Metal Storage Sheds – Keep Those Machines And Tools Secure
Are you thinking about building a metal storage shed for you car, ride-on lawnmower or just some outside office space? There are other materials used for building sheds, but metal has several advantages over the others due to its strength and security.
Metal, or steel storage sheds as they are sometimes referred to, will last longer and won’t require the same amount of annual upkeep than their wooden counterparts.
Build From a Kit or Not?
Deciding to proceed with a metal storage shed, the first stage is whether to build from a kit or buy a ready-made one. Both have their advantages, so it really depends on your skills and how confident you would be with a kit-build.
If you are keen at do-it-yourself projects or are a competent crafts-person, you’ll probably want to undertake the task on your own or with the help of family or friends. However, if you lack the inclination or know-how of how to tackle a self-build, then why not choose the easier option of buying one ready-made?
So, if you are going to go it alone, what I call ‘the rewarding route’, fair choice! Take note, before you start you will need a decent set of blueprint plans to work from, this will ensure that you’ll avoid making any disastrous and costly mistakes.
Where to Start Looking
The best and fastest starting point when looking for information about metal storage units has to be an online search, unless of course you know of a good local supplier. The results you get back from your search will be highly relevant, and you should be able to locate exactly what you’re looking for in no time at all, and probably find one very close to where you live.
Once Found, What Next? Metal Storage Sheds Plan!
You must have your plans! All builders have plans, all woodworkers and carpenters have plans. Don’t try and build without them, it could cost you money.
Now that you’ve located the design of your choice, and have selected the size, style and price range, you’re almost ready to go.
Your plans will outline the construction techniques and methods required along with material sizes and dimensions. This will help you organize and calculate your requirements precisely – no over-ordering will save you cash!
The blueprints will also help by showing accurate layout drawings of the concrete base that needs to be laid. This is important to be done correctly, as concrete must be laid to the right depth using the correct mix (ratio of sand to cement), in order to withstand heavy weights and extreme weather conditions. The base dimensions relative to the size of the building will be shown in detail as well. All in all, these designs will walk you through each stage, whether you are a skilled builder or not!
Durability and security of metal storage sheds
Metal by its very nature is more durable than wood or vinyl, therefore make sure you get a good warranty when you buy, which shouldn’t be a problem from a reputable or specialist company who deals with these types of sheds. Be wary when dealing with unknown suppliers who fail to include any guarantee with a purchase.
With a product that will be around for some time and is long-lasting, metal storage sheds are well worth it. Ensure the overall design and interior layout of window and door positions are to your liking and more importantly are practical.
Security is the major plus point with a metal or steel storage shed. But remember, the more openings you have, i.e. windows and doors, you will have to fit good strong locking devices to maintain a high level of security, as they remain the weakest parts of the building. If an intruder fails to gain access though any part of the walls or roof, the weakest area would be doors and windows.
Internal security
Special secure points can be installed inside the unit, so that smaller machines like quad bikes, vintage cars or other valuable things can be chained to these points independently of each other. These steel secure points ideally would be set into the concrete base floor rather than just attached to the side walls.
It is a sad fact of life that our possessions need to be protected, therefore selecting metal secure-points over wood or plastic is undoubtedly the right way to go. Install the secure-points properly and include them in the design from the start, then you wont have to address the issue later on. Digging up a concrete floor is hard work and will take a lot of time, money and effort. It all comes back to good original design and planning!
Now that you have your secure metal storage shed in place, you can get down to fitting out the interior with shelves, a workbench or whatever else you need. Also, it’s time to install any plumbing and electrics and even a telephone line if required.
Whether you have built your metal storage shed yourself or bought one already made, you will have a great purpose-built unit you can be proud of. And most importantly, you have something that is strong and secure to contain all those valuable personal possessions. All you have to do now – is enjoy all that extra space!
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