While many people focus on the general appearance of their storage shed, many overlook where to put their shed. Knowing the best location for the shed can change the entire look and feel of your backyard. It also saves you the time and effort of needing to move it later on due to structural or environmental challenges.
Many factors go into the ideal placement of your shed. For example, you should consider what type of foundation your shed needs, pay attention to the conditions of the soil or ground, and consider how utility functions are set up.
Where Do I Put My Shed in the Backyard?
Some of the biggest influences for shed placement are its shape, size, and what you’ll be using the shed for. If you want a porch or extra details, they should also be taken into consideration. All of this will have an effect on the final location of your shed. However, don’t worry if it seems overwhelming. In this article, we will help you avoid common pitfalls and find the perfect spot for your shed.
Consider Setback Lines
One of the first things to look into before buying your shed is the local ordinances. Ask if you need a permit in your city. If you have a shed without a permit, you may risk having to tear down the entire structure or even being fined. You’ll also want to check with your Homeowner’s Association if that applies to you.
Another thing to consider are setbacks, or the distance you are allowed to place or build another structure from your property lines. You may be asked to be 10-15 feet away from the edges of your backyard or home depending on the local laws. The height of size of your shed is a big factor in how far the final distance will need to be.
Evaluate Ground Conditions
The elevation of the ground you’ll be placing your shed on is very important. While slight grades can encourage water runoff, significant slopes and uneven ground can make it more difficult.
While there are unique solutions to work with uneven land, the flattest spot is usually best to counteract natural erosion. The stronger the center of gravity, the more likely it will have a lasting foundation.
Assess Surrounding Landscape
You always need to take into account the type of soil your shed will be placed on. Sand, clay, and rocks all need different preparations to create a stable base.
Roots, branches, and overgrown shrubs need to be cleared beforehand, as they can create foundational or roofing damage as they grow.
Determine Proximity for Utility Hookups
The next step is to contact your local gas, electric, and water utility providers to know where the utility lines run through your backyard. If your utilities are underground, you won’t be able to place your shed above the lines.
If you build on top of these lines and later develop a problem with your utilities, it can be a pain to take down your shed in an attempt to repair the problem. The shed also needs to be close enough to your home so you can run a line from the main electrical panel if desired.
Seek an Expert Opinion
If you have any remaining doubts, contact one of our experts here at Keen’s Buildings. We can help you navigate the most common questions people have about shed placement and provide expert advice to help make your new shed an exciting and stress-free purchase.