Purchasing an outdoor storage shed is a big decision. Most outdoor storage sheds are built to last for years, so it’s important to find the right one that will work both short-term and long-term for you and your family. Before you decide on a storage shed, think about the following considerations to help you make the right choice. If you still have questions about the right storage shed for you, contact the outdoor storage experts at Dutch Country Sheds!
10 Things To Consider When Buying An Outdoor Storage Shed
From shed size to budget to materials, there are a lot of factors to consider before you settle on your perfect outdoor shed. Grab a notebook and jot down some of these tips so you can avoid making an informed decision, that may leave you regretting your purchase in the future.
#1: What Material Will You Choose?
One of the most important factors to decide on early in your shed-hunting process is what material your future shed will be made from. When shopping for a shed, you can choose from wooden sheds, metal sheds, and plastic sheds.
Each type of shed comes with its own pros and cons. Metal sheds are rot and insect resistant, but prone to rust and leaks.
Plastic sheds are low maintenance and easy to move around, but are not customizable. Wooden sheds are strong and can last a lifetime, but tend to cost more upfront.
Click here to read the extensive Shed Buyer’s Guide from Classic Buildings, or contact Dutch Country Sheds for help deciding on your perfect shed!
#2: What Shed Size Do You Need Now?
Looking at all of your items that currently need to be stored and organized will help give you an idea of what shed size you should choose. If you are simply looking for a garden shed to store a few simple tools, seeds, and hoses, then you probably don’t need a 14×40 shed!
If you are planning to store a lot of larger equipment, such as ATVs, riding lawnmowers, leaf blowers, etc. then a larger shed would make sense. It’s always best to get a shed that is bigger than you need rather than smaller!
#3: What Shed Size Will You Need In The Future?
Of course, no one knows exactly what the future will bring. However, it is good to think about the next five to ten years with your shed, as most sheds are built to last even longer than that.
Maybe right now you only have a tiny garden but plan to expand your gardening skills in the next few years.If that’s the case, purchasing a shed size that will work both now and in the next few years as you accumulate more tools and equipment.
You should also ensure your shed’s doors are large enough for your biggest piece of equipment to fit through.
Replacing your shed after only a few years can be a hassle, and does not allow you to get the most for your money. That’s why it’s important to think about your needs now and think about what your needs might be in the future.
#4: What Is Your Budget?
Knowing your budget will help guide you through other factors, such as shed size and shed materials. It’s a good idea to decide on a budget before looking at sheds, so you don’t end up with any financial surprises!
Your budget will also help determine the quality of storage building available to you. For example, you may be able to get a very large low-quality wooden shed for the same price as a smaller, high-quality wooden shed.
Though a larger shed may seem more appealing, if it is not built correctly, it can warp, create leaks, and require a lot of maintenance or even repairs. That can end up costing you more down the road than if you had spent a bit more up front for a larger, high-quality shed. These are the kinds of scenarios you should consider before purchasing, as it will help you determine how flexible your budget is and what you are or are not willing to spend more on.
#5: What Will You Use Your Shed For?
Of course, many homeowners simply use their shed for storage. However, sheds can be used for so much more than that. Also, what you plan on storing in your shed can have an impact on which shed you choose.
If you want to store a lot of small tools and need to install hooks and shelves, an easy-to-customize wooden shed is ideal. If you have a smaller budget and only need a place to keep your lawnmower safe and dry, a metal or plastic shed will do just fine.
As mentioned above, storage sheds are more commonly being used for more than just storage.
Homeowners have transformed their wooden sheds into chicken coops, guest houses, offices, workshops, exercise studios, dog kennels, “she-sheds” or “man caves,” and more! If you think you may want to use your shed now or in the future for more than storage, a wooden shed is your best choice.
#6: What Do Your Existing Structures Look Like?
Many homeowners want to match their new outdoor storage shed to their existing structures. Other homeowners don’t care at all! Wooden sheds are easiest to match with your home and other structures on your property, as they can be easily painted and customized to match siding colors, shingles, etc.
