7′ x 5′ Shed-Plus Classic Overlap Apex Shed

Shed Type, Roof Size

The classic apex design of this shed, along with the overlap cladding found around the exterior, really help to give it a timeless feel, but they provide a useful function as well. With our weather becoming ever more severe, and rainfall never far away, it’s important that the shed acts as a defence to anything kept inside. When rain hits the roof or walls it will simply bounce off or run harmlessly away.

The height of the roof at its ridge is a generous 2.04m, creating lots of storage space and being more than adequate for even the tallest person. The size of the apex itself is shown by the relatively low eaves height of 1.48m. We found the shed as a whole to feel spacious and accommodating, thanks to its width of 1.54m including the overhang, and depth of 2.11m including the overhang. We did have to bend down a little to get through the door, which has a height of 1.59m and a width of 0.66m.

Cladding, Frame and Floor

When we review sheds that feature overlap cladding, we always like to check that the cladding is thick enough to endure not only the weathering but also the bumps and knocks that a shed can expect to take. The cladding on this shed is 7mm thick, which although around average for this kind of shed still gave a durable feel as a whole. Once up, this shed appeared sturdy enough to take all that the weather could throw at it.

A standard frame forms the basis of the shed, with a frame size of 28mm x 28mm. When we walked on the floor it felt solid and stable under our feet, which is tribute to the 9mm thick solid sheet material that the flooring is made of. This makes it suitable for all but the heaviest pieces of machinery and also helps to prolong the life of the structure as a whole. We were pleased to see that the integral wooden floor bearers had been pressure treated, as this not only elevates the base of the shed above ground level,it helps to prevent rot occurring in the areas where contact is made with ground. This can often be the weak point of a garden building, so it’s good that Shed-Plus have addressed this.

Treatment Requirements And Warranty

When reviewing a shed we feel it’s important to judge any pre-treatment provided by the manufacturer, and any warranty offered, as a garden shed should be an investment that lasts and lasts. That’s why we were pleased with the ten year warranty against rot that is included from Shed-Plus.

This in itself is tribute to the effectiveness of the dip treatment given to the shed’s timbers. This means that the timbers of the shed are dipped into a strong preservative before being allowed to dry naturally, giving far greater support than preservative which has been brushed on. Although this treatment gives a good initial protection level, the terms of the guarantee do state that additional preservative treatments will need to be provided on an annual basis, so this extra cost is something that must be considered when buying the shed.

Doors and Windows

Whilst the door could have been a little taller, the height of the shed roof ensured that there was plenty of room to move around in once inside, and it’s then that the most striking feature of the shed comes into its own. The large double windows dominate one side, so that the interior is bathed in natural light, allowing you to easily find whatever you’ve stored, or even sit down and relax with a newspaper or book.

We were very pleased to note that the windows on this shed are made not of standard glass, but of shatter resistant polycarbonate. This is a material that whilst being clear like glass is much tougher and more resistant to things hitting it such as stones. It also means that in the unlikely event of the polycarbonate glazing being broken it won’t shatter into tiny pieces, this is an important consideration, especially if you have young children or pets.

Security and Privacy

One area where we thought the shed could have been improved is in the button catch provided as standard. This is enough to prevent children accessing the shed, and to keep the shed door closed even in windy conditions, but it may not be enough in itself to stop a concerted attempt to gain access. That’s why we would recommend adding a strong padlock to the door, and there is room to accommodate one.

The tough and shatter proof window enhances the security of this shed, as a large window is often the first point of entry that a shed thief will turn to. Once their initial attempt to break the window has failed, many thieves will move on and search out an easier target.

Customisation Options and Extras

We found that the shed has an attractive darkened effect common to dip treated wood, but it’s important to remember that this will fade over time. For that reason, to give a long lasting beauty to the timber we feel it’s advisable to paint or stain it. There are two shades of wood stain available as optional extras with this shed: dark brown and harvest gold. These are easy to brush on, and give the shed a uniform look as well as providing added protection from the sun’s UV rays which can otherwise damage or age wood.

Other available options include solar lighting to illuminate the exterior of the shed, and shed hooks which can be used as convenient places to hang your garden tools while you are working on the lawn or plants.