There are many things to consider when shopping for a backyard shed. Of course, price and size are at the top of the list, followed by the materials or colour. But you shouldn’t stop there!
In fact, your garden shed, also called a storage shed, is an investment that should last you between 15 and 20 years. A little planning is therefore required to avoid buyer’s remorse in the years to come.
Here are a few points to consider as you begin your search.
The Permit
Before you start building, check with your municipality to find out what size limits must be adhered to. Generally, in Quebec, installing a shed does not require obtaining a construction permit beforehand so long as the structure is no larger than 120 square feet. However, there are usually certain restrictions regarding placement such as minimum distances from lot lines.
The Size
When shopping for outdoor storage, begin by thinking about what you will be keeping there. How you plan to use the space will determine how much space you need. Is it only for storing garden tools? Or will it be an extension of the garage, extra room to put away all your sports equipment?
You will likewise need to consider your lot’s dimensions as its surface area must guide your choice: An oversized shed in a tiny yard will look unbalanced.
The Style
Outdoor buildings are not only utilitarian; they should equally be aesthetically pleasing and adequately complement the house’s overall appearance. No one wants a structure that stands out—negatively—from the landscaping!
A good workaround, for example, is to choose a shed that matches your home’s architectural style, whether it be modern, traditional, or country. Garden shed manufacturing companies often offer similar types of materials to those used in residential construction. You could also incorporate a specific feature from your residence into the shed, like an arch or the window frame colour.
The Types of Cladding
There are four main types:
- Wood-framed sheds clad in vinyl or aluminum have a long-lasting, hard-wearing, and attractive shell. The roof is covered in asphalt or metal shingles. Inside, it is a simple matter to install shelves and hooks to maximize storage. This option is usually the costliest, depending on the selected finishes, such as windows or gutters. Additionally, it is the greenest as the structure will both last and look good the longest.
- Galvanized steel sheds come in a wide range of prices and are very easy to maintain; however, this material is less weather resistant and not particularly visually appealing.
- Plastic sheds are quite popular: they are simple to assemble and even to move (to a new home, for example). They are not, unfortunately, thought to be very pleasing to the eye and sun exposure can lead to discolouration or even warping over time. Just like the steel option, plastic garden sheds are harder to customize for indoor storage.
- Finally, vinyl sheds are appreciated for their ease of maintenance and ability to withstand moisture and sun damage; nevertheless, they are vulnerable to colder temperatures. Sturdier than plastic models, this kind of shed is readily modified by adding shelves and hooks, and can even be extended to meet your needs as they evolve over the years.
Be aware that a well-maintained yard with storage can be an asset when it comes to selling a home. Make sure your garden shed harmonizes with the rest of your landscaping for the best results!