Building a shed doesn’t have to drain your wallet. With smart planning and the right materials, you can create a sturdy, functional shed on a budget.

Choosing the right material impacts both your budget and the shed’s lifespan. The material you select for your shed determines how well it will withstand weather, wear, and time.

In this guide, we explore the 10 best cheapest materials to build a shed without compromising on quality or durability. Whether you’re a seasoned DIYer or a first-timer, this list will help you build smarter and save money.

What Is The Cheapest Material To Build A Shed With?

1. Pallet Wood – best recycled material for sheds

Pallet wood is one of the most affordable and accessible materials for building a shed. Often available for free or at a low cost from local warehouses, it’s an eco-friendly and budget-wise choice. Its rustic aesthetic is perfect for those who love a natural, upcycled look.

Sourcing pallet wood may require effort, but the payoff in savings is substantial. It’s best to use heat-treated pallets, marked with HT, to avoid chemical exposure. Sanding and sealing are recommended to prevent splinters and weathering.

This material is suitable for walls, floors, and even roofing with proper treatment. However, consistency in plank size can vary, which may impact uniformity. Still, it’s a favorite for DIYers working on a tight budget.

Pros:

• Nearly free
• Eco-friendly
• Rustic style
• Easy to source
• Lightweight
• Good for DIY
• Low waste

Cons:

• Size variation
• Needs sealing
• Time-intensive

2. OSB (Oriented Strand Board) – best engineered wood panel

OSB is a highly economical wood-based panel that’s widely used in construction. Made from wood chips and resin, it’s engineered for strength and durability. It costs significantly less than plywood but offers similar performance.

It’s ideal for shed flooring, walls, and roofing underlayment. While it’s not visually appealing on its own, it performs well when painted or sealed. OSB handles nails and screws well and resists warping better than raw lumber.

Its main drawback is poor water resistance, so it needs proper sealing. It’s a favorite for framing and structural elements due to its cost-effectiveness. OSB is perfect for builders looking to maximize performance on a budget.

Pros:

• Low cost
• Strong panel
• Easy to cut
• Resists warping
• Good for structure
• Versatile use
• Easily available

Cons:

• Not waterproof
• Rough surface
• Needs painting

3. T1-11 Plywood Siding – best budget siding option

T1-11 is a plywood panel with vertical grooves that provide a classic shed appearance. It’s more affordable than traditional siding and provides both structure and aesthetics. You can use it for walls and siding without needing extra layers.

It’s easy to install and can be painted or stained to match your landscape. T1-11 is made of wood veneers bonded together, giving it strength and durability. It’s perfect for quick projects and DIY sheds.

However, it does require regular maintenance to prevent moisture damage. When sealed properly, it offers excellent longevity. T1-11 strikes a solid balance between appearance, cost, and practicality.

Pros:

• Affordable
• Easy install
• Paintable
• Structural use
• Classic look
• Lightweight
• Customizable

Cons:

• Needs sealing
• Prone to rot
• Paint fades

4. Corrugated Metal Sheets – best low-cost roof and wall option

Corrugated metal sheets are an excellent budget-friendly choice for shed walls and roofs. They’re durable, lightweight, and easy to install. The rippled design adds strength and character to any shed.

Metal sheds withstand harsh weather, including snow and rain. They require minimal maintenance and last for years. Galvanized or aluminum versions offer rust resistance.

Noise during rain and heat transfer can be downsides. Still, they are popular for their industrial appeal and durability. Adding insulation can improve comfort and usability.

Pros:

• Rust-resistant
• Durable
• Easy install
• Lightweight
• Low upkeep
• Long lifespan
• Stylish finish

Cons:

• Noisy rain
• Hot in sun
• Sharp edges

5. PVC Panels – best plastic-based material

PVC panels are low-cost and easy to work with, especially for walls and roofs. They’re lightweight, weather-resistant, and simple to clean. This material doesn’t rot, warp, or attract pests.

PVC offers a modern appearance and is available in multiple colors. It can be used alongside wood or metal to reduce overall costs. These panels snap or screw into place with minimal tools.

While they aren’t very impact-resistant, they hold up well in mild climates. They may discolor over time if not UV-protected. Still, for basic sheds, they’re a great money-saving option.

Pros:

• Cheap option
• Pest-proof
• Water-resistant
• Lightweight
• Easy clean
• Paint-free
• Fast setup

Cons:

• Brittle under force
• UV fading
• Not structural

6. Reclaimed Lumber – best sustainable wood material

Reclaimed lumber comes from deconstructed buildings or discarded wood products. It’s eco-friendly and often cheaper than new lumber. This wood can have rich character and strong grain patterns.

Using reclaimed wood helps reduce landfill waste and gives your shed a unique look. It’s suitable for framing, walls, and even floors. Always check for nails or hazardous treatments before use.

