Expert Advice on Home Improvement TV Host of Emmy®-Nominated Today's Homeowner® and home expert for The Weather Channel

Choosing The Right Storage Shed For You

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Even in today’s larger homes, space can be hard to find. With most people staying in their homes longer, a storage shed is the perfect solution. A storage shed is affordable, it fits along the side of the house or out in the yard, and it can provide you with more than just a place to store your stuff. But there are a few things to consider before adding a shed to your property:

SPACE

If you have the space, you will fill it. It is better to plan for a little more space than to buy your shed and realize you still need more room. If you think you’ll want to expand the size of your shed later on, be sure to choose a location that can accommodate a larger shed. In this case, you may also want to consider a storage shed that is expandable with extension kits. Storage sheds that offer extension kits usually can be retrofitted at a later date if you find that you need more storage space.

Some storage sheds allow for overhead space within the trusses, which will give you extra storage area. Also consider shelf space, not just floor space. Many of today’s modern storage sheds feature customizable shelving and tool-rack systems, allowing you to maximize your space and maintain a clean, clutter-free workspace.

LOCATION

When selecting the location for your shed, be sure that the shed will fit well within the desired space, allowing for ample room to maneuver items in and out of the shed.

Keep in mind that your shed must be built on a level surface. If the spot where you want to place your storage shed is not level, the shed will not assemble correctly. Most manufacturers recommend a cement patio, a space with a compacted road base or creating a pad with compacted sand or gravel. Your shed is meant to last a lifetime, so provide the proper foundation for it before you start to build.

The ground should be firm and free of leaves and other debris, which can cause the shed to deteriorate and become unstable. It should also be set up away from areas that can collect standing water after a storm. It’s also a good idea to make sure your sprinkler system won’t hit the shed. This is especially important for sheds made from wood or metal as water can be the most damaging to these materials.

Before assembling your shed, consult all building codes, as well as city and county ordinances, to ensure that you do not require a building permit to construct your storage shed.

TYPES OF SHEDS

It used to be that sheds were only made from either expensive and high maintenance wood, or flimsy tin or metal. Materials of construction for sheds today have evolved to include the use of HDPE (High Density Polyethylene), which eliminates the weaknesses of wood and metal.

• Wood is the most common material for sheds and is the first one most consumers think about for a shed. Wood is quite expensive and requires significant upkeep, including painting and combating rot and termites.
• HDPE is a great choice for the homeowner who wants a low maintenance shed. HDPE storage sheds like those from Lifetime Products feature sturdy, steel-reinforced, double-wall polyethylene construction and are more durable than most vinyl and sheet metal sheds. Today’s molded HDPE sheds often feature an attractive, traditional design and are generally the best value for homeowners.
• Vinyl is relatively maintenance-free and more affordable than wood, but lacks the strength and durability of HDPE. However, vinyl sheds are significantly more durable than metal sheds. A floor may not be included in a vinyl shed and many models are not expandable.
• Sheet Metal is a less expensive option for the homeowner willing to settle for lower quality. Metal sheds are a good choice for homeowners on a limited budget who may not need a long-term storage solution. Metal sheds also dent easily and repairs can be more costly than on HDPE or wooden sheds.

CONSTRUCTION

Aside from materials, pay careful attention to how the storage shed is constructed. This includes the reinforcement of the walls, the pitching and reinforcement of the roof, and the quality and availability of durable flooring.

• Sturdy, Steel-Reinforced Construction is a strong feature to look for in any shed. A solid HDPE shed is built with steel-reinforced dent-resistant, double-wall polyethylene panels. Steel trusses provide superior roof strength and the secure-fastened assembly ensures strength, stability and durability.
• A High-Pitched Roof provides protection from outdoor elements and a generous amount of headroom inside the shed. Without having to crouch down to enter or move around, the space can be used to stack boxes, park a riding lawn-mower or as a garden planting room. A steep roof also allows for quick drainage of rain and snow.
• Large Door Openings give you a durable and versatile entry into your storage shed. Larger door openings are perfect for easily pulling in a riding mower or accepting large patio furniture into the shed. Make sure the doors stay closed with an internal latching mechanism and are lockable from the outside with a padlock.
• High-Impact Flooring is designed to be shock resistant and easy to maintain. The floor should be resistant to oils, solvents and stains and have a slip-resistant surface.

ACCESSORIES

There are many accessories to consider when choosing the right storage shed. Look for sheds that come with expandable built-in shelving and peg boards or tool holders that keep tools and supplies tidy. Many of the newer HDPE sheds feature shatter-proof windows that open and lock and also include multiple skylights that help create a fresh and pleasant atmosphere. Screened or slatted vents allow for airflow while keeping out pests and rodents.

It is also nice to consider a shed that gives you room to grow. Newer sheds may feature expansion kits, so you can enlarge your shed to fit your growing needs for storage.