Before going to the store to buy a storage shed for a home's backyard storage needs, it is a good idea to take inventory of the items that are going to be stored in the yard. This will give the buyer an idea of how large of a backyard storage space is necessary. Taking accurate measurements of the yard will also help determine how large of a shed or other structure can be built, if that is the course chosen. If a shed is to be built, the aesthetic of that structure will be important, so it will be a good idea to consider the overall look of the yard and the house.
Sometimes a backyard storage shed is not needed at all, as some storage needs can be fulfilled by existing structures. If, for example, the backyard has a deck, items such as shovels, rakes, or brooms may fit right underneath the deck itself. A canopy or covering over a patio may be sufficient to cover a grill or patio furniture. If more backyard storage is needed, however, it may be a wise decision to build a shed or other storage unit. The shed should be an appropriate size for the yard as well as the storage needs, and it must be built in a proper location away from boundary lines.
The shed can be built from a variety of materials, but the most common materials are wood, metal, and plastic. Plastic backyard storage sheds are suitable for light-duty applications; garden tools can be stored inside, as can children's toys or even patio furniture, though the plastic shed may not be suitable for larger items such as a lawn tractor. A wooden or metal shed will be more appropriate for such an application. Wood is usually the preferred material because it is easy to work with and it can be modified easily to create features that are useful for the homeowner or renter.
Of course, it may be possible to build a backyard storage unit that is connected directly to the home itself. Before undertaking such a project, it is important to research local laws and regulations that dictate structural additions to the home. It is also important to follow local regulations to avoid fines or other issues. structures should be built in keeping with the aesthetic of the home, and they should be built in a location where they will not interfere with any of the home's utilities.