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Finally, you’ve found the land you need for your dream cabin. You’ve contacted us at Ulrich and have taken your tour of our factory to discuss the fine details of your beautifully personalized cabin. You’ve negotiated with our team to ensure that a perfect plan has been developed to meet your budget. You’ve also worked out financing for your brand-new cabin, and you have signed on the dotted line to get a uniquely designed cabin from Ulrich. The question you now have in your mind is, “How long will it take for me to get my new cabin?” While you are eagerly waiting, we’re going to clarify some questions you may have about the length of time it takes to get your cabin delivered to you. How Long Will It Take to Get My New Cabin? Ulrich has a streamlined process that is supported by highly efficient workers and equipment. As a result of this, the usual delivery time for your personalized cabin ranges from 10 to 12 weeks. This schedule starts when you sign the agreement to have the cabin built. We have a team of skilled drivers that will do whatever it takes to get your cabin onto your land without causing any damage to your dream cabin. Of course, with all forms of production and logistics, there are things that can delay this process outside of Ulrich’s control and/or the purchaser. In the worst-case scenario, you can expect your cabin to get to you in up to 16 weeks. I’ve Signed the Dotted Line, What’s Next? After deciding exactly how you want your cabin to look, you will sign an agreement with us at Ulrich. Following this step, our entire team will have a meeting and review the construction plan. To ensure precision, all departments involved in the development and delivery of your cabin sit in this meeting to give any necessary input. Following this meeting, we will move into production mode and the necessary materials are ordered. It’s just as important to us as it is to you that you are kept in the loop every step of the way. We want to ensure the best experience possible by updating our customers at each stage of the building process. As soon as the floor system is built, you will be notified and sent photos of the initial stage of building your dream cabin. At a certain phase in the process, you will be invited to visit our factory to review the progress and verify that the cabin is being built to the agreed-upon plan. Do I Need to Have Water, Sewer, and Electricity in Place Before My Cabin Arrives? It is not absolutely required that these things are in place before the cabin arrives, however, it is always helpful. If your land requires a septic tank, it’s recommended that you install it after the cabin delivery. The reason why we recommend this is that during the installation of your cabin, there is always a risk of your septic tank getting damaged. Therefore, to help minimize any damage that could occur, it is necessary to get the septic in place after the cabin is delivered. What Else Does the Ulrich Cabin Crew Do After the Initial Setup Is Complete? Once we’ve completed the initial setup, some final touches will be done on-site after the cabin is delivered. For example, if your dream cabin features a porch, the porch will be built or completed to your specifications at that time. The on-site crew will also install the skirting on the cabin. One thing to consider is that a modular build for a 4- to 5-bedroom cabin usually requires some extra steps, therefore, these cabins typically arrive to you around 80% complete. You can expect the following 20% to be finished on-site. Your friends here at Ulrich understand how exciting this once-in-a-lifetime experience is for you. Therefore, we are dedicated to do everything in our power to get the cabin you dreamed of delivered to you as soon as possible with the highest level of customer service. That’s the Ulrich difference.

Are you ever struck by a simple idea that takes your breath away? Les and Cindy Yoakum were burning a brush pile on their land in rural west Texas when an enchanting thought swept through their minds. They gazed upon a serene clearing nestled amid a lush woodland and suddenly envisioned a cozy cabin in that very spot. This newfound dream sent them on a quest to find the perfect log cabin, and fate led them to Ulrich Lifestyle Structures. Intrigued by the idea of a log cabin as their woodland retreat, Les and Cindy stumbled upon Ulrich’s website. With every click, they fell deeper in love with the craftsmanship and charm of the cabins they beheld. Cindy excitedly shared, “They had the best website and cabins going, and they were near enough we could drive there.” With Les’s vast experience as a general contractor spanning nearly half a century, he was eager to inspect the construction of Ulrich cabins. To his delight, he discovered a solid framing that exceeded his expectations. However, the Yoakums faced a unique challenge – they didn’t want to sacrifice any of their beloved trees to accommodate the arrival of the cabin. That’s when they discovered the perfect solution – a 16×40 cabin that could seamlessly fit between the trees. Les and Cindy adapted the original floor plan to suit their needs. They decided to add a loft over the kitchen, eliminating the second bedroom. As Cindy joyfully exclaimed, “It’s a good weekend size, and it’s functional.” With Ulrich offering outstanding customizability, their dream cabin was well within reach. Cindy revealed the multitude of choices available to them. She was captivated by the possibilities, from floor plans to interior finishes, wood stains, lighting, and more. Collaborating with cabin designer Brian, the Yoakums navigated every step of their cabin’s creation, ensuring that their vision was brought to life. Besides the cabin’s impeccable construction and customization options, Les was thrilled to discover that purchasing a ready-built cabin from Ulrich was more cost-effective than building it from scratch. With their savings, the Yoakums could add decorative stone to the cabin’s foundation and concrete walks, blending their sanctuary with the surrounding nature. Inside, the Yoakums adorned their cabin with rustic furniture, lending it a warm and inviting ambiance. The loft over the kitchen became a cherished spot for their grandchildren to sleep, adding a touch of magic to their family getaways. Every evening, as the sun dips below the horizon, Les and Cindy find solace on their front porch. Facing west and overlooking a small pond, they sit contentedly, sipping sweet tea and basking in the beauty of the setting sun. For Les and Cindy, their dream log cabin has become a testament to aspiration and fulfillment. It symbolizes the power of seizing simple moments of inspiration and transforming them into lasting memories. With Ulrich, their vision became a reality, and their haven in the woods has become the epitome of tranquility and joy.