You may need to mill or sand the wood to make it uniform. Despite the effort, the cost savings and sustainability benefits are huge. It’s a top pick for environmentally conscious builders.

Pros:

• Unique look
• Eco-friendly
• Strong grain
• Cost-saving
• Vintage appeal
• Solid hardwood
• Available locally

Cons:

• Prep needed
• Hidden nails
• Hard to match

7. Plastic Barrels & Sheets – best for upcycling

Plastic materials like barrels or recycled sheets can be creatively repurposed into shed walls and roofs. They’re extremely cheap, sometimes free, and waterproof. These materials are great for lightweight, makeshift sheds.

Cut barrels can form walls or be flattened for roof panels. Their curved shape offers strength and wind resistance. They also resist rust, decay, and insect damage.

This method suits experimental or temporary shed projects. They don’t look traditional but can be painted for aesthetics. A clever way to build with minimal expense.

Pros:

• Ultra cheap
• Waterproof
• Lightweight
• Rust-proof
• Upcycled use
• Weather-resistant
• Flexible material

Cons:

• Unusual look
• Hard to join
• Needs cutting

8. Tarpaulin and Poles – best temporary structure material

Using tarps and wood or metal poles is one of the most affordable ways to build a shed-like shelter. This combo creates a fast, weather-resistant structure for short-term use. It’s ideal for storing garden tools or firewood.

Tarps are waterproof and come in various thicknesses. Reinforced grommets help secure the structure. Pair them with simple framing to improve durability.

Wind can be a challenge, so anchoring is crucial. Though not long-lasting, this method is highly cost-effective. It’s great for temporary or seasonal sheds.

Pros:

• Very cheap
• Quick setup
• Waterproof
• Portable
• Lightweight
• Easy repair
• Custom sizes

Cons:

• Not durable
• Flaps in wind
• Poor insulation

9. MDF Panels – best for interior builds

Medium Density Fiberboard (MDF) is a very affordable sheet material. It’s smooth and easy to paint, making it great for interiors. However, it’s not suitable for wet environments without sealing.

MDF cuts cleanly and holds screws well. It’s perfect for internal partitions, shelves, or ceiling boards. The flat finish gives a clean, modern look when painted.

You must avoid moisture or it will swell and warp. It’s not ideal for outer shed walls or roofs. Still, for indoor structures, it’s extremely cost-effective.

Pros:

• Very cheap
• Smooth surface
• Paints well
• Cuts cleanly
• Uniform shape
• Holds screws
• Widely available

Cons:

• Water-sensitive
• Not structural
• Heavy panels

10. Bamboo – best low-cost natural option

Bamboo is a sustainable, lightweight building material. It’s strong, flexible, and grows rapidly, making it a renewable option. In certain regions, it’s extremely cheap or free.

You can use bamboo poles for framing, walls, and even roofing. It’s easy to work with and adds an exotic flair. Treating bamboo helps prevent insect damage and extends its life.

Bamboo requires tying or nailing techniques unfamiliar to some DIYers. It’s better for temporary or decorative sheds. Still, it’s a great low-budget choice.

Pros:

• Fast-growing
• Natural look
• Flexible strength
• Lightweight
• Sustainable
• Low cost
• Versatile use

Cons:

• Needs treatment
• Limited span
• Hard to source (some areas)

Cheapest Material To Build A Shed  FAQs

1. What is the absolute cheapest way to build a shed?
Using pallet wood or reclaimed lumber is often the cheapest method, especially when sourced locally or for free.

2. Are metal sheets cheaper than wood for shed building?
Yes, corrugated metal sheets can be cheaper than high-grade wood, especially when only wall or roof coverage is needed.

3. How long do cheap materials like OSB or pallets last?
With proper sealing, OSB can last 10–15 years, and pallet sheds can last up to 10 years depending on climate.

4. Can PVC panels be used for the entire shed?
Yes, but they require a supporting frame, as they are not structural by themselves.

5. Is T1-11 siding better than metal sheets?
T1-11 offers a wood look but needs more maintenance; metal lasts longer with less upkeep.

6. What should I avoid when building a cheap shed?
Avoid untreated softwoods, unsealed MDF for outdoor use, and poor ventilation in closed sheds.

7. Can I mix materials to reduce cost?
Absolutely! Mixing reclaimed wood for framing and metal for roofing is a smart and affordable approach.

Conclusion

Building a shed on a budget doesn’t mean compromising quality. With options like pallet wood, OSB, and PVC panels, you can create a durable structure at a fraction of the typical cost.

Each shed material has its unique strengths and challenges, so choose based on availability, climate, and use case. Smart planning and creative shed material sourcing can save hundreds of dollars.

Ready to start your affordable shed project? Pick your favorite material and turn your backyard vision into reality today!