The need for durable outdoor protection for UK homes and gardens is growing. This is due to the UK experiencing increased rainfall, stronger winds and extreme seasonal shifts. A durable steel or metal garden shelter offers protection against wind, rain, frost and snow while keeping your garden and equipment safe.
Steel shelters are a reliable, long-term solution to this issue. At Steel Shelters Direct we offer galvanised steel field shelters and pitched shelters throughout the UK. Our range of metal storage shelters is suitable for homeowners, smallholders and anyone searching for a practical garden storage solution.
In this guide we will discuss the uses, sizes, installation and what to think about before buying a steel shelter.
What is a Steel Shelter?
A steel shelter is a steel frame structure with a sheeted roof and cladding. They are constructed from cold-rolled galvanised steel and are designed to provide protection against UK weather.
Also referred to as metal garden shelters or garden shelter metal, these structures are perfect for home and garden use, storing machinery, tools or outdoor equipment. They are available in open-fronted or partially enclosed configurations.
Field Shelters
These have an open-fronted configuration allowing for unrestricted access. They are constructed from a steel frame built from 1.5mm of cold-rolled galvanised steel. The roof and side sheets are typically made from 0.5mm of plastisol-coated steel. These metal frame garden shelters offer a strong, industrial-style frame instead of lightweight tubing. Making them a durable garden storage option.
Advantages Include:
- Sloped roof meaning rainwater runs off
- Simple, functional design
- Great ventilation, due to open front
- Easy to drive in machinery or access equipment
- Low profile making them suitable for more restricted spaces
These are delivered as a flat-pack kit on pallets. They need manual offloading, so you will need a forklift or a tractor. Multiple people may be needed to assemble the metal garden shelter. We can supply them with steel skids, enabling you to relocate the steel shelter without having to dismantle it.
The common uses for these shelters are:
- Livestock shelter
- Outdoor storage for tools and machinery
- Covered feed storage
- General outdoor equipment protection
- Trailer or quad bike cover
Homeowners may choose a metal garden shelter or steel storage shelter as they are an easy, cost effective option that is functional and can be positioned along boundary lines. Field shelters are a practical choice for rural and semi-rural properties looking to improve their storage.
Pitched Shelters
These steel shelters have a dual pitched roof with a central ridge. They have a wide gable end offering easy access. Pitched shelters are also constructed with a 1.5mm of cold galvanised steel frame and 0.5mm of plastisol-coated steel for the roof and side panels. These have a symmetrical roof profile and a taller internal apex compared to field shelters.
Advantages Include:
- Increased internal height at the centre
- Suits tall machinery and stacked materials
- More balanced weight distribution across the roof structure
- Effective rain and snow shedding from both sides
Our pitched shelters are delivered as a bolt-together kit. They need a solid base and adequate anchoring. Due to the larger roof span they may need more careful assembly. These steel or metal storage shelters are designed to be durable through all UK weather conditions, making them a long-lasting solution for your home or garden.
Typical Uses Include:
- Larger machinery or vehicle shelter
- Storing hay bales or stacked materials
- Covered workshop area
- General garden storage
Homeowners may choose pitched shelters due to their internal clearance which allows them to feel more spacious inside. They offer more flexibility for future expansion of use and provide a more traditional roofed appearance which makes them more visually appealing.
What Size and Style Should You Choose?
Our steel shelters come in a variety of sizes as well as the two styles, field and pitched. The right size and style for you is completely up to your preferences and needs from the shelter.
If you require height, opting for our pitched shelter would be more suitable. Whereas, if you are searching for something covered to store your animal feed our field shelter would be perfect for the job.
Before purchasing your steel shelter, we recommend that you:
- Measure the available space
- Allow clearance for access and airflow
- Consider height limitations (e.g. tall machinery)
- Planning for any future needs
If you need more information on which shelter is best for you, read our guide “Pitched vs Field: Find the Best Steel Shelter for You”
What Should You Look For in a Quality Steel Shelter?
When buying a steel or metal frame garden shelter, ensure it is high quality. We recommend you look for galvanised steel construction, frame thickness and structural integrity. A quality shelter will withstand UK weather while safely storing vehicles, equipment, feed or livestock.
At Steel Shelters Direct, we have 50 years of experience supplying quality metal storage shelters. We prioritize durable, practical structures suitable for home, garden and agricultural use.
Do You Need Planning Permission?
This depends on the size, height, location and the use of your steel shelter. Commonly, outdoor shelters for domestic storage or garden use fall under permitted development rights, but this is not guaranteed. Requirements can change if your garden shelter exceeds height limits or covers a large area near boundaries.
Due to regulations varying between local authorities, we recommend that you check with your local council before installation to ensure that you are complying with the rules and to avoid any delays.
For further detail on installation and planning permission read our guide on “What to Know Before Installing Your Steel Shelter”
Are Steel Shelters a Good Long-Term Investment?
Metal storage shelters are a great long-term investment. They protect your belongings from rain, frost, snow and moisture. This extends the lifespan of stored items like garden machinery, vehicles and feed, meaning you don’t have to repurchase them as soon.
Built from galvanised steel, these metal frame garden shelters are designed to stay reliable for years with minimal maintenance. They offer both protection and peace of mind.
For more information, read our article “Are Steel Shelters Worth the Investment?”
Is a Steel Shelter Right for You?
If you are looking to protect your outdoor equipment, a metal garden shelter is a perfect solution. They are durable, low maintenance and suitable for homes, gardens, smallholdings, rural and agricultural properties. Garden shelter metal structures provide long term reliability.
Protect your outdoor space the way it deserves, with a steel shelter designed to last. Explore our range of Field and Pitched shelters today or contact our team to find the perfect steel shelter for your property.