After retiring from her job as a paramedic, Lee Charlton got into needle felting — I mean REALLY got into it! She produces wool on her own farm, buys exotic wool, spins yarn, and makes art with the wool fibers. What started as a hobby soon grew into a business. As her business kept growing, there was no way it was all going to fit into her house. The Charlton’s had purchased a smaller building from Ulrich years ago, so it was an easy decision to purchase an Ulrich cabin shell again. Lee says getting a cabin shell is a great way to go. It lets you get all the important structural elements of the building in place easily. Then it’s a matter of customizing the interior to your liking. The Charltons have done a great job finishing out the interior, including large concrete countertops, and a gigantic sink for washing wool. For Lee, though, the cabin isn’t just a place to organize fleece or create gnomes out of wool. It’s also a place to gather with friends and family. She teaches classes, hangs out with wool enthusiasts, and teaches her art to her grandkids. “It’s my happy place,” she says. You can visit the Felting Farmer Lady Facebook page here.

Andrea Hartline dreamed of selling antiques online. Selling from her house took up too much space. She needed a home business shed where she could store the antiques, ship efficiently, and run her business professionally. Andrea wanted a building that was functional, with a charming exterior that fit her business. Researching pre-fab buildings, she was impressed with Ulrich Barns’ great reviews. While she liked the buildings she saw on Ulrich’s website, nothing was quite what she wanted. By combining features of several buildings, she thought she could have the darling cottage of her dreams. Working with an Ulrich designer, they customized a 16×40 Retreat cabin, adding a porch, dormer, and a cupola, with Ulrich Barns’ signature barn doors at the end. Inside they added a small storage room, bathroom, and loft to one side of the main open area. Andrea was impressed with the construction team from Ulrich Barns, saying, “They did an amazing job.” Andrea finished the interior of her home business shed with white shiplap and handmade reproduction vintage light fixtures, with furnishings from old general stores. The whole space is useful for photographing her inventory. While Andrea’s shed for her home business is highly functional, she says it’s also “my peaceful haven, and I really look forward to coming out here every day.” “It takes my breath away when I walk in,” Andrea says. “I’m really delighted with the end result.”

Barbara Lyons' retirement journey from New Jersey to Leonard, Texas, was already a tale of joy and family bonding. Settling next door to her son and his young family, Barbara found comfort in her cozy Ulrich cabin. But little did she know, her next purchase would become more than just a playhouse. It would be the centerpiece of her grandchildren's happiness, a place where they would create cherished memories and strengthen their family bonds—a charming red and white Premier Hideout playhouse from Ulrich. Falling in Love with the Premier Hideout It all started with an email from Jim White at the Ulrich store in Cleburne, Texas. Among the delightful playhouses showcased, one stood out: the 8x12 Premier Hideout with a small porch and a loft. Barbara had always wanted to give her grandchildren a special place to play, and this playhouse seemed perfect. The playhouse's arrival was met with pure excitement. Barbara's grandchildren, aged 3, 6, and 10, could hardly contain their joy as they saw the playhouse being delivered. They ran to their grandmother, shouting, "Thank you, Gram! This is wonderful!" Barbara reminisces, "Everyone watched in amazement as they brought it in." A Haven of Joy and Imagination The Premier Hideout quickly became the children's favorite spot. The playhouse's spacious interior allowed the kids to spread out their kitchenware sets and cook pretend meals in their toy kitchen. The height was perfect for the younger two, while the older granddaughter, although a bit tall, still enjoyed playing there with her siblings. Barbara was particularly impressed with the playhouse's construction. "It's built very solid, just like my cabin is," she says. The playhouse provided a safe and sturdy space for her grandchildren and a place where they could expend their energy, giving the adults some much-needed peace. The Growing Popularity of Playhouses Barbara's story is part of a wider trend across the United States, where playhouses are becoming a cherished addition to many family homes. The American Association of Pediatrics emphasizes the importance of unstructured play for children's development, and playhouses provide an ideal setting for this kind of imaginative play. The National Association of Home Builders notes that playhouses can enhance property value and appeal to potential buyers. Research by the University of Michigan highlights that children engaging in imaginative play, such as that offered by playhouses, show improved social skills and creativity . These benefits drive grandparents like Barbara to invest in these delightful structures, knowing they are fostering a healthy and enjoyable environment for their grandchildren and reassuring them about their investment. Ready to create unforgettable memories for your family? Discover the perfect playhouse at Ulrich Lifestyle Structures. Contact us today to learn more about our wide range of playhouses and other structures. Our team is ready to help you find the perfect addition to your home that will bring joy and smiles for years.

