10 Jan 3 things you should think about before buying a shed

Last year, we listed 6 things you should know before buying a shed.

That’s stilla must-read post (see what we did there?) before you buy a shed … and here’s the list without the detail:

1. Local council rules

2. Weather conditions

3. Foundations

4. Positioning

5. Design

6. Purpose

Now we’re going to take a look from a slightly different angle, with three things that you should at least think about before deciding to buy a shed.

1. Is a shed right for your needs?

We’ve got a wide range of sheds, made from either Western red cedar or the UV-stabilised polypropylene of the Keter range.

The different sizes and configurations mean that there’s (at least) one suitable for everyone’s garden or backyard storage needs.

But what if you want to use it for more than storage? Our larger sheds – including the Master 8×12, the Willow 12×8, the Chatswood 8×16, and the Hollydean 16×8 – are ideal if you want to work in your shed, as well as storing stuff.

Now, though, we’ve got a different sort of shed user. Over the past few years, more and more people have been using sheds as home offices, hobby studios, and even relaxing retreats.

That’s why we’ve introduced the Stilla cedar studios range.

So, if you’re looking for a work space, creative space, or space to escape to, you might find that a studio is right for you.

Having said that, you might want a shed, too! Consider a studio for your work and a shed for storage – the best of both worlds!

2. How important is appearance?

We covered this, to some extent, under both Positioning and Design in our 6 things you should know post. As we said there, the appearance of a shed will be far more important to some than others.

So make that call right off the top. If it’s down the back of the yard and only you will look at it, fair enough (although we’d suggest it should still look good), but if it’s going to be prominent, give it a bit more consideration.

One of the great things about Western red cedar is that it looks fantastic in its natural state (and, being wood, looks right at home among trees and plants).

Another great thing is that it’s very easy to work with, including providing an excellent base for all types of paints and stains.

Once you’ve decided on the preferred positioning of your shed, there are other things that can have an impact on the way it looks, particularly from the aspect you (and others) will most often view it.

For example, the placement and type of windows and doors, whether you have a step or a ramp up to the entry, and whether you want to landscape around the shed with some flowerbeds or low-profile bushes, should all be planned before you get a shed that matches your requirements.

3. Are you comfortable doing it yourself?

We’ve spent years refining our products to make them easy and enjoyable to assemble.

The panels fit together with minimal ‘encouragement’ or muscle power and a lot of our customer feedback tells us how simple and clear our assembly instructions are.

However … just because our sheds are made for DIY, don’t feel that you have to do it yourself if you’re not completely comfortable doing so.

Data suggests that about half of all suburban sheds are owner built, although that also includes bespoke sheds which aren’t built from kits.

If you need a concrete slab laid, there might be more reason to call in someone with more experience. Of course, if you need plumbing or electricity, you have to get qualified and certified tradespeople to do those things.

Keep in mind that we want you to enjoy creating your shed, as well as using it once it’s been built, and if doing it yourself is something you’ll definitely feel good about, we’ve got you covered.

But if it’s a bit of a challenge and you feel a bit unsure, don’t feel any pressure to go out of your comfort zone. Save yourself potential headaches and get someone else to do it. After all, it will be easy and quick for anyone with even a little experience building things.

Whatever you need – or if you’ve still got some decisions to make – let us know and we’ll be more than happy to help.