Hey everyone! My wife and I just moved into our new home a little over a year ago, and we're struggling with a lack of storage space and a proper workshop for my hobbies like 3D printing, reloading, metal casting, and painting on our 1-acre property. I'm considering either building a shed myself or purchasing a kit. Here are a few things I'm contemplating:
1. Should I go for DIY or a kit? I have some skills for building and can get help, but I'm curious if the cost of tools and materials will be more than hiring someone.
2. How strict are the city codes for sheds in my area? I want to avoid any issues down the line but don't know how much I have to stick to regulations.
3. Is a shed the best option, or would a small garage be better? I plan to work on my grandfather's 1976 C10 truck and might want a lean-to attached.
I have a budget of $3500 for this project and want to set it up for frequent use, possibly running electricity for tools and cooling. I want to make sure I'm not rushing into anything, so any pointers or considerations you might have would be really appreciated!
3 Answers
Good catch on the kits! Many come without a floor, so you'll need to budget for that too. Just keep in mind to add some costs for flooring and anything else that might pop up. Definitely pay attention to local codes—if your shed exceeds a certain size, a permit might be necessary. A medium-sized garage sounds like a better long-term investment for your hobbies!
Mapping out your costs is a solid idea! Depending on where you buy your materials, it sounds like lumber for just the basics could hit close to $2300. Keep in mind that you also need things like the foundation, roof, doors, and windows, which can push you over budget pretty quickly. Maybe consider checking out plans for a larger, sturdy shed that could last longer?
Totally agree! I recently did a similar project, and once I calculated everything, I ended up needing a lot more. It can be a bit overwhelming, but it really pays off to plan it all out.
Looking for deals on used sheds can be a smart move! You might find something on marketplace or Craigslist that's worth your time. Just be careful of the condition and any hidden costs of repairs. I did see a decent one for $5600 that included electricity, which could save you a lot in the long run!
Yeah, I've been browsing a bit, but it’s tough to find a deal that doesn't look like a total wreck. I’ll keep my eyes peeled for more options!
Thanks for the tip! I hadn’t realized how much those kits were missing. I'll make sure to check the local codes again for sizing.