Your Complete Guide to Buying a Backyard Shed in Ontario (Spring 2026)

Spring is here, and if you've been thinking about adding a shed to your backyard, now is the perfect time to start planning. Whether you need extra storage for tools and seasonal gear, a dedicated workshop space, or a stylish backyard feature that adds value to your property, a quality shed is one of the smartest investments an Ontario homeowner can make.

At SW Backyard, we build premium sheds right here in Springwater Township and deliver them across the Barrie, Orillia, Collingwood, and Greater Simcoe County area. This guide covers everything you need to know before you buy.

What Size Shed Do You Actually Need?

This is the first question everyone asks, and getting it right saves you money and headaches. Here's a practical breakdown based on how our customers actually use their sheds:

The 8x8 (from $3,699) is ideal for basic storage — lawn mower, snow blower, garden tools, and a few seasonal bins. It's our most compact option and fits comfortably in smaller urban backyards in Barrie and Orillia.

The 8x10 (from $4,399) is our most popular model for a reason. The extra two feet of depth makes a huge difference — you can fit a workbench along the back wall and still have room for equipment storage. If you're on the fence between two sizes, this is the sweet spot.

The 8x12 (from $5,299) works well for homeowners who want genuine workshop space or need to store larger items like ATVs, motorcycles, or boats during the off-season.

The 10x10 (from $5,599) is our largest standard model and the go-to for anyone who wants a true multi-purpose space — workshop, home gym, art studio, or man cave. The extra width opens up layout possibilities that narrower sheds can't match.

Materials and Build Quality: What to Look For

Not all sheds are created equal. The big box store kits you'll find online are typically thin-gauge metal or low-grade OSB that won't survive three Ontario winters. Here's what separates a quality build from a disposable one:

Look for solid wood construction with proper framing — 2x4 minimum for walls, 2x6 for floors if you're storing heavy equipment. Roof sheathing should be plywood, not OSB. Siding should be rated for exterior use and primed on all six sides before installation. Our sheds use knotty pine board and batten siding that looks beautiful and handles our freeze-thaw cycles without warping or splitting.

The floor base matters more than most people realize. A shed sitting directly on soil or gravel will rot within a few years. We offer a pressure-treated floor base option (from $499) that protects against moisture and insects — it's one of the best upgrades you can add.

Do You Need a Permit in Ontario?

This depends on your municipality, but in most Ontario townships, sheds under 108 square feet (10 sq metres) don't require a building permit. That means our 8x8, 8x10, and 8x12 models typically fall under the permit-free threshold. The 10x10 is right at the line — check with your local building department to confirm.

Regardless of permits, you'll want to respect your property's setback requirements. Most municipalities require accessory structures to be at least 1 metre from property lines. Your local zoning bylaw will have the specifics.

Delivery: What to Expect

We deliver fully assembled sheds directly to your property. Local delivery within the Barrie and Springwater area is free. Extended local delivery (Orillia, Wasaga Beach, Innisfil) is $199, and long-distance delivery across Ontario is $499. Your shed arrives ready to use — no assembly weekends required.

Customize Your Shed

Every SW Backyard shed can be personalized with add-ons. Our trellis-style window add-on ($399) brings natural light into the interior and looks great from the outside. The double door entry upgrade ($499) makes it easy to move larger items in and out — essential if you're storing riding mowers, bikes, or workshop equipment. And with multiple colour options available, you can match your shed to your home's exterior.

Ready to Get Started?

Browse our full range of sheds and outdoor buildings at swbackyard.ca, or contact us directly to discuss your project. We're happy to help you figure out the right size, options, and delivery logistics for your property. Spring is the busiest season for shed orders, so the earlier you get in touch, the sooner we can get your new backyard building delivered.