However, there are metal paints you can add to a metal shed, and many new plastic sheds are quite attractive and built to look like wooden sheds. A high-quality storage shed can add value to your home, so it is a good idea to consider how important your new shed’s looks are.
#7: How Will You Get Your Shed Home?
Finding the perfect shed may not be so perfect at all if you can’t get it home! Sheds, especially larger sheds, can be difficult to transport if you don’t have the proper tools and equipment.
Before you purchase a shed, be sure to ask about delivery methods (if any), or figure out how you can delivery it home yourself (e.g. renting a truck). You should ask questions such as is the delivery free, or is it an additional fee? Is it already included in the price?
At Dutch Country Sheds, we offer free Delivery (within 30 miles of our showrooms), free Set-up by highly trained installers, and free leveling on your property.
#8: What Are The Building Codes In Your Area?
Do you know your local bylaws? Many areas require a building permit to add a new structure to your property. Some only require a permit for those building or adding a shed larger than a certain size.
It’s important to have a good understanding about local bylaws before you settle on a shed – you wouldn’t want to purchase your dream shed just to find out you are breaking a bylaw! When you work with a reputable shed company, they will know all of the bylaws and potential issues you may run into, so you don’t have to worry. Still, it’s a good idea to educate yourself just in case.
#9: Do You Want To DIY?
Doing-it-yourself has become more and more popular, as DIY guides and videos are quick and easy to find online. DIY building can save you money upfront.
Many homeowners also enjoy a more hands-on approach, especially those who are experienced with construction projects.
You can choose to build a shed completely from scratch, though that would require a great deal of knowledge. Or, you can purchase a shed kit that comes with instructions and all the equipment you need for your soon-to-be shed.
If you are not an experienced handyman, DIY can be difficult, strenuous, and may not be as cost-effective as it appears. Adding a poorly built shed to your property won’t improve your property value, and repairs and constant maintenance can become frustrating and expensive.
If DIY is not your thing and you would like to guarantee a high-quality shed, it’s best to work with experienced professionals who know how to construct, deliver, and install your new shed. When you work with the professionals, you won’t have to worry about building mishaps or structural issues. Many companies also offer a warranty on their buildings, so even if something does go wrong, you won’t need to worry about spending more money on repairs in the near future.
#10: Do You Want To Customize Your Shed?
One final factor to consider is how much you want to customize your shed, if at all. If you purchase a wooden shed, it’s easy to install shelves, hooks, and other organizational additions right onto the walls – meaning you can get away with a smaller size shed while still maximizing storage space.
If you choose a metal or plastic shed, you can still add organizational accessories such as shelving units, but your customization options are limited and drilling into metal or plastic to add hooks or wall shelves is not ideal.
Think about what you may want to customize and how you want to achieve your organizational goals. Thinking about these things will play into what shed size and material you eventually decide on.
What To Consider – An Infographic
Ready For Your Own Outdoor Storage Shed?
If you are ready to purchase a premium portable storage building, or have any questions about finding the right building for you, contact Dutch Country Sheds now to learn more! A storage shed can be the solution you’ve been looking for.
We even have a Rent-To-Own option to make it easy for you to own your very own shed today! Dutch Country Sheds is committed to both affordability and high-quality structures.
We take the time to listen to our customers and help them choose the best design for their particular needs and budget. We are always happy to answer any questions you may have.
We are so confident in the high quality of our product that we offer a 5-year blanket warranty.
Our 5-year blanket warranty covers any defect in workmanship, lumber, and products, including the function of the product. Dutch Country Sheds are made to last – we guarantee it with our 5-year warranty!
“I appreciate being treated as if I were your only customer,
allowing as much time as needed to reach a decision.”
– Russell J. Murrary, a Classic Buildings Customer – More Testimonials Here!
Ready To Find Your Dream Shed?
Sources:
www.doityourself.com / www.classicbuildingsales.com / www.thespruce.com
