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During the housing boom of the first decade of the 21st century, American homeowners began adding more livable outdoor space, as part of their home remodeling/construction projects. One of the most popular additions has been to add an outdoor kitchen. But this popular room is not the only space getting all of the attention. Outdoor storage buildings, or sheds, have been used for centuries as a way to store tools, food and materials for American households. Outdoor storage sheds not only serve a practical purpose; they have become a fashionable yard accessory and a stylish outdoor fixture. Types of Sheds Not all sheds are created equal. There are several types of sheds on the market, each of which serve a variety of uses. Garden Sheds: As its name suggests, garden sheds serves as a storage hub for all of the items needed to nurture and cultivate a garden. Homeowners usually build and locate garden sheds near, or next, to their gardens. Usual storage components include shelves for pots, fertilizers, dirt, tools, and other gardening materials. The durability, or strength, of the shed isn't as important as other types of sheds. Tools Sheds: Every self-respecting handyman/woman needs to have a place to store the all-important tools. Tool sheds typically have shelves, benches, chests, and hanging areas. Some tool sheds have enough space to house the owner's shop, which can be used to work on home remodeling projects. For this reason, having a strong foundation is especially important for this type of shed. Barn Sheds: On the larger side of shed types, you'll find barn sheds. The average, run-of-the-mill barn shed can accommodate various farm-related tools and equipment, including rakes, animal feed, small vehicles, etc. Barn sheds usually house expensive equipment and machinery so a strong locking device is imperative. This type of shed must also have a very strong foundation, as well as a very durable exterior. Shed Finishes In addition to varying types, sheds come in a variety of exterior finishes. Stronger finishes feature higher sticker prices. Steel Sheds: Steel Sheds are among the most rugged storage buildings available today. You'll find heavy-duty metal steel shed finishes used in construction sites, farms, areas with harsh climates, and in the yards of homes that require maximum shed asset security. In addition to offering a strong, durable exterior, steel sheds also have the added benefit of color customization, as they can be primed and painted to whatever color you desire. Aluminum Sheds: Aluminum sheds provide you with an affordable alternative. Aluminum sheds are usually purchased by homeowners, and thus, mostly found outside of homes. They usually come factory-painted and can be purchased as shed kits in major department and home improvement stores. While aluminum sheds can be used in various climates and environments, they are best suited for temperate climates. Wooden Sheds: Wooden sheds are among the most visually appealing sheds available. They come in a variety of styles, shapes and sizes. Because of their highly customizable, custom traits, they are among the most expensive options. They are mostly purchased by homeowners. Vinyl Sheds: Among the most affordable options, you'll find vinyl sheds. This shed finish is used exclusively for homes. They come with factory-applied colors and cannot be customized. Like aluminum sheds, vinyl varieties are best suited for temperate climates. Foundations Structurally speaking, a shed is built like a small house. A small house, or any house for that matter, requires a solid foundation. The same applies to sheds. Depending on what type of building storage you need, you'll want to consider the appropriate foundation type. You can build your foundation from wooden beams, concrete block, poured concrete, or other materials. You can also opt to not have a foundation and simply plop your shed directly onto the ground, although this is not advisable. Selecting the Right Shed
When you finally decide to purchase, or build, an outdoor storage shed, you should consider how much you need to store, how heavy your storage will be and what type of environment you reside in. If you plan appropriately and do all the proper leg work, before you know it, you'll have the shed of your dreams in your very own back yard.
Bob Fischer covers stories on outdoor storage sheds, in addition to information on storage buildings.
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