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Best Barns Shedquarters Review: Is This the Ultimate Wood Workshop Kit?
Finding the right space for woodworking or a home studio is tough because pre-built DIY shed kits are often expensive, and contractors charge high fees for labor. The Best Barns Shedquarters series offers a smart middle ground for homeowners. This large, 12x20 DIY kit gives you the shell of a professional building without the professional price tag.
We looked closely at the specs, materials, and features of this series to see how it stacks up against the competition. This review breaks down exactly what you get so you can decide if this is the right weekend project for you.
Key Takeaways
- Three distinct models: You can choose between Standard, Sliding Door, and Walk-In designs to match your specific workflow.
- Solid construction: The kits feature SecureTruss framing and TimberPrestige Eurowood for long-term structural stability.
- Customizable layout: You get to decide exactly where the windows and doors go during the assembly process.
- DIY-friendly: Components arrive pre-cut and primed so you only need basic tools and a helper to get the job done.
- Purchase required items: Remember that shingles, paint, and flooring are usually sold separately unless you select specific upgrades.
What is the Best Barns Shedquarters?
The Shedquarters is a line of wood storage sheds manufactured by Best Barns specifically for DIY enthusiasts. You order the kit, and they ship the materials right to your driveway.
The main selling point here is the sheer size since each model offers a spacious 12-foot by 20-foot footprint. This gives you plenty of floor space for table saws, workbenches, or even garden tractors. The manufacturer uses premium materials like LP SmartSide siding and "Eurowood" framing, which means the wood is treated to resist rot and termites better than standard lumber.
A Look at the Three Models
Best Barns offers three variations of this shed to suit different needs. While the footprint stays the same, the door styles and wall heights change to fit your specific goals.
1. The Standard Model
The Standard Model is the baseline option that features a gable roof and 6'4" side walls. It uses a set of double barn doors for the main entry, which makes it an excellent choice for general storage. Since the barn doors are over 5 feet wide, you can drive a riding mower inside with ease.
We also love the flexibility this model offers. You can install the doors in the center of the gable wall or offset them to one side, allowing you to arrange your interior shelves however you like.
2. The Sliding Door Model
If you are building a serious workshop, the Sliding Door Model is likely your best bet. The side walls are much taller at 8'1", which gives you significantly more headroom. This vertical space allows you to store long lumber upright or install tall shelving units without feeling cramped.
The doors slide on a track instead of swinging out, which saves valuable space in front of the shed. The extra height makes the interior feel like a real room rather than a tight storage locker.
3. The Walk-In Door Model
This model focuses entirely on access and convenience. It includes the standard double barn doors on the end, but it also adds a regular walk-in door on the side.
This setup is perfect if you plan to use the shed as a home office or a studio. You won't have to open the large barn doors every time you need to grab a single tool because you can just use the side entry.
The 3 Shedquarters Models at a Glance
Standard |
Sliding |
Walk-In |
|
| Door Type | Dual Barn Doors | Sliding Barn Doors | Walk-In + Barn Doors |
| Wall Height | 6′4″ | 8′1″ | 6′4″ |
| Best Used For | General storage or flexible workspaces | Workshops requiring tall shelving | Home offices or high-traffic hobby rooms |
| Pros |
|
|
|
| Cons | Lower wall height limits vertical shelving options. | Lacks a separate walk-in door for quick entry. | Lower wall height limits vertical shelving options. |
Construction and Materials
The quality of the wood matters for a DIY kit, so it is good to see that Best Barns uses SecureTruss framing. This system helps the roof handle heavy snow loads and strong winds, which is vital if you live in an area with harsh weather.
The siding is LP SmartSide, an engineered wood product that comes primed and ready for paint. It resists fungal decay and stands up to the elements, but you will need to paint it shortly after assembly to keep the warranty valid. Since all the wood comes pre-cut, you won't need to measure and cut every single stud, which speeds up the building process significantly.
Customization: Make It Your Own
One of the best things about the Best Barns Shedquarters is the control it gives you. The kit provides the structure, but you finish the details to match your home.
Windows and Light
The base kits might not include windows depending on the specific package you buy. You can add 18x27 or 18x36 single-hung windows, and the best part is that you cut the openings yourself during assembly.
This means you can put a window right above your workbench exactly where you need the light.
The Foundation
You must build a foundation because the shed needs a level base. You can pour a concrete slab or build a wood floor, though Best Barns does offer a "FortressFloor" upgrade.
This includes pressure-treated runners and ¾ inch plywood, and we recommend this if you plan to store heavy machinery.
Roofing
The kit does not include shingles, so you will need to buy shingles, nails, and roof cement separately.
This actually allows you to match the shed roof to your house roof perfectly. If you prefer convenience, Best Barns offers a Roof Package add-on that gathers these supplies for you.
Installation Tips for Newbies
If you have never built a shed before, here are a few honest tips regarding the Shedquarters:
- Level the Ground: Do not build on a slope. You must spend time leveling the site before the kit arrives to ensure the doors hang correctly.
- Paint Before Assembly: It is often easier to paint the siding panels while they are laying flat on sawhorses rather than climbing a ladder later.
- Get a Helper: The wall panels are heavy and cumbersome. You cannot safely lift the trusses or walls alone, so ask a friend for help.
- Check Your Tools: You will need a hammer, drill, tape measure, and a level. A nail gun speeds things up, but you can build it with hand tools if necessary.
Final Thoughts
The Best Barns Shedquarters is an excellent value for the size. You get a massive 12x20 space for much less than the cost of hiring a builder, and the pre-cut parts make the project approachable for beginners. If you are willing to put in a weekend of work, you will end up with a high-quality workshop that serves you well for years.
Have any questions or would like to place an order? We'd love to help! Chat with our friendly customer service team by calling 1-844-945-3625, chatting in on our website or email us at customersupport@wildoaktrail.com. We look forward to hearing from you!
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Best Barns Shedquarters easy for beginners to build?
Yes, the kit is beginner-friendly because the wood is pre-cut and the instructions are clear. You just need basic tools and a partner to help lift the walls.
Does the Shedquarters kit come with a floor?
No, the standard kit does not include a floor. You must build a concrete slab or buy the optional FortressFloor wood flooring kit separately.
Can I insulate the walls of this shed?
Yes, you can insulate the shed easily. The studs are spaced to accept standard insulation batts, making it simple to add drywall for a finished room.
Do I need a permit for a 12x20 shed?
You need a permit for a shed this size. Check your local building codes and HOA rules before ordering to ensure a 240-square-foot structure is allowed.
What kind of paint should I use on the siding?
You should use high-quality exterior acrylic latex paint. The LP SmartSide siding comes primed, so it grabs the paint well for a durable finish.
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