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Building sheds could be a daunting task, and one which you might like to pass on to a professional. However, this is also a task, which if you could successfully accomplish, is certain to present a lasting impression for all. Therefore, before you buy your shed and shed building materials, devote some time to this guide and be equipped with pertinent information needed before you start on the construction of your shed.

Chart out your requirements

If building a shed is one of the jobs on your to do list, chances are that like other tasks, there is a specific requirement for accomplishing it. So before you start, precisely define the need. It could be for, say, storing agricultural yield, or maybe for simple household storage. Whatever your shed will be used for, the purpose definition would logically help work out the desired size of the shed. The second required component at this stage would be the available space. So with these two sides of the equation available, it should be possible to zero down on the practically possible shed size. However, before moving forward, do check the construction limits. Also while finalising on this aspect, visualise the constructed shed (of the worked out size) in proportion with the backyard and ask yourself some fundamental questions, such as: will the shed look right in the garden; is the door opening wide enough, in the correct place; how many windows, if any, do you need?

The look and appeal

If sheds are more than a junk repository for you, this aspect is definitely serious. There are a number of options in the sheds types and you have the authority to select, so why settle with the basic. For instance, the choice could be a beautiful wooden shed. Though in the long run it would require protection and maintenance, wooden sheds look natural and they tend to blend in with the rest of the garden. However if maintenance seems too bothering a clause, try the metal sheds. They are solid and resistant provided they are made from galvanized steel. Other options in this category include plastic sheds and vinyl sided sheds.

For the base of the shed, paving slabs could suffice or maybe you could fix in a concrete floor. Treated timber bearers are also an option in this category. Concrete blocks are the most economical and easiest to build. Moreover, the construction would be stable.

Other aspects that deserve attention include accessibility, shed placement, natural light availability, power, water and other basic requirements should be considered for your shed. Placement should be such that the shed does not render an awkward look to the adjoining house or construction, and careful space utilisation is pertinent as well.

Let's plan

With the two basic aspects worked out, planning assumes priority. A shed plan can be purchased, referred to from books, or could be self designed. The last option could be difficult, especially if you are an amateur in this field. A suggestion therefore is to move with a readymade plan, already tested and tried.

Check the codes

Local building codes and ordinances must be closely checked before starting on the construction of your shed. Some sheds, like other structures, require the requisite permits, in absence of which they could be considered illegal. The ordinances could include: clauses relevant to the total space that can be occupied; construction time restrictions, etc. Approval might take weeks, and with some Housing Associations there are various rules and regulations that need to be addressed before a shed can be erected. There is more to building sheds then meets the eye, but now that you have been forewarned, you are now forearmed.