Interested in a new backyard shed or other portable storage building? When it comes to portable storage buildings, there are so many options. From style and size to budget and materials, choosing the right storage building for you and your family can feel a bit overwhelming. This article will guide you through the process and help you discover how to choose the right storage shed or portable building for you and your home. Have more questions about portable storage buildings and selecting the right one for you? Contact the experts at Dutch Country Sheds today to find out the answers to your questions!

How To Choose The Right Portable Storage Building

Read on for tips on choosing the right portable storage building for you and your needs. We will outline the many reasons why people choose to buy a shed (and how that affects which buildings you should consider), big factors to consider, and common shed-buying mishaps to avoid.

Why Buy A Shed?

When trying choose between different portable storage building options, one of the first things you should think about is why do you want/need a shed in the first place? The answer to that question will help narrow down your options. For example, if you plan on storing lots of small, fragile items in your shed, a shed with a loft may be best. If you plan on using your shed as an office space or even a tiny home/guest house, a cabin-style portable building may suit your needs. If you are wondering, “why buy a shed?” see the list below for some of the top uses for storage sheds.

• Additional Storage Space – One of the biggest, if not the biggest, reason why people choose to buy a storage shed is because it provides additional storage space! A shed is the perfect place to keep lawnmowers, gardening tools, bicycles, and other outdoor equipment. Thinking about how many items that not only need to be stored right now but will likely need to be stored in the future will help you determine the style and size of your future portable building.
• An Extra Room – Some people choose to buy a shed to use as an additional living space. There are many ways to convert a shed into a livable space. Some choose to renovate their shed into an art studio, an office space, a personal at-home gym, or even a tiny home!
• Avoid DIY Pitfalls – Many people weigh the pros and cons of buying a shed and building a shed. DIY shed projects are relatively popular and often seem like the most cost-effective storage solution. However, others choose to buy a shed instead for a variety of reasons. Buying a shed from a reputable company ensures you end up with a long-lasting, high-quality shed with a warranty. It also ensures you don’t have to worry about building mistakes and other DIY pitfalls such as injury or strain.

Some people even choose to use their shed as a multi-purpose building. For example, if you choose to purchase a larger shed with lots of interior space, you can use it for both storage and as an office or additional living space! Before you begin looking for a shed, jot down what you plan to use your shed for in the next year, in the next five years, and the next ten years. It may help you get a better sense of the size and style of shed that’s best for you!

Important Factors To Consider Before Buying A Shed

Once you have narrowed down your options and decided what you plan to use your shed for, it’s time to take some other important factors into consideration. These factors will help you further narrow down your options and bring you one step closer to owning your dream shed!

Shed Material

Sheds today are usually made from one of three materials: wood, metal, and resin (plastic). Each type of shed comes with their own pros and cons. Wooden sheds are known for their strength and durability. A well-built wooden shed can literally last a lifetime! However, they tend to cost more up-front and do require regular maintenance. Metal sheds are usually inexpensive and are resistant to both insects and rot. Though they can be durable, they are prone to rusting and leaking and are not easily customized. Resin sheds require very little maintenance and are lightweight and easy to move. However, they are not as durable as their wooden counterparts and are very difficult to customize. To read more about the difference between wooden, metal, and plastic sheds, click here!

Your Budget

Keeping a budget in mind is a great way to help narrow down your options. However, keep in mind that purchasing a poorly made, budget shed will likely end up costing you more in the long run due to heavy maintenance, regular repairs, and even eventually needing a replacement. Though the cheapest option is often appealing, remember that you will always get your money’s worth with a high-quality portable building.

Existing Structures

You may want to find a shed that goes well with your existing structures. Of course, it doesn’t have to be a perfect replication of your home! However, if you have a very modern-style house, you may want a more modern shed as opposed to a rustic or traditional looking shed. Though some may be indifferent about this, it is still something everyone should at least consider before purchasing a portable building. A beautiful backyard shed that complements your landscape and home can actually help increase your property value!

Delivery Methods

Sheds are not exactly easy to move on your own! Before purchasing a shed, you should find out how your shed will get from the company’s lot to your backyard. 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. See the video below to learn more about our delivery process!

Customization Options & Size

Of course, choosing the right size for your portable building is one of the most important factors when trying to choose the right shed for you. When considering size, it’s also important to think about possible customization options. For example, if you purchase a wooden shed, it’s easy to install shelves, hooks, and other organizational additions – meaning you can get away with a smaller size shed while still maximizing storage space. As mentioned above, think about all the items you want stored not only in the immediate future, but also in the more distant future. That way you won’t be disappointed three years down the road when you’ve already run out of storage space.

Common Mishaps

There are many things to look out for before purchasing a portable building. There are also many things to avoid! Avoid these common mishaps and mistakes so you don’t end up regretting such a big purchase.

Buying The Cheapest Shed

There’s nothing wrong with getting a great deal, and sticking to your budget is great! But if you end up purchasing a shed only because of its price, you will likely end up feeling disappointed with your purchase. For most homeowners, a shed is a relatively big commitment, and no one wants to replace their shed after only a few years. However, an inexpensive shed made with low-quality materials won’t last long. If you are set on a certain shed or type of shed, don’t settle for anything less. Wait until a sale or . a promotional event to make your purchase. It’s better to wait a little bit longer and be satisfied than to purchase immediately and regret your decision.

Buying The Wrong Size Shed

Aside from considering how many items you plan to store in your shed, you also need to consider which items you plan to store in your shed! For example, if you only plan on storing small items such as tools and gardening equipment in your shed, a smaller shed with a single door will do. However, if you plan on storing your lawnmower or other bulky equipment in your shed, you will want to make sure you buy a shed with double doors and enough room to maneuver your lawnmower in and out of the shed. If you miss out on this crucial consideration, you may end up frustrated every single time you go to take your lawnmower, ATV, or other vehicles out of your shed!

Not Building A Proper Foundation

A proper foundation is one of the best ways to ensure your shed lasts. Some shed companies will build a foundation for you. Others will ensure your property is leveled and set up and ready to go for your shed. Make sure you do your research and decide how you would like future shed spot in your yard to be prepared before you bring your new shed home. Ensuring your shed has a proper foundation may take a bit more effort on your part, but it will help save you lots of time and money in the future.

Ignoring/Forgetting Local Permits

Did you know that many areas require you to have a permit before building or buying a shed? Before buying any portable building you should be aware of the permit requirements of your municipality. Sometimes, permit requirements depend on the size of your building. Make sure you know the requirements of your area to avoid fines. If you are unsure about the permit requirements in your area, ask the company you are working with to help you avoid potential legal problems.

Ready For Your Own Portable 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!

“It was a pleasure working with confident and qualified people. The workmanship
and materials are second to none…I would recommend Classic Buildings to anyone
who requires a building for storage, recreation or whatever your needs are.”

– Mike Dinello, a Classic Buildings Customer – More Testimonials Here!

Ready To Find Your Dream Shed?

Sources:

www.doityourself.com / www.classicbuildingsales.com / www.thespruce.com