Matt from Stow Hand Crafting Bike Sheds

Need some help?

Check out the FAQ's below for answers to common questions.

For anything else just email hello@stow.design and we'll get back to you ASAP.

You can also call us on: 01256 960 437

Note: If you have a question around the suitability of your space for a bike shed or which sized bike shed would work best, any photos or plans you can send us are incredibly useful.

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Frequently asked questions

What makes Stow Bike Sheds so secure?

Our Stow bike sheds are engineered with security at the forefront, providing reliable protection for your bikes and garden essentials. Drawing from premium craftsmanship, our sheds offer:

  • Integrated Security Features: Each shed includes a StrongBar, a high-strength steel bar built into the frame, designed to work with a bike lock or chain (not included as standard) to securely lock bikes, offering exceptional theft deterrence. The sheds feature stainless steel hinges with no external screws, preventing tampering by thieves. A long-throw bolt lock, made of hardened steel and supplied with extra security keys, is fitted internally, with keyholes finished with a protective plate for added durability. All models feature double doors, with heavy-duty galvanised steel drop bolts securing the right-hand door at the top and bottom, ensuring both doors lock firmly.

  • Premium Douglas Fir Construction: Built from high-quality Douglas fir, our sheds combine modern flair with exceptional durability, backed by a 10-year warranty for manufacturing faults. Douglas fir is renowned for its strength, with a compressive strength of approximately 7,230 psi and a modulus of elasticity of around 1.95 million psi, making it highly resistant to structural damage and ideal for secure, long-lasting sheds. Compared to pine (compressive strength ~5,960 psi, modulus of elasticity ~1.24 million psi), Douglas fir is stronger and less prone to bending or cracking. Larch (compressive strength ~6,480 psi, modulus of elasticity ~1.46 million psi) is durable but less dense, making it less resistant to impact. Cedar (compressive strength ~4,800 psi, modulus of elasticity ~1.1 million psi) is less robust than Douglas fir for structural security, making Douglas fir a superior choice for strength and durability in security-focused applications.

  • Weather-Resistant Finishes: Available with Osmo Oil and Woca Oil, these options enhance water resistance and protect against the elements, preventing wear that could compromise security. The sheds feature an EPDM (ethylene propylene diene monomer) rubber roof, which is superior to traditional felt. EPDM is highly durable, UV-resistant, and fully waterproof, with a lifespan of up to 50 years compared to felt’s 5-15 years. It resists cracking, tearing, and weathering, ensuring the shed remains secure and protected from water ingress that could weaken the structure.

  • Discreet and Sturdy Design: The compact, neighbour-friendly design blends seamlessly into front or back gardens, reducing visibility to potential intruders. The roof extends over the doors, preventing the use of crowbars or similar tools to pry open the shed. Timber cladding is firmly nailed in three rows and protected by the roof overhang, making it nearly impossible to remove via prying. Doors are reinforced with extra fixings nailed through both back and front for added strength. Wide-opening double doors allow easy access while maintaining a secure profile.

How many bikes can fit in a bike shed?

We offer Compact and Max sized bike sheds, designed to accommodate up to 3 bikes (Compact) and up to 5 bikes plus accessories (Max) and other large items.

The depth of our Compact model is: 1.01m and for the Max it's 1.26m.

To be certain that your bikes fit you can:

Step 1. Stack your bikes with the first one flat against a wall and subsequent one's flat against the previous bike. (Note that placing the bikes with the narrowest handlebars first and last, as well as alternating the way they are facing can save space.)

Step 2. Measure the distance in a straight line from from the wall to the outer end of the last bikes handlebars.

Step 3. Check this measurement (the total room you require) with our internal depths to see which model you need. If you require a different size, you can contact us about a bespoke order.

Below are some combinations of bikes that SHOULD fit comfortably, however all bikes are different so please check you own bikes if you are unsure.

Stow Bike Shed Compact
3 Road
2 Road + 1 Child
2 Road + 1 E-Bike
1 Road + 1 E-Bike + 1 Child
1 Road + 1 Folding + 1 Child
2 Road + 1 Mountain
1 Road + 1 Mountain + 1 Child
2 Mountain + 1 Child
2 Mountain
3 Mountain
1 Mountain + 1 E-Bike + 1 Child
1 Mountain + 1 Folding + 1 Child
2 E-Bike + 1 Child
2 Folding + 1 Child
3 Child
2 Child + 1 Road
2 Child + 1 Mountain
2 Child + 1 E-Bike
2 Child + 1 Folding
1 Child + 1 Road + 1 Mountain
1 Child + 1 Road + 1 E-Bike
1 Child + 1 Road + 1 Folding

Stow Bike Shed Max
5 Road
4 Road + 1 Child
3 Road + 1 E-Bike + 1 Child
2 Road + 2 E-Bike + 1 Child
3 Road + 1 Folding + 1 Child
3 Road + 1 Mountain + 1 Child
2 Road + 1 Mountain + 1 E-Bike + 1 Child
4 Road + 1 E-Bike
4 Road + 1 Mountain
4 Road + 1 Folding
3 Road + 2 E-Bike
3 Road + 2 Mountain
3 Road + 2 Folding
5 Child
4 Child + 1 Road
4 Child + 1 Mountain
4 Child + 1 E-Bike
4 Child + 1 Folding
3 Child + 1 Road + 1 E-Bike
3 Child + 1 Road + 1 Mountain
3 Child + 1 Road + 1 Folding

View the internal dimensions for more measurements.

