You might be planning to buy a farm or garden shed, but you are unsure about how to choose the best possible option. Listed below are 10 valuable shed-buying tips.
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Material
You must take into account which material among wooden, steel or plastic is more suitable to your needs. Although wooden sheds are relatively less expensive compared to plastic sheds, their susceptibility to rot once exposed to moisture is a significant concern, especially seeing as this significantly affects durability. However, wooden sheds allow for more flexibility in size and design.
Metal sheds do not burn or rot, which means they are quite durable, even though installation requires the skills and expertise of a professional. As much as condensation also tends to drip from metallic shed roofs, your storage options for farm vehicles or tools can never be affected. Maintenance is also quite minimal when it comes to metal sheds.
Plastic sheds are considerably maintenance-free and easy to assemble since they usually fit together rather easily. Taking them apart in case you have to move is also simple and straightforward. Regrettably, they can be quite unappealing when it comes to looks and their structural solidity might not provide the most suitable option for the storage of heavy machinery such as farm vehicles. The type of shed you settle on should depend on the intended functions as well as your personal taste.
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Size
Opting for a shed big enough to accommodate all your farm machinery is recommended, of course depending on whether you have space. On the other hand, if you’re aiming for a smaller shed for your tools or bikes, the size problem is not that pronounced. This size should also offer enough room for the installation of a work bench. You must have knowledge of precise dimensions if you plan to install the shed in a very confined space.
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Sturdiness
Over time, flimsy sheds develop distortion on the sides, sagging roofs, and doors that do not shut properly. Heavy farm machinery also need to be stored in a sturdy shed. It is, therefore, important to check the sturdiness of a shed before purchase.
If you decide on a wooden shed, check and confirm the timbers supporting the roof do not have large, dark-edged knots, which are usually warning signs the supports might fall out.
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Access
The doorway should be wide enough and of adequate height to ensure the shed is easily accessible, especially since most farm machinery is rather large. You will be able to bring in wide items for storage once the entrance is wide enough. You must also take your own height into consideration if you’re building a smaller type shed, since garden sheds tend to be tiny in proportions height wise. So make sure that doors are of adequate height, so you’d be able to walk in and out without hunching. Furthermore, taller sheds have more wall/rack space for various boxes or things laying around.
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Ability to keep the rain out
Rainwater running down the walls of wooden sheds often causes rotting and leaks. Ensure the roof adequately overhangs the sides to minimise such issues. Remember, the measurements should be from the inside edge of the roof and not the outside.
For wooden sheds the bottom part of a window is prone to rot unless it features sloping sills with a drip groove to ensure the water drips to the ground.
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Price vs. Quality
Compare the price against the quality before you settle on what to purchase. Pricing should not be the only determining factor. Do not ignore alternatives once drawn to the cheapest option. Sheds featuring high-quality sidings are often merely a few hundred dollars more than the outbuildings sided with materials of a lower-quality.
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Design
Sheds are not only utilitarian, especially since once installed their appearance affects the overall aesthetic value of properties. As such, you should choose a shed design that complements your home such as a rustic design for your country-style house. Gable roof would be a more traditional choice whereas skillion roof is more modern.
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Know the regulations
Become acquainted with deed restrictions, zoning ordinances, and building codes. Approvals are often needed from council regarding the type and size of the building on various zoned properties.
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Type of installation
If you want to save money and prefer a do-it-yourself installation, ensure you have the necessary equipment, knowledge and skills. Make sure you adhere to the instructions provided to avoid unwanted errors. However, engaging the services of professionals ensures high-quality installations in less time compared to do-it-yourself installations. Larger sheds require greater number of people and improved skills to assemble.
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Accessories
Small touches make a big difference, and your attention to details can make the difference between an eye-opener and an eyesore, which is important since you will probably have to look at your shed on a daily basis for an unforeseeable future. You can add shutters, window boxes, insulation, ventilation, skylights, roller doors, personal access doors, internal walls, mezzanine flooring or weather-vanes.
