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When homeowners consider online shed plans 12x16, they give a great deal of thought to the overall look and functionality of the shed. However, many individuals who build sheds report they regret failing to take all aspects of construction into account. Some of the more commonly overlooked items, doors and building materials, are discussed here.
Door Size
The storage solutions sheds provide is what attracts many individuals to them at the outset. This feature is why it is important to keep in mind the importance of creating an entry way that allows for easy access to larger, heavy equipment items like lawnmowers, snow blowers and even wheelbarrows. If it is impossible to fit these items through the door, then storage moves back to square one.
Fortunately, there are a number of options when it comes to doorways. Both hinged and sliding doors work well on small, exterior buildings like sheds, and each have different advantages. Hinged doors close tightly and take up less space. Just remember to account for the additional space required for hinged insets when measuring doorway space.
On the other hand, hinged doors are more difficult to install than doors that slide, and they remain somewhat in the way when fully open. Still, this is often preferred to the extra wall space sliding doors require to open up along the shed.
Door Placement
The placement of the door (or doors) is also a key to a functional shed. When doors are placed on the gable end of a shed, it becomes quite challenging to gain access to items stored at the rear of the shed.
Though it may not look as symmetrical, it is often a better use of space to place the doorway along a side wall. This central entry point ensures all items - whether they are in the front, back or middle of the shed - are easily accessible.
Of course, installing doors on both gable ends is also an option. Most homeowners forego this alternative, however, to keep the cost of building materials low.
Low Maintenance Materials
Speaking of things to keep low, ensuring upkeep is left at a minimum is often as important as cost factors. All homeowners are well aware of the challenges of home maintenance. Keeping up a shed is likely the last thing most want to add to their to-do lists.
Selecting low-maintenance building materials is a simple way to keep ongoing upkeep at a minimum. Plastic trim boards are great alternatives for classic, painted wood trim. It looks just as nice as the real thing, but is not vulnerable to termites, wood rot, splintering or warping. Not to mention, it will never require a coat of paint.
Instead of aluminum or vinyl siding, choose fiber-cement siding that is up to the beating storage sheds take. Likewise, choose steel doors and opt for composite decking instead of wooden steps. Vinyl or aluminum window trim and faux- slate or wood roof shingles are also fine ideas when it is time to bring those online shed plans 12x16 to fruition.
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