DIY projects are probably the most exciting thing that has happened to the home improvement game. Doing things at home for yourself is a big stress reliever and provides great feeling of accomplishment. There are numerous projects that one can sink your teeth into at home. Home improvement projects increase the value of your home along with increasing functionality and appeal. The old saying “failing to plan is planning to fail” rings true when it costs you a lot of time and money. It is wise to have some upfront knowledge before starting any project. The opportunities to use power tools are one of the major reasons to get excited about wood projects. One concern you should have is considering the hazards when it comes to safety. Look at your neighbours and you might be the only one that does not have a shed! So maybe the living up to the Jones’ still matters. At the risk of stating the obvious the uses can include storage of gardening tools, kids toys, bicycles or can be a simple playhouse for your kids. No matter the use, you can use the same design.
Here are 4 reasons to consider building your own shed.
Design
The design and the look of the shed is the next choice you need to make. This part of the project can also drive the cost of the project up. For example features such as heating, insulation, lighting, durability and overall looks can up your costs considerably. It is a good idea to have a design in mind so that you can decide what you want to budget for this project. Looking at a variety of different plans can help you with the budgeting process.
Cost
It is can be costly building a shed depending on the size or type. The choice of materials is a big factor. Building you own shed will help you know where to cut costs while maintaining quality and stability. There is a good chance that you will need someone to help you. A shed does not need to be complicated. The only difference is that it will take you longer than it would take a professional. Materials will be your most expensive part of the project and choosing from the many varieties of wood alone will give you a headache. Tools are the next biggest cost and this would either be a once off buy of the tools you do not have or you can rent the tools you do not have if you see yourself never using those tools again.
Bureaucracy – the dreaded “red tape”
Nobody fancies paperwork and bureaucracy. This is probably the one part that an experienced professional could save you a headache. But remember the professional started with the same lack of knowledge you might at this moment. Hello Google! This is where you can easily research what your do’s and don’ts are. Other things you should take note of is the gas lines and insurance needs because if you have a fire in this finished shed and your house burns down as a result it could void your insurance because you did not use fire retardant materials or take adequate precautions to safe guard insurances’ your possessions.
Time
If you are not in a big hurry then the time taken to build the shed will not be a factor. Remember this is a fun project and maybe a family bonding tool as well. You can also afford to watch for specials at your local hardware store on tools and materials. I once scored a good deal on a chop saw 50% off because I knew I had a project coming up and needed that tool. You may not have all the money needed to complete the project allowing you time to collect and build slowly at your own pace. With time on your side, the deadline for the shed is totally on your hands.
To conclude, start with the shed plan/design and it will answer all your other questions namely: materials cost, red tape and time, use reputable sources for your plans to ensure your project is successful.
