Backyard Projects: 5 Tips When Considering a Storage Shed

Are you at a loss when it comes to finding spots in the garage to store your lawn equipment, your seasonal items, your four-wheeler, your tools and more? If so, a storage shed may be the perfect solution for you.

There are a few things to think about as you consider what type of shed would fit your needs. The experts at Best in Backyards have come up with five important tips for the shed selection and preparation process:

– Location: While the corner of your yard is a tempting place to tuck your shed, it is best to place the structure somewhat close to the house. Remember, if you need a power tool or a shovel, and the weather is poor, you won’t want to have to make a big trek. Also important when selecting a location is making sure that the ground is relatively level and dry, with minimal runoff water.

– Size: Average sheds range from 8×8 feet to 14×32 feet, but the right size all depends on what you’re planning to store. Make a list of the items you’re planning to place in the shed, gather them in one place and take measurements to determine the size of the storage shed you will need. Remember, it is always better to go (take this out a couple of feet) bigger than to take a chance by going too small.

– Site preparation and foundation: There are a few options when it comes to prepping the land for the foundation of the shed. The most popular option is to lay a bed of gravel that extends a couple of feet beyond the perimeter of the shed. This will act as a drainage and leveling system, while helping to prevent settling. A more decorative way to hold the gravel is to add railroad ties or 4x4s as a border.  Another common method is to use solid concrete paver blocks to level the shed, with no preparation to the ground. This should only be done when a properly built, pressure-treated floor is constructed. A third alternative is a concrete slab that could act as the floor of the shed, instead of a wood floor.

– Aesthetics and materials: Storage sheds come in many styles, including A-frame, barn, Cape, garden and Quaker. Different styles mean different aesthetics, from roof shapes and shingle options to windows and shutters, plus trim colors, weather vanes and decorative door trim. Door width should depend on your largest piece of lawn equipment, such as your mower deck. Shed style and siding, such as vinyl or wood are both popular choices. When selecting a material consider what’s important to you as the homeowner. That usually means a shed that resembles the features of your home and requires little upkeep.

– Ventilation: Ventilation should be a priority when you think of your future shed. It is imperative for circulation: Keeping the building cool in the summertime and ensuring that fumes from power equipment escape. As Best in Backyards Vice President of Sales Rolf Zimmermann put it, ventilation “allows the building to breathe.” Ventilation may be accomplished via a ridge vent, a gable and vents, and/or a vented cupola.

The best tip we can give is to take your time and do your research, as a storage shed is an investment that, when done right, adds beauty and value to your property. Help us by sharing your advice on other considerations when purchasing your first shed.