Choosing the right paint color for your shed might seem like a minor decision, but it can significantly impact your outdoor space's overall aesthetics and functionality. A well-chosen color not only enhances the appearance of your shed but also complements your garden and home, creating a harmonious environment. This guide will help you navigate the process of picking colors for sheds, ensuring your choice aligns with your style, practical needs, and the latest trends. Why Shed Color Matters A fresh coat of paint does more than just protect the wood. It: Boosts Curb Appeal: A well-painted shed enhances your property's overall look. Reflects Your Style: The color you choose becomes an expression of your taste and personality. Influences Mood: Color psychology plays a role in how we perceive and feel within a space. Connects to Nature: The right shade can harmonize your shed with your garden or landscape. Understanding Color Psychology Before diving into specific hues, let's explore how color can influence our emotions: Red: Energetic, passionate, and bold. Red sheds can be eye-catching and exciting. Yellow: Cheerful, optimistic, and creative. Yellow brings a sunny, welcoming vibe. Green: Calming, serene, and natural. Green blends beautifully into most landscapes. Blue: Tranquil, peaceful, and relaxing. Blue evokes a sense of calm and contemplation. White: Clean, crisp, and versatile. White sheds feel airy and reflect light well. Black: Modern, sophisticated, and dramatic. Black makes a bold statement and contrasts beautifully with greenery. Factors to Consider When Picking Colors for Sheds Existing Color Palette: Consider the colors of your house, trim, and other outdoor structures. A complementary or analogous color scheme creates a harmonious look. Size of the Shed: Darker colors can make a small shed feel cozy, while lighter colors can make it appear larger. Purpose of the Shed: Think about how you'll use the shed. A bright, cheerful color might be ideal for a hobby space, while a neutral tone could be better for a storage shed. Lighting Conditions: Consider how the shed is situated in relation to sunlight. Darker colors may fade faster in direct sun, while lighter colors can create glare. Personal Preference: Ultimately, the best color is the one that you love and that makes you feel good in your space. Trending Shed Color Ideas Classic Neutrals: Shades of gray, beige, and white are always in style and offer timeless elegance. Earthy Greens: Olive green, sage green, and moss green seamlessly blend with natural surroundings. Bold Blues: Navy blue, teal blue, and sky blue add personality and visual interest. Barn Reds: Deep reds like barn red and crimson create a rustic, farmhouse feel. Black & White: This high-contrast combination is modern and sophisticated. Ulrich Lifestyle Structures: Your Partner in Shed Design Choosing the right color is just one aspect of creating your dream shed. Ulrich Lifestyle Structures offers a wide range of customizable shed options. From charming potting sheds to spacious workshops, our high-quality structures are built to last. At Ulrich, we offer an extensive palette of colors to suit every preference and need. Our selection includes a range of standard colors, premium upgrades, and the flexibility to choose a custom color tailored to your specific requirements. Whether you're looking to match your home for HOA or POA compliance or simply want to achieve a unique aesthetic, we have the perfect solution. Choosing Your Shed's Perfect Paint Color Don't underestimate the power of paint to transform your shed from ordinary to extraordinary. Take your time, explore different options, and let your creativity guide you. With the right color, your shed can become a beloved retreat, a functional workspace, or a stunning focal point in your backyard. Ready to Bring Your Shed Vision to Life? Contact Ulrich Lifestyle Structures today for a free consultation and let our design experts guide you through the process of designing and building the perfect shed for your needs. With our help, you can create a beautiful, functional space that adds value and enjoyment to your property for years to come.

