressure or force.
- The lease environmentally friendly option, made from fossil fuels and can be difficult to recycle at end-of-life.
Plastic sheds are ideal for:
Those who prioritise ease of assembly, zero maintenance, and lightweight, affordable storage.
Can interlocking concrete blocks be used for a garden shed? What makes it so good?
Yes. Considering a garden shed is a structure made for storage, it is more than appropriate to use interlocking concrete blocks to build one. The result is a solid and reliable shed that can stand the test of time.
Regardless, before attempting construction, you should have a solid blueprint first, and have it checked by a professional structural engineer. Below is a look at the main considerations when constructing a garden shed with interlocking concrete blocks:
1.Foundation:
Even with interlocking blocks, a level, solid, and well-drained base is crucial. For a garden shed, this usually means a concrete slab or a compacted hardcore and gravel base.
Some smaller sheds might get away with using specific plastic interlocking grid bases filled with gravel, but for heavy concrete blocks, a proper concrete footing or slab is highly recommended to prevent settling and ensure stability.
2. Stacking the blocks:
This is where the unique nature of interlocking concrete blocks comes into play. The blocks are simply stacked on top of each other, with the studs of the upper block fitting into the recesses of the lower block.
3. Door and window openings:
You’ll need to plan for these. Depending on the size of the blocks, you might need to cut them (which requires specialized tools and expertise for concrete) or design your shed dimensions to align with standard block sizes. Providers like PPC Concrete products provide a variety of sizes for interlocking concrete blocks, which can prevent the need for cutting.
Lintels (pre-cast concrete beams) will be required over door and window openings to support the blocks above.
4. Roof structure:
Once the walls are up, you’ll build a roof structure on top. This can be a traditional timber frame with a variety of roofing materials, or even a flat concrete roof if the blocks are designed to support it.
5. Finishing:
While the raw concrete look might be desired for some industrial-style sheds, you can also render, paint, or clad the exterior of the blocks for a more aesthetic finish.
Additional considerations for garden sheds made with ICB’s
Interlocking concrete blocks are a robust and durable material, they are also generally more expensive to construct with than plastic or metal sheds in some cases. Before you decide on constructing a garden shed with interlocking concrete blocks, ask yourself:
- What will be in the shed? Are they valuable goods? Common garden tools?
- Do you have the space available for a shed that can store your items?
- Is it worth the expenses?
Although it’s never a bad idea to construct with interlocking concrete blocks, it’s important to consider individual circumstances, and move within your means.
Interlocking concrete blocks for garden sheds
As an established supplier all over the UK, PPC Concrete Products is always happy to help, which is why we encourage you to get in touch with any questions you may have or have a look at our FAQ.
In this blog, we hope to have answered the question ‘Can you build a garden shed with interlocking concrete blocks?’ Whilst also providing extra information in regard to construction solutions that we offer.
Take a read of our case studies to truly understand how we have provided solutions for business in the past with the use of our interlocking concrete blocks, and ultimately, how we can help you today.
Read our blog page for more insights into our passion, construction.
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Oldham,
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Email: info@ppcconcreteproducts.co.uk
