Shed shopping

First, consider why you need a storage building. Will it be used solely as a place to park large equipment? Will you hang smaller tools in it? Does it need to function as an overflow workspace or potting shed?

For basic storage, an 8x8 shed will handle most smaller equipment needs. If you plan to hang shelves or want wall space for long-handled tools, choose a shed with a gable roof and taller walls. If headroom is more critical, barn-style buildings with gambrel roofs have shorter walls but higher ceilings. For large equipment or multitasking needs, there are 12x24, 14x21, and even 26x26 buildings.

The most direct route to getting extra storage is with a prefabricated unit -- either a kit you assemble on site, or one you order from the manufacturer that is delivered ready-to-use. The difference is time and money: the latter costs more, but you won't have to do it yourself.

Selecting a material

Prefabricated sheds come in three basic materials: aluminum, vinyl, and wood. Aluminum sheds, not to be confused with commercial-quality steel buildings, tend to be the least expensive and are easy to assemble; 8x8 kits start as low as $200 and go up from there. Generally fashioned from galvanized steel, they are prone to rust and are not an optimal material in windy climates (for an additional fee you can buy a wind load kit). If you live in a snowy climate and opt for metal, be sure to purchase a model that comes with a roof-reinforcement kit.

Vinyl is the least attractive of the three options, but what it lacks in good looks it makes up for in durability. Essentially maintenance-free, it will never need to be painted, stands up to all kinds of weather conditions, and the pieces are precision cut to fit perfectly for easy assembly. A typical 8x8 vinyl shed starts at about $450.

Wood has the advantage of being both good looking and durable, provided you opt for decay-resistant, pressure- treated wood like cedar or redwood and steer clear of untreated pine and fir that tend to rot. Gary Mitchell, owner of Super Sheds and Sunrooms, recommends plywood as the best material for the job.

"It's very strong, doesn't shrink, and won't go out of square from expansion and contraction," says Mitchell, who has been building storage sheds for 22 years. "Also, be sure the floor frame and support posts are pressure-treated wood rated for ground contact."

Comparing costs

Most companies offer two options for wood shed assembly. Partial kits include precut materials for the frame only with detailed instructions for purchasing and cutting the remaining materials on site. More cost effective, a 10x12 model runs around $700 with the cost for the floor, shingles, and paint added later. A total kit (that doesn't include paint) of the same dimensions would run around $1,500. A complete 12x24 shed costs in the $2,500 price range; a 16x24 kit costs as much as $3,500. Anything larger than that is generally too big to ship and requires working with a local company.

Before purchasing a shed, check local city and municipal codes for requirements regarding auxiliary buildings. Codes will vary from place to place, but generally storage units smaller than 10x10 can be built on concrete blocks placed on the ground. Larger sheds need to be supported by poured concrete footings dug to the frost line. Find a convenient, relatively flat location with easy access. "Most codes require sheds be placed at least 10 feet away from an existing structure, and that's good advice if you're planning on storing anything flammable," says Mitchell.

Shed accessories

Whatever style storage unit you choose, the following accessories can increase functionality and make using your new outbuilding a pleasant experience.

Windows and venting. Windows bring in more light, making it easier to locate stored items, especially in larger sheds. Windows can be opened to release odors. A more elaborate venting system may be in order when storing volatiles.

A ramp. This is especially helpful if you need to store mowers or tractors.

Enlarged doorways. A must for driving in wide tractors and riding mowers. In larger sheds it's a good idea to have the doors located at the center of the structure, making it easier to see and access items.

Paint. On wood buildings a nice paint finish not only helps a storage unit blend in, but also it will extend its life. "The best way to protect a shed and your investment is with primer and good paint just like you'd use on your house," says Gary Mitchell.

Finding a shed

A good place to start is your local home improvement store where you can see assembled examples of storage buildings in various styles and materials. Most centers work with a variety of companies that offer kits for sale. You can also order storage buildings directly online. Visit the following Web sites for information about all types and sizes of storage sheds:

Arrow Storage Buildings (specializes in metal and vinyl): www.arrowsheds.com

Bulldog Building Systems: 800/337-9683

Handy Home Products (wood sheds only): 800/221-1849, www.handyhome.com

ester Building Systems (wood buildings and limited vinyl): lesterbuildingsystems.com

Morton Buildings Inc. (specializes in commercial quality steel): www.mortonbuildings.com

Port-A-Hut: 800/882-4884, www.port-a-hut.com

Premier Steel Buildings: 888/782-8330 www.steelbuildingsetc.com

Royal Outdoor Products (vinyl products only): www.royaloutdoor.com

Sentinel: 800/327-0790 Ext. 98 www.sentinelbuildings.com

Super Sheds and Sunrooms (wood only): www.supershedsusa.com

SteelMaster: 800/341-7007 www.steelmasterusa.com

Wick Buildings, 800/356-9682 www.wickbuildings.com