Is It Cheaper to Have a Shed Painted or Get a New One?
If your old shed looks like it’s seen better days, the decision to repaint or replace it isn’t always straightforward. The answer may depend on the shed’s material, the extent of any needed repairs, and your budget. A wooden shed with rotting boards or structural issues may require significant prep work before painting, while a vinyl or plastic shed has its own set of challenges. Let’s jump into an evaluation of cost, value, labor, and other factors.
Assess the Condition of Your Shed
The first step in deciding whether to repaint or replace your shed is evaluating its current condition. For this section, we spoke with Tim Perryman of Perryman Painting & Remodeling to get an expert’s input.
“Take wooden sheds, for instance,” Tim shares. “They are prone to rot and warping, especially in humid climates. Here in Sacramento we don’t have that problem, but further north, boards warp all the time. If boards are severely damaged or the structure has become unstable, you may need to replace several sections before repainting. The roofing may even need repairs or replacement. This can significantly increase costs, because you’re paying for both materials and labor just to repaint your shed.”
He continues: “Plastic or vinyl sheds don’t suffer from rot but can crack, lose color, or have significant UV damage over time. While these materials are lower maintenance, they’re often less receptive to paint. These sheds are also fairly cheap, so you may just want to replace it. Honestly the most expensive part of this may be having someone remove and dump the old shed.”
The Costs and Challenges of Painting an Old Shed
Painting a shed can be a cost-effective way to improve its appearance and extend its lifespan—provided the structure is in good shape. Wooden sheds typically require extensive prep work, including sanding, priming, and repairing damaged areas, before paint can be applied. Depending on the extent of the prep work, painting may cost anywhere from $500 to $1,000 if you hire a professional. For a do-it-yourself approach, the cost of materials, such as primer, paint, and brushes, can range from $100 to $300.
Your ability to paint wood siding on a shed also depends on the wood’s condition. If rotting boards or structural damage is present, repair costs can add an additional $100 to $500, depending on the extent of the work. Painting a wooden shed can result in a polished look, but only if the necessary prep work is done to ensure the paint adheres properly and lasts.
For vinyl or plastic sheds, painting is far less common. These materials are not designed to hold paint well, even when primers are used. According to experts, specialty primers for plastic can improve adhesion, but the results are often short-lived, and the process may not be worth the effort. For these types of sheds, replacement often proves to be the better choice, especially if the structure is aging or damaged.
Costs of Replacing a Shed
Replacing your shed is more expensive upfront but may save time and money in the long run if your existing structure requires extensive repairs. A basic vinyl or plastic shed typically costs between $300 and $1,000, depending on size and design. Wooden sheds start at around $1,000 for standard models, with custom-built options reaching $3,000 or more. Metal sheds, which are known for durability, fall somewhere in the middle, usually ranging from $500 to $1,500.
While purchasing a new shed represents a higher initial investment, it eliminates the ongoing costs of repairs and maintenance associated with older sheds. Newer models also often come with features such as improved weather resistance or enhanced storage options, which may add value to your property.
Installation costs are another factor to consider. Prefabricated sheds are relatively easy to assemble, and many homeowners can handle the installation themselves. For those who prefer professional help, installation fees typically range from $200 to $600, depending on the complexity of the project. Custom sheds or those requiring a foundation may cost more to install, adding several hundred dollars to your budget.
Comparing Long-Term Value
The choice between painting and replacing comes down to your priorities. If your wooden shed only needs minor repairs and a fresh coat of paint, repainting is likely the more economical option. However, if repairs become extensive, with costs exceeding 50% of a new shed’s price, replacing the structure often makes more financial sense.
For vinyl and plastic sheds, replacement is usually the better long-term value. The difficulty and expense of painting these materials, combined with their lower upfront cost, make purchasing a new shed the more practical solution in most cases.
Additional Considerations
One important factor to weigh is the durability and lifespan of the shed after painting or replacing. A freshly painted wooden shed can look great and last for years with proper maintenance, but regular touch-ups and weatherproofing will be required. Conversely, replacing an aging shed with a newer model, particularly one made of durable vinyl or metal, offers a lower-maintenance option.
Environmental impact is another consideration. Repainting a shed reduces waste and extends the life of an existing structure, making it a more sustainable choice. If replacement is necessary, consider recycling salvageable materials or donating parts to minimize the environmental footprint.
Finally, think about how the shed contributes to the overall aesthetic of your property. A well-maintained shed can boost curb appeal, while a new shed may enhance functionality and design. If significant repairs or repainting are required to achieve a polished look, replacement might be the better investment.
Should Your Repaint or Replace Your Shed?
Whether it’s cheaper to paint or replace your shed depends on its material, condition, and the costs of repairs or maintenance. Wooden sheds with minimal damage can benefit from repainting, but extensive prep work and repairs may tip the scale toward replacement. Vinyl and plastic sheds, which are less paint-friendly, often make more sense to replace when they begin to show wear.
When weighing your options, consider the long-term value, durability, and aesthetics of each choice. With careful planning, you can make the decision that best fits your budget and your property’s needs.
