Double Doors

• One of the most common door types used in shed construction is a pair of swinging doors. They are often made from the same material as the shed itself and are painted or finished to match the rest of the structure. A pair of swinging doors on a shed usually provides an opening width between four and six feet. This is one of the cheapest ways to provide sufficient access for large pieces of equipment while maintaining a secure, weatherproof opening.
  
  

Sliding Doors

• Sliding shed doors may consist of a single large panel or two smaller panels that meet in the middle of the opening. They are installed on a metal track that allows the doors to slide behind the walls on either side. Sliding doors can be made to any size and are relatively affordable and easy to operate. They also offer a distinctive look that many people associate with the traditional barn door. These doors may be made from vinyl, metal or wood, though wood is becoming less popular due to its shorter lifespan.
  
  

Overhead Doors

• One of the easiest ways to bring very large objects into and out of a shed is to use an overhead coiling door. These doors are made from steel or aluminum and can be manually or electronically operated. They are particularly useful for bringing riding mowers into and out of a shed, as there is no track to impede travel, which can be a problem on buildings with sliding doors.
  
  

Personnel Doors

• Personnel doors are single swinging doors that allow people to easily enter or exit the shed. They are similar to doors used in the home and are often made of metal or fiberglass. This type of opening is the easiest way to go in and pick up a small tool, without the need to operate a larger sliding or coiling door. Personnel doors are a great way to keep rain and moisture out and are highly secure when proper hardware is installed. A single personnel door may be the only point of access on a small garden shed or may be used in conjunction with overhead or double door units on a larger shed.
  
  

Considerations

• When choosing doors for your shed, there are a number of factors to consider. For many homeowners, the door should complement the overall appearance of the shed and surrounding area. Cost may also be a concern, but should be weighed carefully against the risk of theft or break-ins. Also consider whether an insulated door is required, as well as the difficulty of installing and maintaining the door. Finally, weigh upfront costs against the expected life of the door, as well as the cost of replacing the door over the life of the shed.