Comparing metal and plastic sheds, the former is typically less costly than the latter due to various practical, material, and manufacturing reasons. The main reasons behind it are:
1. Raw Material Cost
Steel, especially when it is galvanized, is almost always less expensive per unit area when compared to high-quality plastic items like HDPE or resin.
In order to make plastic sheds more durable, manufacturers have to use polymers that are not only resistant to UV, but also to weather and impact. Naturally, these additives raise the material cost.
2. Manufacturing Process
- Metal Sheds
They are made by metal stamping, bending, and rolling processes, which are very automated and efficient.
The factories running the processes can make very big lots at very low prices.
Their panels are not very thick, but at the same time, they are quite strong due to the ribbing and the structure.
- Plastic Sheds
They are produced using injection molding or blow molding, which involves: Molds that are costly, More complex fabrication steps, Higher energy demand.
Large panels (walls, roof) are both expensive and difficult to produce and transport.
3. Shipping & Packaging
Metal parts can be packed flat, thus the required volume for shipping and the logistics cost are significantly reduced.
Plastic shed panels are more voluminous and take up more space, thus increasing transportation costs.
4. Assembly Hardware & Structure
Metal sheds are simple in design and can be easily assembled using fasteners and thin panels.
Plastic sheds require thicker walls and stronger reinforcements to maintain stability, which leads to a higher price.
5. Durability Expectations
Plastic sheds advertise themselves as follows:
- No need for maintenance
- UV resistant
- Rust-proof
That's why they are made of better materials and have more sophisticated engineering, which increases the price.
Metal sheds have fewer features, so customers are willing to repaint or use an anti-rust spray when necessary.
6. Market Positioning
Usually, metal sheds are presented as inexpensive storage solutions.
Plastic sheds are aimed at a slightly upscale market that values:
- More attractive looks
- Less time-consuming
- Convenient assembly
The difference in market focus determines the pricing strategy.
In Summary
In most cases, the root cause of metal shed price being lower than plastic ones is the fact that making a metal shed out of steel is cheap, the process is simple, and shipping is easy. Although plastic sheds contain expensive materials, and complex molding processes are used, which raise overall production costs.