The charm of a cozy cabin is an American dream for many. There's something inherently appealing about the rustic allure of a stick-built home that promises shelter and an experience—a retreat from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. In this blog, we'll explore the myriad benefits of owning a stick-built home, how Ulrich Lifestyle Structures can help you achieve your dream cabin, and why this option stands out in homebuilding. What is a Stick-Built Home? Before we discuss the advantages, it's essential to grasp the control and precision that stick-built homes provide. Unlike modular or manufactured homes, stick-built homes are built using traditional building methods. They are constructed piece by piece, or 'stick by stick,' hence the name. This approach offers flexibility, customization, and often superior quality, as builders can meticulously monitor and adjust every aspect of construction. Benefits of Stick-Built Homes 1. Customization and Flexibility: One of the most significant advantages of stick-built homes is the level of customization available. Unlike manufactured homes, which typically offer limited floor plans, stick-built homes can be tailored to your exact specifications. Whether you desire a spacious open-concept living area, a cozy reading nook, or a state-of-the-art kitchen, the possibilities are endless. 2. Quality and Durability: Stick-built homes are renowned for their quality and durability. The construction process allows for meticulous attention to detail, ensuring that every aspect of the home meets high standards. This results in a structurally sound home that can withstand the test of time and the elements. In fact, studies have shown that stick-built homes tend to have a longer lifespan and require less maintenance compared to other types of homes (NAHB, 2019). 3. Energy Efficiency: Modern stick-built homes can be incredibly energy-efficient, thanks to advancements in building materials and techniques. Proper insulation, high-quality windows, and energy-efficient HVAC systems can significantly reduce energy consumption, leading to lower utility bills. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, homes built with energy-efficient standards can save homeowners up to 30% on their energy bills. 4. Increased Home Value: Investing in a stick-built home can yield substantial returns. These homes are often valued higher than their modular or manufactured counterparts due to their quality, customization, and permanence. This can be particularly advantageous if you ever decide to sell your property, as stick-built homes tend to appreciate in value over time. 5. Aesthetic Appeal: There's an undeniable charm to a well-crafted stick-built cabin. Using timber or board and batten-style siding creates a warm, inviting atmosphere that blends seamlessly with the natural surroundings. This aesthetic appeal is not only visually pleasing but can also contribute to a sense of peace and well-being, making your cabin a true sanctuary. Turning Dreams into Reality When it comes to building your dream cabin, Ulrich Lifestyle Structures stands out as a premier choice. Ulrich cabins are 100% stick-built homes, meticulously constructed off-site and brought to your property, ready for immediate use. Here’s why Ulrich should be your go-to option: Turnkey Solution: We offer a completely turnkey solution. The cabins are fully constructed off-site, transported, and installed on your property. The only responsibility you have is connecting the utilities—water, electric, and septic systems. Customization Options: Unlike manufactured homes, which often restrict you to a handful of floor plans, Ulrich allows you to customize your cabin to your heart's content. From layout to interior finishes, your cabin will reflect your unique style and preferences. High-Quality Construction: Ulrich cabins are built with 100% timber, ensuring a rustic, authentic look with superior durability. No sheet material is used on the interior, enhancing the natural aesthetic and structural integrity. Efficient Installation: The cabins are delivered and installed with precision. Your property needs to be site-ready, with a clearance of 20 feet in height and width to facilitate delivery. The cabins are then set up on a pier and beam style foundation, ensuring stability and longevity. Non-Mobile Classification: Ulrich cabins are not classified as mobile homes because they are not built on trailers and do not sit on axles. They offer the permanence and quality of traditional stick-built homes with the convenience of off-site construction. Conclusion Owning a stick-built home offers numerous benefits, from customization and durability to energy efficiency and increased property value. Ulrich Lifestyle Structures makes achieving this dream even more accessible with our high-quality, customizable, and turnkey solutions. Imagine having a beautiful, rustic cabin tailored to your exact specifications, ready to serve as your peaceful retreat. With Ulrich, this dream can become a reality. For more information on how Ulrich can help you create your perfect stick-built home, visit our website and start your journey toward owning a timeless, charming cabin today.

