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Common Problems to Avoid When Installing a Shed

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If you are in need of more storage space in your home, you should consider building a shed. This structure is useful for putting away gardening equipment, seasonal tools and other items. Moreover, you will not have to rent storage space if you want to clear up your garage. When building a shed, you can choose to hire a professional contractor, or you can make it a DIY project. Regardless of your choice, there are critical issues that you are likely to encounter. Here are some of these common problems and how to handle them.

Lack of Building Permit

The shed is a small structure, so some homeowners overlook the need to get a building permit. This can cause extensive problems with the local council, and you could be forced to demolish the structure. According to the national Building Code, property owners must acquire a permit before construction unless the building is considered exempt. Exempt sheds are normally structures that have an area of less than ten square metres and have the average height of less than 2.1 metres. Therefore, you should know the restrictions and regulations that apply with regard to permits before starting construction.

Inappropriate Shed Material

There are numerous materials which are ideal for building a shed. However, it is not uncommon for property owners to choose the wrong material. You should diligently evaluate options before choosing the most suitable for your circumstances. There are three common materials which are used in shed construction: wood, metal and resin. Wood is an attractive choice, but it is not suitable if you cannot perform regular maintenance or live in a high humidity region. Steel is strong and durable, but it is prone to degradation when exposed to air and marine environment. Resin is plastic, so it is suited for most environments. However, it is limited in terms of visual appeal.

Poor Foundation

The foundation of the shed will determine its durability and performance. A poor structural base will lead to the premature failure of the building, and it can result in safety hazards. Therefore, you should choose different materials depending on the site conditions. If your land might have pests and critters, you should choose a concrete, cement or brick foundation. If you might move your building or plan to make foundational modifications, consider using wood or brick because these are more flexible. Finally, when building your foundation, you should ensure that the base of the structure has good drainage. 


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