All About Storage Sheds for Your Yard

Create a shed that is both functional and visually pleasing

By Cathy McClellan

Photo by iStockphoto.com

With a little forethought, you can create a unique and useful storage shed that complements your home's design.

Function

Storage sheds serve a variety of needs. They are typically used to house outdoor tools and equipment such as lawnmowers, leaf blowers and garden supplies or other household supplies.

Benefits

Storage sheds free a home from clutter by allowing you to store extra or unused household items. Before storing items in your shed, make sure they're protected against moisture and temperature extremes.

Types

Storage sheds are available in a wide variety of styles, with many available as kits. Styles range from simple design to those that resemble a house or barn, with windows, window boxes and peaked roofs. Sheds can range in size from small 6-foot-by-8-foot units to as large as 12 feet by 26 feet.

Considerations

Steel-sided sheds are inexpensive but do tend to rust easily. Sheds made out of wood are strong but they do need to be treated against insects periodically. Vinyl sheds are lightweight but do not require maintenance as wood does and will not rust.

Location

Local regulations might dictate where a shed can be built -- even on your own property -- so as not to detract from the appearance of the neighborhood. In addition, some sheds may have to be placed a certain distance from a property line or from other buildings and easements.