What does “Mean Green” bring to mind? If you’re thinking the University of North Texas, you’re right on. For UNT, however, the “green” is not just about color, it’s also about sustainability. I recently had a chance to sit down briefly with Gary Cocke, UNT’s Sustainability Coordinator. Cocke helps oversee the numerous student led sustainability initiatives. One of the very recent initiatives is a community garden, located on the Denton campus. Cocke explained the three main reasons they wanted to start a community garden. Provide a local source for fresh, organic produce Provide a place for students to explore their interests in a horticulture and gardening Build a community of people interested in sustainability. The garden, now only a few months old, features a pleasing layout of square raised beds along both sides of a curving walkway. Groups can apply for individual plots and grow the vegetables of their choice. UNT needed a place to store gardening tools and supplies. Beyond pure utility, however, Cocke said they chose an Ulrich storage shed because they liked the green color. For him and his students, green is significant both as a school color and as a symbol for sustainability. The Ulrich storage building also included built-in shelving, which the gardeners quickly put to full use. Kemper Rao, Program Director for President’s EDGE was out planting seeds in her group’s garden when I stopped by. She is going to try the traditional “three sisters” approach to gardening. Popularized by Native Americans, it involves planting corn, a climbing bean, and a gourd (squash, pumpkin, or melon) in a group. With her office being directly adjacent to the community garden, food just doesn’t get much more local or fresh than this! To learn more about UNT’s ongoing student led sustainability initiatives, including a solar trailer and certification as a bee friendly campus visit https://studentaffairs.unt.edu/sustainable.

An in-depth look at when you do and when you don’t need to secure a permit for your backyard shed. Named for Philip Stanhope, 4th Earl of Chesterfield, Chesterfield County, Virginia was established in 1749 from parts of Henrico County. Currently, the county covers 437 square miles with a population of over 350,000 residents. The county borders the city of Richmond, the capital of Virginia. Chesterfield County provides over 4,000 acres of green space for outdoor enthusiasts. Both the James and Appomattox rivers offer plenty of opportunity for boating and fishing. Pocahontas State Park, rated in the top 10 best places for camping in the United States, has over 90 miles of trails for all skill levels. Dutch Gap Conservation Area, with over 800-acres of forest, wildlife, and water, offers plenty of space for relaxing in nature. Within two hours of Washington, D.C., the Atlantic coast, and the Blue Ridge Mountains, Chesterfield County is serviced by three interstate highways. Hop on one and you’re at Williamsburg, Kings Dominion, or Busch Gardens in under an hour. No matter where you live, before building a structure, you need to make sure you’re complying with local zoning and building codes. If you live in one of Chesterfield County’s many communities that have a homeowner’s association, you need to check with them, as well. These codes and laws are adapted for both safety and community purposes. They make sure that all structures, whether you live in them or not, are safe to occupy or protect their contents and that they don’t infringe on the rights of adjacent landowners. Sometimes, the law requires the homeowner to secure a permit for the work to be done. This post discusses the reasons behind permitting, what happens if you fail to secure a permit, and whether you need a building permit for a backyard shed in Chesterfield County, Virginia. The Purpose Behind Building Permits A building permit is like a permission slip. You submit your plans for work to the county, they give you a permit to begin the work, then an inspector comes to make sure the work was done according to the Uniform Statewide Building Code before giving you permission to use the space. Chesterfield County wants to see the plans for your building. If you’re buying your backyard shed from Ulrich Lifestyle, they can provide those for you. You’ll also need a plat of your property noting where the building is to be set, distances from the proposed accessory structure to the primary building and property lines; and if your property has a well or septic system, the location of the septic tank, drain field and well, with measurements. Depending on the size of the project, an inspector will sign off on the job at various stages of the work. This provides assurance that each stage—framing, electrical, masonry—is done correctly according to code. A simple backyard shed wouldn’t require so many visits from a building inspector but a garage may. What Happens If I Don’t Get A Building Permit? Failing to secure a building permit when required can result in some pretty stiff consequences. First, they’ll send an inspector to your home to look over your work. If they find any work not done according to code, they could require that you redo the work to bring it up to code, resulting in loss of both time and money. If you’ve progressed far enough to hide some things, like electric wiring, they’ll ask that you deconstruct enough so they can inspect it. That’s more time and money lost. And, no matter what the circumstances are, you’ll still have to purchase that permit. Finally, if you go to sell your home in the future and the Realtor or title officer discovers the lack of permit, you may still be required to secure one before being allowed to sell your home. Do I Need A Building Permit For A Backyard Shed In Chesterfield County? That depends. First, let’s start with the myth: FALSE: If your building is under 256 square feet, no building permit is required. This common misconception is a half-truth. The whole truth is a lot more complicated. Here is the text verbatim from the “Exemptions from application for permit” section of the “Virginia Residential Code Requirements Pertaining to Accessory Structures.” One story detached structures used as tool and storage sheds, playhouses, or similar uses, provided the building area does not exceed 256 square feet (23.78 m2) and the