Buying a shed can be an exciting step in organizing your property and maximizing your storage or workspace. You may want to take a little bit of time to plan for your backyard upgrade as there are a few important factors to consider to ensure the process goes smoothly. These considerations include zoning laws, site preparation, and proper placement. By following these guidelines, you can avoid future headaches and make sure your new shed is both functional and compliant with local regulations.
1. Understanding Zoning Laws and Permits
One of the first things to consider when buying a shed is whether you need a permit. Zoning laws vary by location and may have restrictions on the size, placement, and usage of structures like storage sheds, garages, or bunkies. Town and cities tend to have requirement in place while some rural areas do not. Check with your local municipality or planning office to find out if you need a permit before placing a shed on your property. Some areas may allow small, portable sheds without permits, while larger structures above a certain size might require approval.
Sometimes the permit office will require engineered drawings for the building in question. If that is the case, simply contact us for a copy of the drawings. We provide these free of charge for customers working on their permit applications.
2. Choosing the Right Location
Placement is key when setting up your shed. You’ll want to find a level area that’s accessible and dry. Avoid low-lying areas that collect water, as this can lead to water damage or even flooding inside your shed. Also, consider how much sunlight your shed will receive, especially if you plan to use it for gardening or other light-dependent activities.
Our sheds are built to withstand ground moisture. The 4x6 runners and floor joists are pressure treated (green treated) to ensure longevity and durability. You just want to avoid having the pressure treated wood submerged for extended periods of time (months at a time).
Think about access to the shed as well. Ensure there’s a clear path leading to it, and if you’re storing large items or using it as a workspace, make sure the location allows for easy movement in and out. Keep in mind any future expansion plans or landscaping projects that might affect the area around your storage shed.
3. Site Preparation
Once you’ve chosen the ideal spot for your shed, it’s time to prepare the site. Proper site preparation is crucial to ensure your shed remains stable and durable over time. The most common foundation options for sheds include gravel, concrete, or concrete blocks. Each option has its pros and cons, depending on your location and the size of your shed.
• Gravel is a great option for all shed sizes. It’s fairly easy to install and provides proper drainage to prevent water from pooling underneath the shed. For more details on how to build a gravel pad, check out our pad prep page.
• Concrete is a good option if the cost of the project is not a concern. One downside with a concrete pad is that water doesn't drain as well as with a gravel pad. You will want to ensure that the pad is angled very slightly to ensure water can drain off the pad to prevent long term pooling.
• Concrete Blocks are an option as well, but they may not provide the same durability as a gravel pad or a concrete pad as each block covers only a small ground area and is more prone to shifting. The advantage with concrete blocks is their economy. For instance, blocking a 10'x12' storage shed requires 8 blocks. This costs approximately $100. If longevity of your shed is the priority, you will want to consider installing a gravel pad.
Proper preparation ensures the longevity and stability of your shed for a hassle free ownership experience for years to come.
4. Consider Future Needs
While it’s easy to focus on the immediate need for extra storage, it’s also important to consider your future needs. Will your storage needs increase over time? Are you planning to use the shed for additional purposes like a workshop, office, or garden center? Thinking ahead can help you decide on the right size, layout, and features for your shed.
If you anticipate needing more space in the future, choose a larger shed or one with expandable features. You may also want to consider adding windows, shelving, or electrical outlets if your shed will serve multiple functions.
Conclusion
When purchasing a storage shed, make sure you’re aware of the zoning laws in your area, choose the right location, prepare the site properly, and consider your long-term needs. Taking the time to plan ahead will help ensure that your shed is functional, compliant with local regulations, and an asset to your property for years to come.
If you need help choosing the right shed for your needs or navigating permits and site preparation, feel free to reach out to us at Pine View Buildings. We’re here to help make your shed-buying experience easy and hassle-free!