If you want to install a shed in your garden, there is a lot that you should consider. It takes more than ordering a shed or building one for you to have this shed in place. You have to think about where you will place the shed and how this works concerning zoning rules. Talking to the relevant authorities goes a long way in this case. Below are some of the determinants that come into play during the planning phase:
Considerations
What are your needs? People install garden sheds (more information about garden cabins) for various reasons. Some do so in search of more storage space; others want working stations while others want to build outdoor saunas. There are many ways in which you can enjoy a shed, and you probably have an idea in mind. The next phase is to think about this idea and see if the shed can meet this need.
Next, what are the building regulations concerning such sheds? In some places, you are free to start working on extensions without approval from the local authority. But you may find that you need a permit to build or install a shed on your land. You should consult the local relevant authorities to ensure that you stay out of legal trouble.
Also, what are the physical characteristics of the chosen site? This means that you should look into the soil, vegetation in the area, boundaries, and other such factors. For example, if you place the shed under a tree, you might not get enough light in the room. And this can significantly affect how much joy you derive from this space. Look into the soil on the site and decide whether it can support a load.
What matters most to you when it comes to the appearance of the shed? In some ways, this space is an extension of the main house. As such, you may want it to reflect the same, and you should work on this. You could also choose to have it as a standalone building. In this case, you can make it the focal point of your outdoors by positioning it strategically.
How will the erection of the shed affect your agreement with your neighbours? Many people live in places where homeowners' associations set the rules by which they abide. In this case, you would need to table your plans and hope that you get the approval. This permit should be in addition to what you would get from the local authority. It helps to read up on what the shed should look like regarding placement and size. In this way, you will have an easier time convincing the committee that the addition will not be an eyesore.
The Design
After making the above considerations, you should now think about the design of the shed. Luckily, you do not have to make one yourself as there are reputable manufacturers that can do this for you. Alternatively, you could put your carpentry skills to the test and see what comes of it. Note that the amount of money spent on the shed will ultimately depend on its size and the finishes. That said, here is how you should go about this.
Site Selection
The placement of the shed is an essential factor as it affects how much you can enjoy this space. For example, if you placed it near a busy road and used the space for office work, it would not work. What should you consider?
Firstly, you should think about the boundaries of your property, which you should map out by surveying your outdoors. Use this information to consider how the shed would fit with easements and fence lines in place. You do not want to end up installing the shed somewhere only to find that you did so atop a utility line. Also, the placement could be against the law and you might end up having to move it.
Secondly, how easy will it be to access the shed once it is in place? Also, how will impediments in the yard affect the construction or installation process? You need to select a location that you can get to with ease. It also helps to think about the site conditions throughout the year. It could be dry now, but that may not be the case during the colder months. When installing a shed, especially a wooden one, you must ensure that you protect it from the elements.
What are the relevant laws as to the installation of sheds? It helps to know if you are on the right side of the law. Also, making that call will enable you to figure out if a utility line is at risk in the event of installation. With this in mind, also consider any rules in your neighbourhood on the same.
What is the soil type in the site, and how will this work in supporting the shed? If you conduct the installation at the bottom of a hill, you are likely to suffer from moisture issues. That means that the longevity of the structure will be at risk owing to exposure to mould and mildew. If the slope is too steep, it helps to have a solid foundation in place. That way, the structure can enjoy some support and remain stable even under constant use.
The beauty of the structure should matter. After all, it will likely affect the look of the neighbourhood. You want to install something that will add value to your home, instead of lowering its resale value.
The size of the space will depend on how you wish to use it now and in the future. If you want storage space, think about the number of materials that you will have in it. Figure out the organisation that would be in play and then use this to calculate the required dimensions. If you want a space to work, you need room as well as privacy.
After considering all these, you can then think of future connections that you would like to make. If you want water in the space, how easy is it to connect it? How about electricity? If you are building the shed from scratch, how can you ferry the materials to the site? Think about these things. They may seem trivial, but they will affect the success of this venture.
All the best!
