Traditionally a convenient structure for housing agricultural equipment, farm sheds are actually well-suited to a range of uses. They can be a big commitment, though, both physically and financially, so it’s important to choose the right one. If you don’t know your open bay farm sheds from your closed bay ones, this is the guide for you.
Start By Determining Your Purpose
Don’t start by assuming that a farm shed is the best solution for you. There are other outdoor storage options available, from classic garden sheds to American-style barns, and one of these may be better depending on what you plan to use it for. So, define your primary purpose upfront. Will you be using the shed to store tools or vehicles, or do you have other plans like creating a workshop?
Clarifying the purpose will also help you choose the size and design of your farm shed. One thing always worth bearing in mind, however, is that your plans may change in future. You should avoid over-optimising for your current needs. You might end up needing more space later, or you might pick up a new hobby somewhere down the line.
Choose The Right Size
Choosing the right size is the most important decision you’ll make during this process. You need to factor in the space you have available, as well as your budget and the purpose you determined in the last step. Storing garden tools might only require a small structure. Storing a tractor, on the other hand, requires something very tall and spacious.
If how your landscape looks is important to you, you’ll want to choose something that looks proportional to the space you have available. This means not making it so big as to take up too much space. At the same time, you want to be able to move things into, out of, and around the shed with ease.
Select the Design Features
Open bay farm sheds and closed bay ones are the two main types of sheds you need to be aware of. Open bay means that they have no doors or cover at the front. These are less secure, but very convenient if you’re going in and out of the shed all day, especially in a vehicle.
When it comes to closed bay sheds, you’ll need to choose different types of entrances. Some have shutters that roll up and down, while others have doors that swing open. Other design choices include adding skylights, a ventilation system, flooring, or even a loft inside.
Choose a Durable Material
Closed and open bay farm sheds come in a range of different materials, and these affect the longevity of the structure as well as how it looks. Steel, for example, is a popular choice because it is very durable and resistant to pests. Meanwhile timber looks rustic and traditional, which allows it to blend more easily into the surroundings. But they also require more upkeep.
You could also choose a composite material. These require little maintenance but still hold up well against rot and rust. In the end, the right material will be the best fit for your budget, climate, aesthetic preferences, and the amount of maintenance you’re willing to do. You should also remember that paying for durability now is often cheaper than paying for extensive repairs later.
Don’t Forget to Factor In Accessibility
Positioning your shed correctly will influence how convenient and practical it is. Ideally, it will be near to your work area so that it can be accessed easily. But at the same time, it shouldn’t obstruct the view of your garden or take up too much room. Remember that you’ll also need plenty of space if you’re going to be storing large vehicles in there.
Also, consider the impact it may have on the surrounding area. It’s all well and good storing your gardening tools in the shed, but it’s going to be difficult to keep your garden thriving if it is blocking the sunlight from reaching your plants. You could also use it to protect plants or your work area from harsh weather.
Conclusion
Closed and open bay farm sheds can be a very convenient addition to any property with room for them. Whether you ultimately choose a shed or another outdoor building, you now know the main things to consider when picking one.