October 16, 2013 THE VILLADOM TIMES II & IV • Page 23 Tips to consider when shopping for a shed Storage sheds can be invaluable for people who do not have a garage or basement in which to store their outdoor tools and equipment. Sheds also can be a boon to anyone looking to increase the storage space they have at home. Prefabricated and made-to-order sheds are available for all different budgets and storage needs. Buyers also can choose among build-to-suit kits that can be ordered from various retailers. One of the first decisions homeowners need to make when shopping for a storage shed is how much space they need. Think about what will be housed in the shed. Will it hold shovels and the patio umbrella, or will it need to be larger to accommodate a lawn mower? Knowing how the shed will be used will make it easier to pick the appropriate size. Another thing to consider is how long the shed will be used. If this is merely a transitional storage building until a garage renovation is complete, it may not be necessary to purchase an expensive structure made of top-of-the-line materials. If the shed is meant to last a long time, look for a durable structure and consider spending a little more. Before buying a shed, find out if your municipality has any zoning rules about sheds. Plan a trip to the municipal building and learn the building codes concerning shed installations. In order to protect the safety and integrity of the area, many towns and cities have specific zoning and building laws that must be followed. A permit may be required, and knowing this in advance can save time and effort. After researching the building codes, begin to shop around for a shed. Sheds can vary widely in price. A small, vertical lean-to shed may start out around $350, while a larger, more intricate structure can cost between $2,000 and $3,000. Available materials should be studied when buying a shed. While an aluminum shed may not be the most aesthet- ically appealing option, aluminum sheds tend to be afford- able and durable. Wood sheds are available in all different styles and can be very attractive. However, they will have to be maintained to prevent rot and insect infestation. Wood sheds also can be expensive. Vinyl sheds may be the best of both worlds, as they are often durable and require little maintenance. Some sheds allow for the addition of different components at a later date, so it is not necessary to start with the elite model. When shopping, consider saving money by assembling the shed as a do-it-yourself project. Having a shed built off- site and then delivered, or hiring a carpenter to come and build a shed, may cost just as much in labor as in materials. Keep in mind that sheds displayed in a large store or outside at a home improvement retailer may seem smaller than they will in a suburban backyard. Measure the space carefully to ensure that the shed will be an appropriate size. Shrubs can be planted around the shed to help camouflage it, and the shed can be color-coordinated with the house to make it appear more cohesive. The foundation of the shed also needs to be considered. Sheds can rest on cinderblocks, poured concrete, or crushed stone. Check with the shed manufacturer as to the best foun- dation material, and factor that expense into the purchase.