10 shed upgrades that won’t cost you more than $100

If your shed’s more of a catch-all than a functional space, you’re not alone. But with under $100, you can knock out upgrades that make it more useful, organized, and easier on the eyes. Whether you use your shed for tools, storage, or weekend projects, a few smart fixes can go a long way.

These upgrades don’t take much time or money, but they’ll make your shed feel like it finally has its act together.

Add Pegboard for Wall Storage

A sheet of pegboard and a basic hook kit will run you around $40–60, and it can completely transform how you use your wall space. It keeps tools off the floor and within arm’s reach.

You’ll spend less time digging through bins and more time getting stuff done. It’s one of the most affordable upgrades with the biggest day-to-day payoff—especially if your shed doubles as a workspace.

Replace the Handle and Lock

If the door sticks, the handle’s rusted, or the lock barely works, it’s time. A new handle and lock combo can be found for under $50, and installation takes less than an hour.

Fixing the door keeps your stuff more secure and instantly makes the whole shed feel less neglected. It’s one of those little upgrades that makes a big difference without looking flashy.

Add Solar Lighting

Wiring electricity into your shed isn’t cheap, but solar lights are a solid workaround. You can pick up motion-activated or push-button solar lights for well under $100.

Lighting makes your shed usable at dusk and easier to navigate without a flashlight in your teeth. Stick-on models are easy to install and make a dark space way more functional.

Install Shelving

Basic metal or wood shelves give you vertical storage and free up floor space fast. Look for budget kits or DIY with 2x4s and brackets to stay under the $100 mark.

Sheds fill up quick, and when everything’s on the floor, it gets overwhelming. Shelving helps you use every inch and makes the space feel bigger, even if it’s not.

Hang a Tool Rack

You can grab a wall-mounted rack to hold shovels, rakes, and brooms for $30 or less. It keeps long-handled tools off the ground and out of the way.

It also saves your back from tripping hazards and helps your tools last longer since they’re not leaning in the corner or getting knocked around.

Seal the Cracks

For around $20, you can grab a tube of exterior caulk and weather stripping to seal gaps around the door and windows. It helps keep out bugs, dirt, and drafts.

This kind of upkeep goes a long way. A shed that feels cleaner and more weather-tight is easier to work in and protects whatever you’re storing inside.

Paint the Floor

If your shed floor is stained or starting to splinter, a gallon of paint or stain can clean it up quick. Outdoor floor paint or deck stain is usually under $50.

A fresh coat protects the wood and makes the space feel newer—even if it’s still full of tools and supplies. It also helps with moisture and makes sweeping out easier.

Add Hooks to the Ceiling

You can use ceiling hooks for bikes, extension cords, weed eaters—anything light enough to hang but bulky enough to be in the way. A pack of heavy-duty hooks costs less than $20.

Most folks forget about the ceiling in a shed, but it’s prime real estate. Using it for storage frees up space fast and keeps everything off the ground.

Upgrade the Ventilation

If your shed gets hot and muggy, adding a couple of small vents or a solar-powered fan can improve airflow. Basic gable vents are cheap, and installation is beginner-friendly.

Better airflow means less moisture buildup, less rust, and fewer issues with mildew or warped tools. For a small investment, it helps your shed—and everything in it—last longer.

Mount a Fold-Down Work Surface

If you do any kind of project work in your shed, mounting a small fold-down table to the wall gives you a place to work without eating up space. You can build one with scrap wood and cheap hinges.

It’s an easy weekend build, and once you have it, you’ll use it more than you think. When you’re done, fold it up and keep your shed uncluttered.

*This article was developed with AI-powered tools and has been carefully reviewed by our editors.