Whether you're looking for additional space to store tools and machinery, or you'd like to develop a hobby shop close to home, storage sheds allow for users to extend their space and complete their projects. However, all storage sheds are not the same - it's important to consider the unique specifications you have and how you plan to use the space daily. Building a storage shed that is right for your needs is important in keeping it organized, useable, and efficient.
Planning for the Capacity of Your Shed
The first thing to do in building a storage shed, as with many other building projects, is proper planning. You need to know what you are going to store in the shed so that you can construct an appropriately sized shed for your needs. The last thing you want to do is to create extensions to your new shed or worse tear it down and start all over because you ended up making it too small. In addition, you may also ask yourself whether the shed is exclusively for storage only or whether you want to allot a workspace to get away from the world and indulge in your favorite hobby. You may consider the following shed sizes:
A 6x6 ft. shed can contain an average size ATV. An 8x8 ft. shed can house a small tractor. You need at least a 14x24 ft. shed to store a pickup truck and other tools. When you can visualize these sizes, then you can approximate the right size of a shed for your tools, barbecue equipment, and other garden essentials.
Check for Required Permits
Before planning and building your shed, know whether you are allowed to do so. Most areas require you to have a building permit when you plan to add a structure to your property. Therefore, it is beneficial to check your local building code for the necessary permits for putting up your shed. In some cases, you may also need to provide information on the materials that you plan to use in building your shed. In other instances, a representative from the municipality may survey your premises and the neighbors to ensure that there is no objection to the construction.
Building from Plan vs. Shed Kits
Another consideration to take into account is the unique specifications you may need with your shed. Some shed owners may opt for a shed kit – this is a beneficial idea if your storage needs are minimal. Shed kits can typically be constructed quickly and easily. While they are not as durable as built sheds, she kits are usually cost-efficient.
Building your own shed often requires carpentry skills that many homeowners do not possess, especially if you plan on customizing your shed or including lighting or electricity for projects. There are several questions we recommend considering before determining what type of shed would work best for you:
- Your planned activities: Will you be building a shed to store equipment, as a hobby building, for gardening?
- Your building type: How do you plan to use your building daily? What specific needs do you have that you should consider when designing your building?
- The interior layout of your storage shed: When building a shed, it’s important to consider the customization you may want inside. For instance, will you need electricity? Specific shelving? Benches and worktables? Windows?
- The appropriate materials for your structure: How long do you want your shed to last? A wooden shed can be subject to rot from water and insect damage, while a plastic shed may not be able to withstand severe weather.
Building a Shed: When to Call a Contractor
Building a shed can be a time consuming, difficult process when constructing it yourself. This is especially true if you’d like to use your shed as a hobby space or work area, or if you have specific needs that a shed kit cannot accommodate, including as windows, lighting, or electricity. Additionally, if you are storing valuable items in your shed (such as machinery or tools), you want to ensure that your shed is resistant to damage from weather, insects, mold, mildew, or fire.
As one of the top companies for post-frame buildings in Illinois, Blunier Builders works diligently to create durable, beautifully crafted projects, no matter the size. We utilize the same reliable construction methods for putting up storage sheds as we do when designing a pole barn home. Our team of designers is excited to work with you – give us details about the vision you have for your space, and we will draw it up for you, making sure to include any specific amenities you need.
Your Shed Experts
If you need additional information on how to build a storage shed, or if you require a professional to help you with installing or constructing your shed, then Blunier Builders is the expert to turn to. We have the experience to help you with building a storage shed, from selecting the right size and design to adding the important features to meet your requirements. Trust us for quality work on your sheds. Get in touch with us today for more information about our services.
