| If you own a house, at some point the need | | | | the grade, the more work needs to be done. |
| for extra storage space soon becomes evident. | | | | Typically a grade of 6" or less over the |
| Arguably the most common solution is to | | | | dimension of the shed can be compensated for |
| purchase a storage shed. There are hundreds | | | | by using patio stones, especially for smaller |
| of styles and options available, but taking | | | | units. In areas faced with frost upheaval or |
| the time review these 5 key steps will enable | | | | poor drainage, it is recommend that at least |
| you to make a smarter decision. | | | | 6" of topsoil be removed and filled with |
| | | | screening stone (1/2" or smaller gravel is |
| 1. What is the primary function of the shed? | | | | also acceptable). |
| In most cases, storage space is the key | | | | |
| requirement, so figure out how much space is | | | | 5. Be considerate to your neighbors! Don't |
| needed. A small 4' x 8' lean-to style | | | | put up something that belongs in a junkyard |
| provides sufficient space for small tools, | | | | beside your neighbor's manicured backyard. |
| but larger items do require more space. I | | | | Most municipalities require that storage |
| strongly recommend choosing the largest size | | | | sheds be 2 ft from the fence or property |
| that you can afford, which still blends in | | | | line, so be sure to check ahead of time to |
| with your landscape. Remember that most | | | | avoid any aggravation. Talk to your neighbors |
| municipalities require building permits for | | | | about your intentions - 99% of the time they |
| any building over 100 sq. ft. | | | | will appreciate your concern and be very |
| | | | supportive of your project. |
| 2. Is the shed going to play a prominent role | | | | |
| in your day to day activities? If so, make | | | | The internet is an excellent source for |
| sure that you choose a style and options that | | | | information on the hundreds of suppliers and |
| give you good access and provide adequate | | | | styles available. If ordering online be sure |
| lighting. Windows and skylights provide | | | | to read the warranty and returns information |
| plenty of natural light, but it is common to | | | | carefully as often goods of this nature |
| run electricity to the shed. For easy access, | | | | cannot be returned. Just because a company |
| make sure that the doors are at least 34" | | | | has a fancy website it does not mean it |
| wide, as most lawn mowers will easily pass | | | | stands behind its product - try searching for |
| through. | | | | articles or information on the particular |
| | | | company. Most companies offer either pre-cut |
| 3. How important is the look of the shed to | | | | or pre-fabricated kits delivered to your |
| my property. Remember that anything you erect | | | | residence. If choosing a fully installed |
| will either add or impair on your property | | | | product, deal with a local company with a |
| value. Metal and vinyl are the least | | | | fixed location (avoid the ones that set-up at |
| expensive options, but these tend to look | | | | seasonal locations), and again be prudent |
| ordinary. Wood and pre-finished sidings | | | | with your research. I strongly recommend |
| normally add character and value, but are | | | | avoiding companies that require more than a |
| usually more expensive. | | | | 30% deposit - you'll end up waiting longer |
| | | | than you should. A storage shed is an |
| 4. Consider the grade and accessibility of | | | | important purchase - a little research will |
| the location. A level site is the starting | | | | go a long way in helping making the right |
| point for all shed construction The greater | | | | decision. |