structures are not classified as a Group F-1 or H occupancy. Note the text in bold. If you intend to use your backyard shed as anything other than what is highlighted in bold, you need a permit. If you want a summer kitchen, guest cottage, in-law suite, backyard home office, or anything other than a tool or storage shed, even if it’s less than 256 square feet, you need a permit. What Are The Finer Points To Consider? This size exemption for storage sheds is only one part of the permitting puzzle. There are a number of other considerations. Primarily, a building of any size must be built to comply with Virginia Residential Code Requirements. If you’re building your own storage shed, it’s up to you to research what those code requirements are. If you’re buying from Ulrich Lifestyle, rest assured, we have that under control. But let’s look at a few code requirements that some other shed builders might not take to heart like we do. Treatment of wood-based products—In some instances, the wooden components of your backyard shed must be either “naturally durable wood” like cedar or “preservative-treated in accordance with AWPA U1” or pressure-treated. What are those instances? Wooden floor joists closer than 18 inches or wood girders closer than 12 inches to the exposed ground. Fortunately, all Ulrich Lifestyle buildings include pressure-treated floor joists and girders. If you’re shopping around, that’s a great question to ask other manufacturers. All wood framing members that touch concrete or masonry exterior foundation walls and are less than 8 inches from the exposed ground. If you plan to set your building on concrete, you want to know this. Sills and sleepers resting on a concrete slab unless a moisture barrier is used. Siding, sheathing, and framing less than 6 inches from the ground or less than 2 inches above concrete or similar surface exposed to the weather. All of Ulrich Lifestyle buildings include treated wood siding. Foundations and footing requirements—While your backyard storage building doesn’t require a permanent foundation, there are still a few rules to follow. The general rule from Section R403.1 of the building code reads: All exterior walls shall be supported on continuous solid or fully grouted masonry or concrete footings, wood foundations, or other approved structural systems that shall be of sufficient design to accommodate all loads according to Section R301 and to transmit the resulting loads to the soil within the limitations as determined from the character of the soil. Footings shall be supported on undisturbed natural soils or engineered fill. Tool sheds under 256 square feet do not require permanent foundations but still need to be tied down for wind. Other exceptions include: The building eve is under 10 feet Floor level to grade doesn’t exceed 18 inches The structure is anchored to withstand wind loads as required by code Supporting structural elements touching the ground are level, on solid soil, and if wooden, preservative-treated. The structure is constructed of light-frame materials or wood or light-gauge steel and not slate, tile, brick, or masonry. When it comes to footings, if your building is greater than 600-square-feet, or has an eve height of greater than 10 feet, the footings must be below the frost depth for Chesterfield County of 18 inches. Zoning Requirements For Storage Buildings In Chesterfield County? A zoning review will be part of a building permit review. Where building code has to do primarily with how the shed is constructed, zoning regulates several standards such as building size, height, and where it is placed. Zoning regulations apply regardless of whether a building permit is required. Here are a few things Chesterfield County wants you to consider about zoning standards for sheds: Every property is in a zoning district that has a classification (R-7 and R-9 for residential and C-1 and C-2 for business, for example). Each zoning district has its own “blanket requirements.” However, a development or property may have unique zoning standards that affect things like setbacks or building design. Each zoning district has its own setback requirements. Auxiliary buildings in a commercial district must be placed according to the same setbacks as the main building. Here are the general setback requirements for residential zones where the accessory building is less than 12-foot in height include: In the front yard, the building must be placed in feet from the road, half the depth of the lot or 80 feet, whichever is less. If the lot is a corner lot, side yard setbacks are the same as the front yard for that zone. In the side yard, the building must be placed in feet from the property line, half the measurement of that side yard. In the rear yard, the building must be placed at least 10-feet from the property line. Confused? Understandable. There’s a lot to consider. That’s why the folks at Chesterfield County always advise homeowners to call first. Everyone’s situation is different, they say, so it pays to always check with the department. Is There Anything Else To Know? There are a few other items you may want to think about before signing off on a new backyard storage building. Just because your backyard building is legal with the local authorities, doesn’t mean it will pass the muster with your homeowner’s association. If you live in an area under association rules, always check with them first. If you want to rent a shed on a temporary basis, such as while your home is being remodeled or to store your things while moving, the same zoning and permitting rules apply. Your storage building must be detached from the main house. If you want electricity or plumbing, you need a building permit and a permit for the utility. If your building is for commercial purposes like an office that the general public will visit, you need a permit. Any garage used to store vehicles needs a non-combustible floor. For More Information… To learn more about obtaining a building permit for a backyard shed in Chesterfield County, Virginia, visit their website at https://www.chesterfield.gov/223/Building-Inspection, call 804-748-1057, or email BIPermitsAndFees@chesterfield.gov. For zoning, visit https://www.chesterfield.gov/1294/Residential-Setbacks, call 804-748-1050, or email planning@chesterfield.gov.

