How to Buy a Backyard Studio Shed

The backyard studio shed continues to gain in popularity. “Work from home” is here to stay for many people in the United States, and they’re looking for a quiet place to work at home, but not in their home. Working in a studio shed has proven to be an excellent alternative to retreating to the local coffee shop.

A backyard studio shed is a sizeable investment and is one you’ll be living with for fifteen years or more. Here are some important things to consider when finding the shed that works best for you.

Design: your studio shed should complement the style of your home. For example, a shed with a rustic design will complement a country-style home nicely, while a shed with arched windows or doors will work well with a house having those same features.

Landscaping: consider how you’ll integrate your studio shed into your yard’s landscaping. Plants and garden beds with perennials or annuals will help your outdoor shed blend into your yard. If your shed has wood siding, vines growing up trellises placed against your shed’s walls look incredible.

Foundation: regardless of the material your backyard studio shed is made of, it’s advisable to have it installed on a foundation that keeps it off soil or wet ground. Foundations can be made of concrete blocks, pressure-treated wood timbers, or a bed of compacted gravel. A well-draining foundation that is elevated helps prevent the corrosion or rotting of shed materials.

Wall and siding materials: your three primary options for walls and siding are wood, metal, and plastic.

Wood sheds typically have stud-framed walls covered with plywood, while wood sheds that are a bit more upscale may have plywood sheathing over the studs with traditional lap siding over the plywood. Asphalt shingles are often used on this type of shed.

Metal sheds typically have a simple metal framework covered in a skin of factory-painted or vinyl-coated metal for the walls and roof. Keep in mind that metal sheds can corrode if the protective coating or paint is scratched or damaged.

Plastic sheds made of PVC don’t need a coating or paint because their color is inherent in the plastic. They also require very little maintenance.

Zoning laws and HOA rules: before buying a studio shed, find out if your city or town has zoning law restrictions prohibiting backyard sheds. Some areas allow sheds but have size requirements, and there are usually restrictions on shed placement.

If you belong to a homeowner’s association, read the HOA bylaws concerning sheds to make sure you’re in compliance. For example, you might be required to place your shed a specific distance from your property line.

Decorative details: personal touches, like French doors or cupolas, can make a big difference in having your studio shed either be eye-catching or be an eyesore. You can also add things like window boxes, weather vanes, or shutters to add a bit of flair to your shed.

Need help with shed design? The staff at Countryside Barns is happy to visit with you by phone or in person at our Eureka, Illinois facility, or you can use our handy Shed Designer tool on our website.

Since 2009, our Illinois-based family business has been assisting families throughout the Midwest find the perfect shed. No matter what kind of shed you’re looking for, call us today at (800) 467-4614. We’re here to help.