An Essential Guide To Buying An Outdoor Shed

Dreaming of increased storage, a hobby workshop, or even a backyard oasis? Adding an outdoor shed can make those possibilities a reality. Before visiting your local home improvement center, however, pump the brakes.

Choosing and installing the ideal shed for your needs deserves careful consideration. Rushing in without a plan wastes money and leaves you with a poorly placed shed that falls short of expectations.

Instead, let this essential guide walk you through the key steps for choosing the perfect shed to meet your needs. Whether you need farm sheds or an extra workspace, the journey starts here.

Determine The Shed’s Purpose

First, think about how you plan to use your outdoor shed. Common uses include:

Storage for lawn equipment, bikes, seasonal items, etc.
A workshop for hobbies and DIY projects
Potting shed for gardening supplies and tools
Pool house for storing floaties, towels, etc.
Child’s playhouse

Defining the primary purpose will dictate the size, features, placement, and other purchase considerations. Be realistic about what you’ll store there now and in the coming years.

Choose The Right Size

The uses defined above provide a good starting point for figuring out the needed capacity. Once you’ve determined everything you want to keep inside, measure storage bins, shelves, and larger items to calculate the total area and dimensions.

Remember to account for the following:

Walkways so you can access all contents
Work surfaces like potting tables or workbenches
Windows, outlets, or other features per your shed’s purpose

Leave yourself some buffer room for future needs. It’s easier to have unused space than outgrow a shed quickly.

Select Placement On Your Property

When installing an outdoor shed, there are ideal locations to maximize function and aesthetics:

Level ground for stability, making sure water won’t pool around the foundation
Near your home for convenient access
Visible from kitchen or living areas for safety/security
Not too close to property lines or fences to allow airflow
Receives some sunlight to limit moisture issues

Additionally, check local permit requirements on detached structures. Placement must adhere to setbacks and easements.

Compare Outdoor Shed Materials

You have several material options, each with unique benefits:

Wood sheds can match home aesthetics but require frequent staining/sealing
Vinyl sheds hold up well to weather and require little maintenance
Metal sheds are durable options that deter pests/rodents
Brick or concrete block sheds are high-cost but extremely sturdy

Also, assess climate factors like heavy snow loads that add stress.

Determine If You Need Electricity And Other Extras

While simplest to build, an Amish-style shed with no electrical can limit functionality. Electrification allows you to:

Have interior lighting and outlets for tools/equipment
Add climate control for an insulated, year-round workspace
Install security features like motion-sensor floodlights

Other popular options include:

Shelving systems to optimize organization
Windows for natural light, ventilation, and visibility
Loft space above for additional storage
Ramps/extra-wide doors to accommodate lawnmowers, ATVs, etc.

Having a clear purpose will help you evaluate which extras offer worthwhile benefits.

Assess Shed Foundation Options

A proper foundation is crucial for structural integrity and preventing moisture damage. Farm sheds have three main foundation types:

Slab Foundation: This is concrete poured on leveled, compacted ground. It’s the most expensive but provides an extremely stable base.
Skid Foundation: This provides layers of cinder blocks, gravel, and wood framing, making the shed portable to relocate if needed
Pier Foundation: Concrete piers are installed below ground to support floor framing. This allows airflow under the shed—suitable for uneven or sloped sites

Weigh cost, effort of installation, and mobility to pick what works best. Professional installation is recommended for foundations.

Choose Between Custom, Kit, Or Prefab Shed

You have a few shed construction options:

Custom Shed: This offers bespoke design and building per your exact specifications. Allows for total personalization but is most costly and time-intensive
Shed Kit: This is DIY-friendly with precut lumber and all materials provided. It offers flexibility at a lower cost than custom sheds.
Prefab (Or Modular) Shed: These assembled sheds can be delivered completely constructed. It’s ready to use but less customizable.

Decide based on your budget, build capabilities, and how personalized you want the structure to be.

Install Properly For Safety And Longevity

While DIY shed assembly is appealing for cost savings, complex foundations, and structural work is best left to professionals. Prioritize safety and compliance with permits.

Additionally:

Seal any cracks and use caulking around doors, windows, and trim to prevent moisture damage
Consider gutter extensions to divert rainwater away from the shed
Stain/seal outdoor wood sheds every 1-2 years

Proper installation and care will help your backyard farm sheds stand the test of time.

Final Thoughts

Purchasing an outdoor shed requires forethought to meet your needs and properly suit your property. Following this guide will equip you to consider key decision factors—from intended use, ideal placement, extra features, and construction methods to lifetime maintenance needs. Weighing all aspects thoughtfully upfront ensures your new shed improves backyard function and enjoyment for years to come.