Homeowners in need of extra space are turning to back yard sheds to help manage their increasing space needs.
It also appears that homeowners are pretty evenly split between do-it-your-self and do-it-for-me shed construction.
If you are in need of a shed for whatever reason, read on to learn everything you need to know to purchase the right yard sheds for you.
9 Things to Consider When Shopping for Yard Sheds
Currently, you can use a shed for your dogs, your kids (as a playhouse), extra living space, and so much more. You can even drop a used shipping container into your back yard to use as a shed.
Before you purchase your shed check out these tips.
1. Follow the Rules
The first step in choosing the right shed for you is to know the rules. What are the local zoning laws? Are you allowed to have a shed? Are there limits on size or height dimensions?
Are color or siding requirements dictated by your Home Owners Association (HOA)? These are all things that you need to know before you consider purchasing a shed.
You don’t want to spend money on the perfect shed for your needs only too find out that you have to tear it down.
Bottom line check with your local planning office and HOA first and don’t forget to pull the necessary building permits before you start.
2. Foundation & Flooring
This also falls under potential zoning issues. Do you need or want your shed to have a poured foundation or would you prefer a dirt floor? If you are not restricted by local building codes then the decision comes down to preference and how you intend to use your shed.
If you find the perfect shed, but it doesn’t have the flooring you desire, talk to the manufacturer. Often times you can add a floor to your shed design at only a small additional cost.
3. Look for Quality Sheds
Often times we look for the cheapest item possible. Unfortunately, when it comes to outdoor sheds this is not always the right answer.
If you want your shed to withstand the elements consider spending a little more to prevent the need to replace it regularly.
If the price is an issue, consider purchasing a simple shed that you can build out as you have additional funds.
4. How Will the Shed Fit with Your Outdoor Decor
Even if you are only using your shed to store things, you don’t want it to detract from your outdoor environment. If you have a more rural or rustic feel to your home, buy Amish sheds, they are built with quality in mind and are perfect complements to your home’s look.
If you are looking for a shed that is not a smaller version of your home, focus on sheds that share design elements with your home. If you have curved archways over exterior doors on your home, look for similar arches in your shed.
5. Curb Appeal for Your Shed
Look at your home, do you have a certain type of curb appeal? Big plants flanking your front door You may want to consider adding the same landscape design around your shed.
Plants and other outdoor decorations can turn a simple shed into a beautiful focal point for your yard.
6. Hay, Sticks, or Stones
The 3 little pigs all picked different building materials. You also have options when it comes to the material you choose for your shed.
In general, there are 3 types of sheds: wood, metal, and plastic. Choose the material that best fits your climate and aesthetic needs.
Wood sheds offer the most versatility. You can add siding, paint the exterior, and even put special shingles on the roof.
Metal sheds are easy to maintain but come in a limited color pallet. These structures have a modern urban or industrial feel.
You can also choose a plastic shed. These sheds are often quick to assemble and are very rugged.
Be sure to understand any maintenance that needs to be done regularly to maintain your shed before you buy it.
7. DIY or Pro Installation?
To answer this question you have to look at three things.
First, do you have the time to install a shed? Some prefab options snap together in a day, others take much longer to build.
Second, do you have the skills to install the shed? While you may feel comfortable snapping together a plastic shed, can you level the ground and create the foundation necessary to ensure your shed stays where you put it?
Third, is this how you want to spend your time. We all often complain of not having enough time so think about that before you commit to building your own shed. There are many professionals that will build it for a reasonable price.
8. Will the Stuff You are Storing Fit in the Shed?
If you have thought about the aesthetics before the function, take a pause before you purchase. The goal is to use the shed, not make it an empty useless building in your yard.
If you are using your shed to store yard equipment, will the riding lawnmower fit through the door easily?
You may also want to consider how the door opens. If it is a rolling door can all members of your family raise and lower it?
9. Unique Shed Designs
If you have a smaller piece of property, you may not want your shed to have a large footprint. Consider a shed that will fit into a corner, the alternative shape will give you plenty of storage but not take up a large amount of your yard.
Another option is to build up not out. Multi-story sheds can be beneficial, especially if there are things that you only need periodically that you want to store.
You can also purchase a longer narrower shed to better use space across a back fence for example.
Back yard sheds come in all shapes and sizes. Learn what you can install in your area and what you will need from your shed. Then choose the shed design that fits your budget and blends into your back yard decor.
How to Choose the Perfect Yard Shed
Now you have all the information you need to choose the perfect shed. Stick to this list and you will find the right shed for your yard.
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