Prefabricated sheds are quicker and cheaper to build, and building them is much less labour-intensive. We could all use some extra storage space, a relaxation area, or a workshop at home. A shed will provide that much-needed space. If you’re planning on building a shed and don’t know where to start, then read on for some tips for building a prefab shed.
Measure Your Space
Make sure you have enough space in your garden to have a shed. Figure out where you want to put it, and measure that space. Once you know where it’s going to go and how big your space is, you can start researching different prefab sheds.
Make Sure You Have Planning Permission
Before you buy a prefab shed, you should contact your local governing body and inquire about any requirements in terms of size. Depending on where you live, there will be different regulations and zoning requirements. If you want your prefab shed to be bigger, you may require a building permit. It’s always wise to check before you start building, as you may be asked to take it down if it doesn’t comply with local regulations.
Level the Ground
It doesn’t matter whether you chose to have a dirt floor, a concrete foundation or a wooden base, you need to level the ground before you begin to construct your prefab shed. It is important to build your shed on a level surface or it may be structurally unsound and make your shed susceptible to damage. Try to get this done before your prefab shed arrives, so you can get started on building it as soon as possible.
Calculate the Cost
You should already have a budget in mind before you set out to buy your prefab shed. While building a prefab shed may be a cheaper option, there are other costs you’ll have to take into consideration. If you don’t already have tools, you’ll need to head to the hardware store to buy some. But if someone else will be constructing for you, that will come at an additional cost. You’ll also have to factor in some of the long-term costs associated with having a shed. If you plan on using it as a recreational area or workspace, you’ll need to install electricity and run a water line. Other utilities include heating, insulation, and ventilation.
Most prefab sheds and be modified to suit your budget and taste, which brings me to my next point.
Choose the Style and Material of Your Prefab Shed
When you look up prefab sheds online, you’ll probably find that you’ll be able to modify the style and the colour. You can also choose specific dimensions to make it fit in the dedicated area of your garden. These sites will also have photographs of the prefab sheds, so you can see what they look like before you even construct one in your garden. You can even choose from wood or PVC siding and a shingle or metal roof.
Make Sure You Have All the Parts
There’s nothing worse than when you’ve almost finished constructing your shed and you find that you’re missing a screw. Before you begin to put your prefab shed together, take everything out of the packaging and make sure all the pieces and building materials are accounted for. It will likely come with an instruction manual that will tell you what parts are included. You should also check the individual parts for damage, as this could cause structural problems. Check that you have all the tools you need, and contact the manufacturer if you run into any problems.
Organise Your Shed’s Interior
You should decide early on what your shed’s purpose will be. Figure out what will you use it for and what you will put in there, so it doesn’t become a dumping ground for clutter. It could be used as a potting shed, a workshop, a storage space, or a playhouse. Depending on what you’re using it for, you’ll likely need to set up shelves, pegboard, and have space for storage boxes.
Getting a prefab shed is an investment. They are easy to put together for people who aren’t used to DIY and they will improve the look of your garden because you won’t have any tools or your lawnmower lying around. A shed can also increase the property value of your home. When looking for a prefab shed, make sure you check reviews fist to compare the quality.
Image Credits: Danielle Rice
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