Not too many years ago, our homes were our sanctuary. One left the rigors of work, the stress of dealing with clients, customers, or traffic, and came home to (hopefully) family, peace, and good food. Our evenings were filled with the family meal table, reading, games, and building relationships with those we love. The first intruders into our peace were the radio and television. While they provided some entertainment, they also brought the horrors of war, a falling stock market, and bad news from the street. Today, radio and television can’t compare to the intruder we carry around in our pocket. Everywhere we go, cell phones or tablets carry work, war, and weariness with us. A few years ago, during a much-needed shopping trip with my daughter, we lost each other in a department store. She eventually found me sitting under a rack of skirts answering a work email. “Mom,” she said, “it could’ve waited until you got home.” She was right. That evening, thinking about the scene and how I let it rob me of precious time with her, I cancelled all notifications to my phone. We think there’s no escaping it, this cacophony of bells and tones that ring of more to be done, more to know, more to weigh heavy on our minds. But is there really no place to hide? Our culture is just beginning to feel the weight of not coins in its pocket but the weight of the world. This negative energy in our personal space is having detrimental effects to our peace of mind and our physical health. According to the Mayo Clinic, “Stress that’s left unchecked can contribute to many health problems, such as high blood pressure, heart disease, obesity and diabetes.” Stress can materialize in our bodies as headache, fatigue, sleep and digestive disturbances, irritability, and many other symptoms for which we generally pop a pill. Yet, there are better ways to handle it. The most effective way to relieve stress in our lives is to remove ourselves from the situation. While we can’t always quit our jobs, detach from needy loved ones, or escape our own medical challenges, we can temporarily take a break from them and the rest of the world by creating a personal or backyard sanctuary. “Finding personal space to center self is so important for self-care,” said LaDawn Knicely, pastoral counselor with Hometown Pastoral Counseling Group in Dayton, Virginia. “Slowing down is important and not only has mental, emotional, and physical benefits, but also benefits interpersonal relationships.” What is a personal sanctuary? A personal sanctuary is a place to refuel, recharge, rest, and relax. It is where you have peace without disturbances from the outside world. It is a place that, after you’ve been there, you have the fortitude to face the world again. Since, with computers and televisions in many rooms, our homes are no longer sanctuaries, we need to be proactive in creating them. A wood or vinyl pergola or gazebo makes the perfect place for a backyard sanctuary. “A personal sanctuary,” said Knicely, “is any place you can find silence and solitude. And, give yourself permission to spend time there without feeling guilty.” Where should I create my personal sanctuary? I told my husband that if I could have any material thing in the world, I would choose a piece of wooded property with a pavilion for family gatherings. I dream of having that place, someday, to use as a retreat for myself and our family. But for daily periods of refueling, leaving home is inconvenient. That is why finding a place in your home or backyard serves best as your sanctuary. Laura, a college professor and mom to three small children, remodeled her bathroom to use as her “Zen place.” She included large windows so she could view the birds and squirrels in the treetop outside from her large soaking tub. She hung a crystal chandelier over the tub which catches the sun’s rays, casting rainbows and cheer across the room. But you don’t have to remodel to create your personal space. A spare room, large closet, back deck, gazebo or pergola, or even the hayloft in the barn can be appropriated for this use. Even a different furniture arrangement can lend itself to having a private corner. A wood gazebo, or a vinyl gazebo, makes a great backyard sanctuary in mild weather. “A gazebo is an excellent idea,” said Knicely, “because, it not only offers space for personal reflection, but it is also outside near nature.” What should I have in my personal sanctuary? Studies show that connecting with nature relieves stress symptoms. So, if your personal sanctuary is indoors, windows allow you to see trees, flowers, and birds. Also, house plants bring that connection with nature inside. “Bring in things you find while walking,” said Knicely. Feathers, rocks, moss, or other natural elements help to bring the outdoors inside. Of course, if your haven is the back deck or wood pergola by the pond, the natural element is provided. Music is another soul-soothing ingredient. You could play soft tunes on an offline device or include a fountain. The soothing sound of water tripping over rocks is music to the human heart. Knicely suggests lighting a candle, even a flameless one, while spending time in meditation or prayer. Including other things you love—favorite artwork, comfy furniture, a journal, family photos—make this space personal. “The time you spend in your sanctuary is a great time to record thoughts and feelings in a journal,” she said. What do I do in my personal sanctuary? Your personal sanctuary is a place for you to rest and recharge. “The purpose is to calm yourself,” Knicely said. “Let go of your thoughts, your to-do list, to be still with no thought of what needs to be done. Just be.” She said she knows that is hard for someone who has never practiced stillness or meditation before. So, she said to start with five minutes. “It will seem like an eternity,” she said. Then the next time spend seven minutes, and so on until you work up to an hour. “Before you know it, you’ll be spending an hour and wonder where the time has gone,” she said.

