Craftsman Vertical Storage Shed

When I first set out to find the perfect storage solution for my garden tools, I stumbled upon the Craftsman Vertical Storage Shed (model CMXRSSC2050). Its compact design and promise of durability immediately caught my attention. After using it for a few months, I can confidently share my experience with this storage shed.

Design and Build Quality

The Craftsman Vertical Storage Shed stands at an impressive 72 inches tall, with a depth of 24.75 inches and a width of 32.3 inches. This tall profile is ideal for storing long-handled tools like shovels, rakes, and brooms, making it a great fit for my gardening needs. The shed is constructed from multi-wall resin panels, which provide a decent level of strength and stability. However, the material does feel somewhat flimsy compared to other storage solutions I've used.

One of the standout features is its water-resistant and UV-protected construction. Living in an area with unpredictable weather, I found this particularly useful. The shed has held up well against rain and sun exposure, showing no signs of warping or fading.

Assembly Experience

Assembling the shed was a mixed bag. On one hand, the process was straightforward and required minimal tools. The instructions were clear for the most part, and I managed to put it together in under an hour. However, there were some challenges, especially when it came to fitting the back panels into the side slots. The tabs were a bit flimsy and required multiple attempts to secure properly. This could be frustrating, especially if you're assembling it alone.

Storage Capacity and Customization

The shed's interior is quite spacious, capable of accommodating up to four shelves. Unfortunately, the shelves are not included, and finding compatible ones can be a bit of a hassle. I ended up making my own shelves using the provided pattern, which worked out well but required some extra effort. This is something to keep in mind if you plan to store smaller items that need shelving.

Despite this, the shed's design is quite practical. The tall profile allows for easy storage of long-handled tools, and there's even room to hang items or install hooks for better organization. I found this particularly useful for keeping my gardening supplies neatly arranged.

Security and Stability

The shed features padlock-ready doors, which add a layer of security. However, the padlock loops on the handles are somewhat flimsy, and a determined individual could probably break into the shed with minimal effort. For added stability, I anchored the shed to a nearby fence, which has helped it withstand strong winds and heavy rain.

Practical Use and Maintenance

In terms of everyday use, the shed has been quite functional. It holds all my garden tools, chemicals, and even some outdoor cushions. The resin material makes it easy to clean—just a quick spray with a hose and a wipe down with a microfiber cloth keeps it looking new. The shed is also lightweight, making it easy to move if needed, although I would recommend assembling it where you plan to keep it to avoid it coming apart during relocation.

Customer Service and Value for Money

One area where the shed falls short is customer service. I encountered issues with missing hardware and had a difficult time getting support from Craftsman and Suncast. This was a bit disappointing, especially given the shed's price point. At around $200, I expected a more robust and hassle-free product.

Final Thoughts

Overall, the Craftsman Vertical Storage Shed is a decent storage solution with some notable pros and cons. Its compact design, water-resistant construction, and ease of assembly make it a practical choice for garden tool storage. However, the flimsy material, lack of included shelves, and subpar customer service are significant drawbacks.

Would I recommend this shed? It depends on your needs. If you're looking for a quick and easy storage solution for long-handled tools and don't mind putting in a bit of extra effort to customize it, then this shed could be a good fit. However, if you're seeking a more robust and secure storage option, you might want to explore other alternatives.