How to Insulate a Storage Shed

The utilitarian viewpoint of storage sheds is quickly vanishing. More people are utilizing wood sheds as recreational spaces to enhance their everyday lives. We often get questions from our fanbase about how to insulate a shed properly. We’re here to provide answers. Here are our tips for insulating sheds to ensure your dream shed stands the test of time.

Seal Up Your Shed

Before adding shed insulation, eliminate as many air leaks as possible.

1. Caulk gaps around windows, doors, and joints
2. Use expanding spray foam in larger cracks or holes
3. Install weather stripping around doors

Choose the Right Wooden Shed Insulation

Different insulation types suit different needs and budgets:

Best Way to Insulate Shed Walls

1. Install insulation between wall studs
2. We recommend fiberglass batt insulation for the shed walls
3. The ideal R-value for fiberglass insulation is R-13 and R-23
4. Staple a vapor barrier (plastic sheeting) over the insulation to reduce moisture buildup and keep fiberglass fibers contained

Best Shed Roof Insulation

Proper airflow near the roof is critical to reduce excess moisture.

1. Add ventilation first. Add ridge vents or soffit vents to allow airflow into the rafter cavities
2. Add eave vents or leave a gap for airflow at the bottom of the rafters
3. If you must add insulation in the shed roof, nail foam board insulation to the ceiling rafter/joists, leaving a minimum 3 ½ gap between the roof deck and insulation
4. Adding roof felt under the shingles also adds an extra moisture barrier

We never suggest using fiberglass insulation between the rafters.

Best Insulation for a Shed Floor

If the shed is raised off the ground:

1. Install foam boards or fiberglass insulation under the shed floor between joists
2. Use rigid foam or spray foam for under-shed skirting to block wind

Finish the Shed Interior

1. Add plywood, OSB, or drywall to finish and protect
2. Paint or seal for extra durability and aesthetics

Alternative Ways to Control Climate Inside Your Shed

In a climate-controlled space, the exterior temperature will compete with the interior temperature, causing condensation within the garden shed. Proper ventilation is critical to moving the hot air between the insulation and the roof deck.

If you have already insulated your storage shed and are unsure if there is enough air circulation inside, buy a quality digital hygrometer to measure the humidity level. The ideal humidity level for a shed is 40% to 50%. Keeping the humidity level in this range will prevent mold and that old musty barn smell from developing. A dehumidifier will also work well to eliminate excess moisture from the air. Also, a vent should be added to allow fresh air inside.

How Much Shed Insulation Do You Need

To determine how much insulation you need to insulate your garden shed, use Lowe’s shed insulation calculator. This calculates approximately how much insulation you will need for the shed walls and ceiling. We did some of the homework for you based on shed size. Here’s how much insulation you need for some of our top-selling outdoor wood shed sizes.

• 10x8 shed: 80 sq. ft.
• 10x10 shed: 100 sq. ft.
• 10x12 shed: 120 sq. ft.
• 10x16 shed: 160 sq. ft.
• 12x12 shed: 144 sq. ft.
• 12x16 shed: 192 sq. ft.
• 12x20 shed: 240 sq. ft.
• 12x24 shed: 288 sq. ft.
• 16x20 shed: 320 sq. ft.

Shed Insulation Costs

The cost of insulating a shed is roughly $1.00 to $2.00 per square foot. To determine the approximate cost, multiply the square feet by $1.00. Using the 10x10 shed, for example, it will cost about $100 to insulate your outdoor shed. It's not bad for a warm haven to practice your craft.

Shed Insulation Tips Summary

1. Don’t block ventilation—especially in the roof
2. Airtight is not always a good thing – let your shed breathe
3. Use treated materials to resist pests and moisture
4. Check local building codes to see if you’re doing electrical work or planning to heat it

Here’s to you making your storage shed a cozy haven for all the things you love to do. Make it yours!