Lean-To Shed

Designed to attach to an existing wall or structure, maximising available space

Roof Type Lean-To

Default Pitch 15°

Typical Size 2.4m x 1.2m

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Overview

A lean-to shed is designed to attach directly to an existing wall or structure. Also known as a half-shed or wall-mounted shed, this space-saving design is perfect for narrow side passages and making use of otherwise dead space.

Key Features

The lean-to's defining feature is its dependency on an existing wall for structural support on one side. This allows for a narrower footprint while maintaining useful internal volume, and often benefits from the thermal mass of the host building.

History & Design

Lean-to structures date back centuries, originally used as workshops, potting sheds, and animal shelters attached to farmhouses. Modern lean-tos continue this tradition of efficient space utilisation.

When to Choose a Lean-To Shed

Choose a lean-to shed when you need:

To use narrow space alongside your house or garage
Storage that's easily accessible from indoors
To minimise visual impact by tucking against a building
Protection from weather on the attachment side
A simple, cost-effective design with fewer materials

Lean-to sheds are perfect for log stores, bike storage, or garden tool access right outside your back door. They make use of otherwise wasted space.

Pros and Cons

Advantages

Uses otherwise dead space
Simple, economical construction
Benefits from wall's thermal mass
Minimal visual impact
Easy access from house

Considerations

Requires suitable wall to attach to
Limited depth options
May require wall owner's permission
Can cause damp issues if poorly built
Access from one side only

Typical Uses

Primary Uses

Log store attached to house
Side-of-house tool storage
Bike storage against garage
Recycling bin enclosure

Also Suitable For

Outdoor coat/boot store
Garden equipment by back door
Narrow passageway storage

Sizing Guide

Use Case	Recommended Size	Floor Area
Small	1200mm x 900mm	1.08 m²
Standard	2400mm x 1200mm	2.88 m²

Custom sizes? Use our shed builder to generate plans for any dimensions within the permitted range.

Construction Notes

Foundation

The attachment wall carries much of the load. Ensure the base is level and the attachment point is on a structurally sound section of wall.

Framing

Use a continuous ledger board bolted to the wall as the attachment point. Flash properly above the ledger to prevent water ingress.

Roofing

The roof must slope away from the attachment wall. Use proper flashing where the roof meets the wall - this is the most critical weatherproofing detail.

Special Considerations

Check with your neighbour if attaching to a shared wall. Consider the impact on the host building's damp proofing and cavity wall integrity.

Example Builds

Standard Configuration

2400mm x 1200mm

A typical Lean-To Shed build suitable for most requirements.

Standard cladding
Single door
1 window

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Frequently Asked Questions

In most cases, garden sheds are permitted development and don't require planning permission. However, restrictions apply: the shed must be single storey with maximum eaves height of 2.5m, maximum overall height of 4m (for dual-pitched roofs) or 3m (for any other roof), and must not cover more than 50% of the curtilage. Sheds must not be forward of the principal elevation. Listed buildings and conservation areas have additional restrictions. Always check with your local planning authority if in doubt.

Options include concrete slabs, paving slabs, pressure-treated bearer and joist systems, or adjustable post supports. Concrete provides the most stable base for larger sheds, while bearer systems are quick to install and allow airflow beneath the floor. The key requirements are: level, stable, and dry with adequate drainage around the perimeter.

A well-built and maintained shed can last 15-25+ years. Key factors are: quality of original construction, adequacy of foundations, quality of timber treatment, regular maintenance (retreating cladding, checking for rot), and roof condition. Budget sheds with minimal maintenance may only last 5-10 years.

Ideally, treat all surfaces before assembly - this ensures hidden faces are protected. Pay special attention to cut ends, which are most vulnerable to moisture. After construction, apply treatment to all accessible exterior surfaces annually or as the product recommends.

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