Factors To Consider Before Building A Shed On Your Property
Adding a shed to your property can be a transformative experience. It’s a structure where you can keep outdoor equipment, increase your home’s storage capacity, and more. These outdoor enclosures have many benefits, but when you erect a shed on your property, there are a lot of factors you need to think about before you start building.
Before you build a shed, know your local building codes and zoning ordinances, as your community may have very strict rules for outdoor structures. Consider the shed’s location regarding potential flooding, wind, and sun damage. Ensure the area is level, and pick the right materials for your climate. Think about your goals and planned use for the structure, and consider electrical and drainage needs.
If you’re seriously thinking about adding a shed to your yard, there’s a lot to consider and before you buy materials or even select a location, you need to understand some variables. There’s a chance you might not even be able to legally build a shed where you live. To save yourself from headaches and mistakes, read below for some factors to consider before you build a shed.
14 Factors To Consider Before Building A Shed
1. Budget
A shed is a costly investment. Even budget-friendly versions are often more than $1,000 when installation is included. Fancier and modern types of sheds with glass windows, power, and air conditioning can cost more than $10,000. Before you take any action, think about your budget.
Once you have a number in mind, you can start to source materials and factor in the cost of a foundation, potential labor costs, and other hidden fees associated with building these outdoor structures. Like all major home improvement projects, building a shed can go over budget, so make sure you have a bit of wiggle room in your final calculations.
2. Goals And Desires
Once you have a budget, it's time to get a firm grasp on your exact plans and goals for the shed. It can be used for storage, or it can be a climate-controlled space where you conduct many DIY projects. Your plans and desires will often dictate the size, style, and electrical use, so make sure you know exactly what you want to use the shed for so you buy the correct materials and build the right structure for your needs.
3. Local Zoning Laws And Building Codes
Another very important factor to understand is your local laws. More specifically, you need to familiarize yourself with your municipality’s zoning laws and building codes. In many regions, there are strict limitations on sheds, including how large they can be, what they can be used for, and where on the property they can be located. You also must ensure the structure is built safely and up to code. Each area has its own specific rules, which means you must understand what is allowed and not allowed, in your neighborhood.
4. Flood Zones
If you live in a low-lying area, you need to think about flooding when you build a shed. Never build one in a low-lying area that’s prone to flooding. Take the time to locate the driest parts of your yard, and build your shed accordingly. If you build a shed in low-lying area in your yard, it will not only be prone to flooding, but the constantly wet ground can also affect its structural integrity.
5. Property BoundariesÂ
Always confirm your property boundaries before adding a permanent structure, such as a fence or shed, to your yard. Sheds are difficult (and sometimes impossible) to move. Give yourself a few feet of a buffer between the shed and the property line, if possible. Extra space ensures there won’t be tension with the neighbor, and it will make it easier to build a fence in the future if you choose to do so.
6. Soil Type And Foundation Needs
Building a heavy structure requires different tools and techniques depending on the ground it's built upon. Some soil, such as clay, are relatively unstable and expand and contract with moisture levels. Clay soil has different structural and foundation needs than gravel or sandy soil. Once you know the type of earth, you can plan accordingly to ensure you build a stable shed.
7. Orientation
For some people, the direction a shed faces is strictly about aesthetics, and sometimes it’s an afterthought. Keep in mind that once your shed is built, you can’t easily adjust it. Consider how light will hit the shed throughout the day, as well as factors such as privacy and ease of access.Â
8. Wind
Wind is another natural factor to consider, especially if you live in an area with strong winds or the potential for severe weather. If you live in a windy city, try to find a place in your yard that is sheltered and less exposed. Choosing a safe location can help your shed last much longer.
9. Trees And Nearby Vegetation
Falling trees can damage your home, a structure that’s far more resilient than a shed. Don’t be surprised if a single large, broken branch destroys your expensive shed. Whenever possible, avoid placing a shed directly underneath large trees. As well, the area around your shed should be cleared. When plants start growing alongside it or climbing up the walls, it can damage the structure.
10. Ease Of Access
If you plan to use your shed regularly, place it in a convenient location. Ensure it’s easy to access in all weather (including when the ground is wet or covered in snow). The more conveniently it's located, the more often you’re likely to use it.
11. DIY Versus A Professional
Another question to ask yourself when deciding to build a shed on your property is whether you will do all the work yourself, hire a professional, or do a combination of the two. Hiring a trusted professional can take a lot of stress out of the process, but it will also cost you significantly more. Budget accordingly, and ensure you are confident in your skills before undertaking this project without the help of an experienced professional.
12. Electrical Needs
Some sheds require no power, while others need a significant amount. As you start planning, figure out the power it will require and how you will get the electricity to the shed. Electrical work can often be one of the most costly aspects of building a shed, as it can require digging and the help of a certified electrician.
13. Drainage
Every structure needs proper drainage around it, including a shed. As you build the foundation and the shed itself, include drainage around the structure. Drainage prevents flooding and will increase the lifespan of the shed.
14. Material Type
You can construct a shed out of nearly any building material, from wood to metal to brick. Each type has a different shelf life and price tag. Some materials work better for certain projects and in specific regions. If you live in a wet climate, wood might not be the best option. Brick is strong and can help insulate a space, but it can also be quite costly. Build with the best materials for your climate so your shed lasts for as long as possible.
Wrapping Up Factors To Consider When Building A Shed
Building a shed is a major undertaking, especially if you plan on doing all the work yourself. Before you start shopping for materials and digging holes, there are many variables to consider. Read and follow your local zoning laws and building codes to ensure the structure you build is legal.
Take the time to understand your intended uses for the shed so you can build the perfect one for your needs. Other factors to consider include wind protection, soil type, and building materials. When creating a budget for the project, include the costs associated with electrical needs and any professional help you may require.
Related guides:
Tom Gaffey is an expert writer who currently resides in Washington D.C. Tom has a passion for real estate and home improvement writing, as well as travel and lifestyle writing. He lived the last twelve years in Hawaii where he worked closely with luxury resorts and event planners, mastering his knowledge of aesthetics and luxury products. This is where he found his passion for home improvement and a keen interest in DIY projects. Currently, Tom resides in Washington D.C, and also working on his debut fiction novel.
More by Tom Gaffey
