Top 5 Commonly Asked Questions When Buying a Shed

Purchasing a shed can be a significant investment, so it pays to make the right choice first time. Finding the right one can be easier than you think, if you ask the right questions. Read this guide from WhatShed to help you on your search.

1. What are the three most important factors to bear in mind when choosing a shed?

Size is an important consideration – you will want a shed that is large enough for your needs but won’t take up too much space in the garden. Price is another important factor – set a budget and stick to it, but don’t make the mistake of simply buying the cheapest one you can find. Look for ones that offer extra value for money by way of extended warranties, and factor in the cost of applying preservative re-treatments for those that need it. A third aspect to consider is security – does the shed already have a lock or alarm system? If security is of prime concern to you then a windowless structure may be a good choice as it prevents passersby from seeing if anything valuable is stored inside.

2. What is the most common mistake people make when choosing sheds?

People often ignore floors. Ground moisture is one of the biggest threats to a wooden shed, as it can soon find its way into timbers that are in contact with the surface, causing rot to spread. This affects the structural integrity of the building as a whole. Check that the structure you are buying already has a floor, and ideally pressure-treated floor bearers that will lift it above ground level. If a wooden shed doesn’t have an integral floor then make sure that you buy a suitably-sized base with it, and don’t forget to factor this into the overall cost.

3. I want to decorate my shed – what do I need to know about paint and applying it?

We always recommend that your structure is painted or stained, as this gives it added protection against UV rays that can fade or damage wood. You will need a product that has been specially designed for outdoor use, and you will also need to know if your shed is made of rough-sawn or smooth-planed timbers. If you can run your finger lightly over the surface without the fear of splinters, then it is smooth-planed. Keep an eye on the weather too, as many modern paints and stains are water-based, which means that they should only be used when the temperature rises above 10°C. Many modern paints and stains can be spray-applied, saving you time. Watch out for any wind carrying a fine-coloured mist onto surrounding areas.

4. How do we maintain our shed, and what happens if we don’t?

Maintaining a wooden structure is very important due to the threat of wet rot. Some sheds will need treating with a high-quality wood preserver immediately when they are installed, or even during pre-installation, so always pay attention to the care instructions. Most will need re-treating on an annual basis, but some sheds that have been given an initial pressure treatment or tanalisation will specify that there is no need to treat them during the period of their warrantry, which is typically 15 years. This is because the initial application forces preservative deep into the heart of the timber, giving it long-lasting protection. Even so, we would still advise the inspection of the shed on an annual basis, and the application of wood preserver if there is any sign of dampness or rot in the wood.

5. I want to write/work in my shed – what do I need to know when choosing one?

Sheds can be a great place to work or write in, whether for business purposes or to practise a hobby. Firstly you will need to find one that is large enough to house the items you require, such as a desk and chair or machinery, and you should be able to move around in it comfortably, so look for one that has a tall eaves height as well as a tall ridge height. Natural light is essential if you plan to spend prolonged periods of time writing or reading in your shed, as artificial light can strain the eyes. We also recommend finding a structure that has windows you can open, especially if you are going to be using machinery that creates a humid environment. Finally, consider installing a secure key-operated lock or alternatively put a strong padlock in place.

Don’t forget to check WhatShed reviews before you take the plunge – these bring you in-depth, independent reviews that can provide you with the honest answers to all your questions. Visit whatshed.co.uk

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