Storage sheds, while utilitarian in nature doesn't mean it has to have the appearance of such. The storage shed can be a structure to add character or a focal point to the landscape. There are many styles, sizes and options available so get something that not only is useful, but something that looks great in the backyard.
Some of the more popular storage shed styles are lean to's and the traditional gable roof design. Lean to storage sheds are popular because they can be built against your house, or fencing reducing the footprint required. Gable roof designs are popular because of the truss storage they offer, as well as the overall look of the shed.
While these are the two most popular storage shed styles, don't confine yourself to any particular style, as there are a ton of beautiful and creative designs to choose from - or co-design your storage shed, customizing it with options like ramps, lighting, maintenance free siding and other upgrades.
The thought process of what you actually intend to put in your storage shed is one of the most important. Thinking about this ahead of time will save any disappointment later. If the storage shed is to small this will lead to cluttering and frustration for you. Also you may need to consider the items that you intend to purchase later that you would want to add to the storage shed, a new patio set or a snow blower that will all need it's own storage space.
Storage Shed Features
There are certain elements of a storage shed that you're going to want, regardless of its overall style. If it's truly going to be used for storage it needs to be functional. This always starts with making sure it's big enough for its intended use. Take note of all the items you're going to want to store - and then take some wooden stakes and string and go in the backyard and physically stake out the size you were thinking of. With your stakes in the ground walk around in the space and imagine where things might go.
Don't forget about shelving and overhead
storage in the process, make the utmost of your space. Is the size you're thinking of
going to work for what you need? If not, think bigger in size until it does.
For information, pricing and to customize your storage shed online, visit Summerwood.com.
With the correct size selected - you then need to turn back to the
items being stored. Do you have a ride on lawnmower, bikes or other
large items that need to come in and out on a regular basis? Options
such as a ramp, double or multiple doors can make this easier and
less backbreaking.
Depending on where you live and your climate, as well as the items being
stored - you may want to insulate and heat your storage shed. You don't
need a furnace; even just insulating it will make a huge difference. Many customers add a
simple (and safe), electric baseboard style heater. Set to the
lowest position, with an insulated storage shed it will keep things well
above freezing all winter long and be very cost efficient.
Security can also be a concern if you're going to be storing valuables
in your storage shed - make sure you select appropriate doors and
windows. Deadbolts and double or triple pane windows make things far
more secure, as does lighting - motion detection is best. If you have a
home alarm, speak to them about adding the storage shed into the existing
security system - it's easy and won't cost much.
Keeping the Shed Organized
Your going to want to be able to move around and find things in your storage shed, so make sure you build in storage elements like shelving, hanging hooks, ladders to get into the roof storage (if applicable). We all know the frustration of not being able to find what we are looking for, so implementing things that will make this easy is crucial.
Often the things we need to store are seasonal, you really won't need
the lawnmower and snow blower at the same time so organizational skills
are utmost. It may be wise to keep your seasonal things grouped together
for easier accessibility. Sometimes even the smallest details thought
about ahead of time can make things so much easier in the future.
If you do this from the design stage - it's going to be a whole lot
easier to keep things neat and tidy - and it will save you a lot of
grief when you're looking for something in the future. If your sheds
large enough, consider partitioning the space to create zones -
Christmas items, bikes, lawnmowers, patio sets, can all have their own
sections, making finding and getting to things much easier. Multiple or
double doors can also make this easier, as can large windows or a
skylight to illuminates the space better, making things easier to get
to, and find.
Storage Sheds - Styles
Here are some of the more popular shed styles to help make style selection an easier task. Keep in mind that any of these styles can be completely customized with options and upgrades - use your imagination and create a storage shed that's going to serve your needs for years to come. It's easier to make sure of that now, rather then trying to fix a situation that's not quite working later on.
For information, pricing and to customize your storage shed online, visit Summerwood.com.
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