Building A Yard Shed
A storage shed not only will give you additional space, but also can add to the landscape and increase your property value. Before you get started, some decisions will have to be made on your part.
Will the shed have a foundation or a base? If you aren't sure about the location of the shed long term, then pouring concrete might not be the best choice. It's more expensive, but will provide more stability and longevity. Consider your purpose for the shed and what will be stored in it.
Treated lumber can serve as a base using gravel or building pillars. This type of lumber can withstand the elements better than other woods, as it keeps insects, fungal decay, and microorganisms away. The lifespan of pressure treated lumber can extend beyond 20 years.
Consider the climate you are in. Does it rain a lot? If so, then the shed will need to be waterproofed. One way to do so is by putting up T1-11 siding, which is plywood with vertical groove, and spray the wood with a stain that will keep water out. If you don't weatherproof your shed, then the wood will begin rotting in the first few years. Be sure there is enough drainage in the area as well so it won't flood.
The shed also should have proper ventilation, particularly if you decide not to use concrete as your foundation. Coating the wood in your shed with the right stain or preservative will help with this.
Will you put up siding or paint the shed? Because it's easier to manage, siding is often the choice for backyard sheds. This will be the more expensive choice in the beginning, but it will pay for itself over time. If you are on a tight budget however, then painting is a way to save some money in the short term.
How strong does the structure of the shed need to be? How much will you be able to hang from the walls?
Do you need to have power supply in your shed? Many people overlook this feature, but it can really come in handy. It's always good to have some extra lighting if necessary. Be sure however that it's done right, so it's in line with the code and for your own personal safety.
Location comes down to finding an area with enough space, while making sure it's close enough to your house so you don't have to walk a mile to get there.
Once all this has been figured out, you can begin searching for the shed plans that meet your requirements.
Will the shed have a foundation or a base? If you aren't sure about the location of the shed long term, then pouring concrete might not be the best choice. It's more expensive, but will provide more stability and longevity. Consider your purpose for the shed and what will be stored in it.
Treated lumber can serve as a base using gravel or building pillars. This type of lumber can withstand the elements better than other woods, as it keeps insects, fungal decay, and microorganisms away. The lifespan of pressure treated lumber can extend beyond 20 years.
Consider the climate you are in. Does it rain a lot? If so, then the shed will need to be waterproofed. One way to do so is by putting up T1-11 siding, which is plywood with vertical groove, and spray the wood with a stain that will keep water out. If you don't weatherproof your shed, then the wood will begin rotting in the first few years. Be sure there is enough drainage in the area as well so it won't flood.
The shed also should have proper ventilation, particularly if you decide not to use concrete as your foundation. Coating the wood in your shed with the right stain or preservative will help with this.
Will you put up siding or paint the shed? Because it's easier to manage, siding is often the choice for backyard sheds. This will be the more expensive choice in the beginning, but it will pay for itself over time. If you are on a tight budget however, then painting is a way to save some money in the short term.
How strong does the structure of the shed need to be? How much will you be able to hang from the walls?
Do you need to have power supply in your shed? Many people overlook this feature, but it can really come in handy. It's always good to have some extra lighting if necessary. Be sure however that it's done right, so it's in line with the code and for your own personal safety.
Location comes down to finding an area with enough space, while making sure it's close enough to your house so you don't have to walk a mile to get there.
Once all this has been figured out, you can begin searching for the shed plans that meet your requirements.
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