Setting Up a Site...

The more advanced thought and planning put into your shed, the greater your long term satisfaction. Come into our offices to discuss or let Cardinal Buildings experts give you a free on-site consultation.

Choose a Site - Choose where in your yard you want the shed. This may be determined by the visual appearance of your home, the lay of your lot, access to the house and drive, as well as other factors.

Foundation - Foundations may be made of one or a combination of the following: patio stones, pressure treated wooden beams, or concrete slabs. No matter which type of foundation you choose, start by outlining the "footprint" on the site. Make sure the ground slopes away from the shed site at least 10 feet in all directions. If necessary, build up the soil or use gravel to provide drainage.

 

Access - Do you need a drive to the shed for loading and unloading from your vehicle? Do you need stepping stones or a walkway to prevent damage to your lawn caused by traffic through the yard? Do you need a ramp to drive machinery into the shed, or would a stone platform suffice?

Storage - Make sure your shed is large enough to meet your needs. Organize everything with the use of lofts, peg-boards, shelves and or drawers. Make sure your doorways are clear and that you can reach the items you need.

Security - Make sure that your building is visible to your home or the street so that you and your neighbors can keep an eye out for intruders. Provide adequate lighting, to deter burglars and for your personal safety. Use locks or security systems, depending on the value of your belongings kept in the shed.

Utilities - The number and type of electrical outlets will vary depending on the purpose of the shed. A workshop needs more outlets than a storage shed. A garden shed might benefit from an inside sink, while an outside faucet might work better for a standard utility building.  Lighting would also vary depending on the intended use of the shed.