Sheds have gone from a place to store your rusty garden tools and pool toys to beautiful additions to the landscape of your lawn. We’ve seen everything from garden centers to private retreats and even tiny guest houses!
The possibilities are endless when it comes to sheds. Before you buy an outdoor shed, we’ve got a list of things to consider.
The Rules of Building a Shed
Before you start in on any shed project, you will want to understand zoning ordinances, deed restrictions, and building codes. Some areas require building permits for sheds. You’ll also want to know how far from property lines your shed can be and what materials are acceptable for siding. If you live in a neighborhood with an HOA, be sure to check the rules first.
Preparing Your Landscaping
Does your land need to be leveled? Before you have your shed built, you’ll also need to put down cinder blocks, concrete piers, a concrete slab, or crushed stone.
Siding
The most attractive siding will be natural wood. However, if you choose natural wood, you’ll need to make sure that you are keeping up with maintenance. Wood rot is a big problem for outdoor wood sheds. You’ll want to go with wood that has natural resins that make them more resistant to rotting.
If you want a more maintenance-free siding, you’ll want to go with vinyl. This is especially good if your house siding is also vinyl so that it matches. With vinyl, you’ll want to be sure to pressure wash it at least twice per year to prevent mold and other damage.
Size
Before you purchase a shed or have one built, you’ll want to make sure that it’s going to be big enough. It’s best to measure the largest items you want to go into your shed and make sure that there is plenty of room on the inside and that the entrance to the shed is wide enough.
Two Sheds?
Maybe one shed just won’t cut it. Maybe you would prefer having a “she shed” and a “he shed”. After you check on building codes and with your HOA, you might consider a 2nd shed. This can be especially helpful if you and your family love outdoor projects like gardening, but also want a mini-retreat space to read and relax. Or maybe you want a crafting, and a mini-greenhouse shed It’ll be easier and more cost effective if you have both sheds built at the same time, so before you build one, ask yourself if one will be enough!
Zaarly can help with all of your home projects, from sheds to shingles and everything in between.
Want some shed inspiration? We’ve pinned our favorite sheds on Pinterest!