Are your bike sheds available flat-pack for self-assembly?

Yes, we deliver the majority of our bike sheds this way as they have been designed to be very easy to put together (they come in pre-built sections). You'll receive your bike shed with an easy to use instruction manual to get you set up in no time. The only thing you'll need is an extra pair of hands for a few bits (for security reasons the panels are quite heavy) and an electric screwdriver (or impact driver). Any problems? Just give us a shout at hello@stow.design.

Where do you deliver & install?

We can deliver & install all across England and Wales.

Do you offer a warranty?

We offer a 10-year warranty covering faults relating to manufacture as standard.

Will the appearance of my product change over time?

For our untreated bike sheds, the wood will naturally weather to a silver-grey color over time unless you apply a treatment yourself. For products treated with Woca or Osmo wood stain, the appearance will last longer, but we suggest reapplying annually to maintain a like-new look.

How can I place an order?

For Bike Sheds:

  1. Measure up your space.
  2. Using our configurator work out which of our sizes fits and works best for you. 
  3. Choose options for your preferred finish.
  4. Make your purchase online. 
  5. We’ll confirm the order and send you an estimated delivery or installation date.

The average lead time is approximately 3-4 weeks for delivery and 4-5 weeks for installation. 

For bespoke orders contact us.

How much clearance is required for a bike shed?

Carefully check the dimensions of the bike shed against the dimensions of your space before ordering. If there are obstacles or you are unsure, email us with a few pictures of the location and some measurements.

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Other things to think about:

  • If any walls around the space for the Stow look uneven, you should ensure that there are tolerances of at least 50mm. 
  • Ensure there's at least 900mm of space at the front to open the doors fully. 
  • If there are branches or protruding foliage behind or above the site, clear these prior to installation.

Can you install my bike shed?

Yes. We can offer installation across England and Wales. Simply select this option in the checkout. Note that both your delivery date and installation date will be booked in at the same time, however it is likely your delivery will happen at least a day before your installation.

Does my bike shed need to be installed on a hard level base?

Our bike sheds rest perfectly on the following bases: a level concrete slab, a paved area, an eco-base and a level deck. 

  1. Concrete slab: The concrete slab should be a minimum of the same dimensions footprint (W x D) as the bike shed you have ordered. It should be  at least 100mm thick and of course level. 
  2. Paved area: good for any of our bike sheds, particualarly our lower roof versions. The paved base must be level. 
  3. Eco-base: this is a grid layer filled up with shingle. The eco-base should be laid on sharp sand over a well compacted and level sub-base at least 100mm thick. The eco-base should be firmed up and level before filling with shingle and ideally  finished around 25mm above ground level. 
  4. Decking. Decking is a good option for sloped areas. The frame should be set level and the joists running side to side. This is because the joists on our sheds run from front to back, so the result is better structural support. If you need any advice, please contact us

The following bases are not recommended: gravel, soil, grass, ‘astro’ and old or uneven decking/paving.

All our bike sheds include a sturdy C24 treated timber floor, which sits on feet. These feet can be adjusted (between 1-3cm) so that the base is firm before installing the rest of the bike shed. 

We do not install concrete bases, so you would need to arrange this prior to your Stow being installed.

Sloped locations: 

  1. If the location for installation is paved with a slight slope for drainage, our Stows can be installed directly on that. The feet we use can be adjusted between 1-3cm. 
  2. If the slope is in the 3-8cm range (over a 2m distance), the Stow can still be installed but it will slope slightly.
  3. If the location has a slope of over 8cm (across 2m) we may be able to accomodate this using an alternative solution. Please contact us to discuss.
  4. If the location slopes over 20cm (across 2m) we recommend that you install a level concrete base or decked/paved area. 

Do I need planning permission?

You won’t need planning permission for a typical bike shed to be located in your back garden.

Any structure located in a front garden technically requires planning permission. However, every planning officer we have spoken to has advised that in practice, there would only be an issue if there were legitimate complaints from neighbours or if you live in a conservation area. Typically, most local councils are in support of cycling initiatives.

In the event that you do submit a planning application, just let us know and we can supply you with planning drawings.

 

Do I need to carry out maintenance on my products?

All products are made to the highest standards, using premium grade materials and hardware.  That said, in order to prolong the life and maintain your products stunning appearance some maintenance is required.   The most important to remember is to keep the sides and base of the product clear from debris build-up. Any build-up of leaves, soil, ivy etc against the timber cladding and base will prevent the timber from breathing. This could create a damp environment and cause rot. If the cladding or floor rot prematurely due to debris build-up, this will Invalidate your Guarantee. Other types of maintenance we recommend are as follows: 

  • Walls, doors, cladding: keep clear of debris or invasive plants. Products are pre-treated with either Osmo or Danish, plant based environmentally friendly wood oil.  This helps ensure the timber on your product lasts for many years to come. 
  • Hinges and locks: keep oiled as necessary for smooth operation.