Storage Shed | Better Built USA Blog

 

When do you know that it is time to add a storage shed to your personal property? How about when you go to open a closet and it is stuffed so full that piles of items immediately fall out of it? How about when a room, which should be reserved for a guest bedroom or something of that nature, transforms into a storage area? Or when you no longer can park your automobiles inside the garage, because it has become flooded with junk?

When you decide to add a storage shed to a place like your backyard, the very thought of it can be enticing. After all, just think what you will now be able to do with all that extra space! Additionally, if you plan to build the unit on your own (or with help) it can be a fun side project that helps develop woodworking skills if you currently lack that ability and knowledge. However, if you do not feel comfortable installing the storage shed personally, fear not – there are a lot of fantastic companies out there that not only specialize in selling storage units but can also handle the construction of them.

Here are a few things to consider before you purchase a storage shed:

Local Building Codes

Depending on the city or open space you reside on, there are going to be building codes. Some municipalities are stricter than others. Regardless, be sure to check with the chamber of commerce before you even consider buying a unit.

Location, Location, Location

The golden rule not only applies to your actual house but, believe it or not, also where you will eventually construct your new storage shed. For example, if you are building a small shed to house tools for gardening, you likely want it not far from the actual garden. Likewise, you would be a fool to store your power tools far from where you do work on automobiles or something of that nature.

Avoid Trouble in the Future

Once again it falls upon location. Did you ever consider that the elm or oak tree you just planted by the storage unit could present a problem in the future. Sure, right now it is small and fragile but that tree will grow and when a severe storm strikes a decade later, all it takes is one heavy branch to fall and crash through the roof of the structure not only delivering exterior destruction in the process but also potential damage to goods inside the unit. A good rule of thumb is to avoid placing a shed near a tree – big or small. Likewise, make sure the ground is level and stable in order to avoid bad drainage that could lead to water damage.

Size & Style of your Storage Shed

Depending on where you shop, you may have an endless amount of options for the size of your storage space especially if you custom build. It is not only important to plan for the right size but also the material of the exterior of the structure. Wood is the most common, though vinyl and metal are more recent as well as very practical options.