There are many benefits to having a shed — they provide extra storage, make a great place to work on projects, and they can even be turned into a “man cave” for those who want additional entertaining space.
But your shed is only as good as its flooring, right?
A nice smooth shed floor makes getting your lawn equipment in and out easier, gives you a comfortable spot to stand while working on your latest project, and looks great if you are entertaining the guys.
So, which shed flooring options are best in 2022?
There are plenty of options to choose from, and each has its own set of pros and cons.
In this article, we will look at the options available to you — from simple plywood to recycled rubber — and discuss what makes each option a solid choice. We will even go over how you can protect your newly installed shed flooring to keep it tip-top for years to come.
Considerations When Choosing Shed Flooring
Shed flooring options are vast — if you can imagine it, someone has probably installed it in their shed. The material you choose will likely come down to a few key factors: personal preference and budget. It is good to keep in mind, however, that cost is more than just your initial purchase price.
Here are things to consider before making your flooring choice:
- Durability: You need your flooring to be durable. Whether you plan to spend a substantial amount of time in your shed or you are going to be using it for storage, there is a high possibility of leaks, spills, and scratches. You will want your flooring to be resistant to damage from the activities you plan on doing in your shed. Plus, you need to make sure it is resistant to the weather conditions where you live.
- Climate: As mentioned above, the weather conditions where your shed is located are also important. You need a flooring option that will be able to live up to the climate in your area. For instance, if it is very humid where you live, you may require a different flooring option than someone who lives in an arid environment.
- Protective options: Depending on the subflooring in your shed, you may need a flooring option that offers protection. For instance, if you have a concrete subfloor in your shed, then epoxy may be a great option because it can act as a sealant.
- Installation: Is your flooring option difficult to install, or is it a piece of cake? This may not matter too much if you hire a contractor to do the bulk of the work. However, if you plan to DIY your shed floor, ease of installation may be an important deciding factor.
- Maintenance: Sheds can often get quite dirty or take a lot of abuse from items stored inside being dragged in and out. You will need a flooring option that is up to the task and easy to repair when it gets damaged. Some options offer stain resistance or easy clean-up when liquids are spilled on them.
- Comfort: For those that plan to use their sheds as additional living space or as a workshop, the comfort of the floor covering will be important. For instance, a woodworker using their shed to complete multi-hour projects will benefit from having flooring installed that is comfortable for standing for extended periods.
Shed Flooring Options (Rated)
1. Plywood
- Overall Rating: 10 / 10
- Best for: Outdoor sheds in snowy climates being used to store equipment and snow blowers
Plywood can give your shed a seamless floor that is smooth enough for objects to slide across it with ease. It can be painted to seal it as well as add to the aesthetic of the shed, and it is easy to sweep clean.
If pressure-treated plywood is used, then the flooring will be resistant to moisture or water damage.
2. Interlocking Tiles
- Best for Those looking for a budget-friendly option
- Overall Rating: 9 / 10
Interlocking tiles, like those often used in garages, can be made from several different materials such as polypropylene plastic, rubber, or PVC.
They are easy to install, and they can be customized to create your desired look. Tiles are readily available in many different colors and patterns. Some of our favorite interlocking tile brands are Racedeck and Swisstrax.
3. Horse Stall Mats
- Best for: Outdoor sheds with dirt floors
- Overall Rating: 9 / 10
Horse stall mats are a good option to put over various subfloors — especially dirt floors.
The rubber of the mats absorbs impacts, provides insulation, and is non-slip.
They are quite durable, and they do not require adhesive to install.
4. Linoleum
- Best for Outdoor sheds that are not being used for storage
- Overall Rating: 7 / 10
Linoleum flooring is long-wearing and versatile. It is a low-maintenance flooring option that is smooth and water-resistant.
A very budget-friendly option, Linoleum is easy to clean and is DIY-friendly.
Linoleum can be scratched, so it is a good option for sheds that won’t have large pieces of equipment being stored in it.
5. Vinyl
- Best for: Extreme climates
- Overall Rating: 9 / 10
Vinyl is another versatile option that is as durable as it is affordable.
Vinyl comes in various forms including tile, plank, and sheet.
It is a good flooring option for basements and sheds because it is resistant to stains, dents, and scratches.
Shed Floor Protection Options
Epoxy is a protective coating that will keep the floor safe from wear and tear as well as from water or other chemicals. Epoxy is available in various colors to match the aesthetics of your shed. The application process can be difficult and may require a professional.
Why it works: Epoxy is durable and attractive. It is mold and slip-resistant, and it makes a great sealant for concrete floors.
Concrete floors are better protected when they are sealed. Things on this list like epoxy and paint can act as a sealant, but there are other applications such as acrylic that can work well also.
Why it works: Meant for concrete flooring, sealants increase the floor’s durability and prevent them from cracking.
Paint can be used to protect the subflooring as well as change the appearance of the shed floor. There are various types of paint that work well for flooring including exterior paints and concrete paint.
Why it works: Paint is good for concrete and plywood floors. It seals and protects while adding to the shed’s appearance.
There are carpets suitable for outdoor environments made from fade-resistant fibers, both synthetic and natural. These carpets are woven to prevent mold or mildew because they don’t trap moisture. The pile is usually low or they are made with a flat weave. Outdoor carpet can be purchased in rolls or tiles.
Why it works: Carpet is a budget-friendly option that adds warmth and softness to the shed. It is recommended over a solid subflooring like plywood or concrete.
