3 minute read
Ask the Expert: Outdoor Structures
Choosing the Right Portable Building for Your Home
Contributed by Chad & Amanda Moore • MooreLibertyBuildings.com • 512-548-6474
MAXIMIZING SPACE AND FLEXIBILITY
Here in Georgetown, accessory structures such as a shed, carport, garage, home office, or pergola are super popular! They are a valuable addition to your home, creating space for storage, work, outdoor living, and more. But where should you begin when planning for your new structure? Following are key aspects to help you choose the right size, location, materials, and compliance.
SIZE: As the saying goes, “Go big or go home!” It is known that clients never say “Help, I need to downsize my building, it’s too big!” But often they do say, “I bought a shed, but it’s too small.” So, number one, get as much building as you can afford and/or fit on your property for the need at hand. You will be glad you did.
LOCATION: Where to put it? Much of the answer comes down to how you are going to use it.
Protecting vehicles? Probably on or near your driveway.
Lawn care? In the back or side yard where it is easily accessible for your mower and other tools.
Home Office? Put it where you have a nice view, or a particularly quiet spot on your property. Perhaps you want it just steps from your back door to create the shortest commute possible.
Storage: Often storage units are placed farther from a house because they aren’t frequently accessed. Some use storage units to provide a screen for unsightly views, so they place it along a shared fence line.
The bottom line is that location is up to you. Think about how you will use it, how often you will need to access it and what needs to go in and out of it.
MATERIAL: There are two main choices; wood v. metal. Smaller buildings (smaller than 18'x32') are often wood framed while larger structures (20’ wide and larger) are usually steel framed due to lower material costs. Anything over 10’ tall will be metal framed. The exterior may be covered with wood, steel, stone, brick, stucco, etc. to get the look you want.
RESTRICTIONS: You will need a copy of your survey, which should be in your closing documents or from your landlord. This will show building setback lines on the front, sides, and back of your property. Accessory structures typically must go inside these lines.
Also check with your HOA/POA to determine what restrictions they have. Many have height and/or size restrictions. You’ll need to apply for approval from your HOA before building.
If you are within city limits, you may need a building permit, depending on size. This can be in addition to your HOA approval.