If you have a mower, you’ve probably had an uneasy feeling that you should tuck it in somehow for the winter. But the gutters need cleaning and the leaves need raking, and somehow it’s easy to neglect the mower. These mower storage tips are really fairly simple, and can save you a lot of expensive repair bills down the road by practicing proper mower storage. Get your mower ready for the last drive-in of the season. Store indoors Take care of fuel Clean off grass clippings Keep air in the tires Keep battery charged 1. Mower Storage Indoors Do you store your mower outside? If so, its useful lifespan will be shorter. Two main problems: Sun: Sun can fade paint and plastic parts. But it can also make them more brittle and susceptible to cracking or breaking. Engine covers are particularly prone to cracking, as they are constantly being opened and closed. Mower seats are also prone to cracking. Cracked mower seats are useful for storing rain and transferring it to your posterior. Other than that, they’re mostly just unsightly. Moisture:  As you can imagine, mowers like to be kept dry. Moisture can collect and pool, and can cause rust. Are you out of room in your garage? A shed is a great place to store a mower, and keep it out of sun and snow. If you don’t have a shed yet … well, we’d love to help you! Sheds come in all sizes, from just big enough to squeeze in your riding mower (6×8), to ample room for your ’55 Chevy “Gasser” drag racer and your mower besides. Take Care of Fuel Rolland Schrock of Schrock Tool and Saw has been selling and repairing equipment since the early ’90s. He’s a walking encyclopedia of small engine facts, and has helped us out with the following four Mower Storage Tips. The biggest issue with mower storage is the fuel. The Problem. Over time, fuel gets old and begins to break down. It will gum up the carburetor and the fuel system. When this happens, your mower won’t run right. Off to the mower repair you go for another repair bill! Fuel with ethanol is particularly bad. Every gas station in the country sells fuel with 10% ethanol, which is actually alcohol made from plants. Ethanol is hard on your mower. Here is a Popular Mechanics article that explains why ethanol wrecks your mower’s fuel system. The good news is that you can also buy ethanol-free gas. It may take some looking around for you to find ethanol-free fuel. It’s worth the look. Back to mower storage tips … The Solution:  Here are a few tips to keep your fuel system in tip-top shape: The biggest thing is to keep the fuel fresh. If you are only running an engine 2-3 times a year (more likely with your hedge trimmer than your mower), you’re not running enough fuel through it. You should be running at least 2 gallons of fuel each year. If you are running less than that, you need to use canned gas. Canned gas doesn’t break down and gum up the fuel system. It is available from any reputable dealer of lawn equipment. It’s expensive, but cheaper than a repair bill. Another great storage solution is to use fresh, high-octane, ethanol-free gasoline. But you still need a fuel stabilizer over the winter. The stabilizer will keep the fuel from breaking down. Which will keep your mower from breaking down. Extra Credit. The best way of getting your fuel system ready for storage is to let the mower run dry, then fill it with new fuel. Be sure to run the mower for a few minutes to let the fuel circulate through the system. Pro Tip: Some people like to just run the mower dry, so that there’s no fuel in it over winter. That doesn’t work. Your best bet is a full tank.  Here’s a helpful article with more details. “Canned gas” is high octane, and contains no ethanol. Shelf life is about 2 years after opening — much longer than gas from the pump. Clean Off Grass Clippings The Problem. Have you ever wondered why mower decks so often rust through? Grass clippings can accumulate both on top of and below the mower deck. This causes problems in two ways. First, when green grass clippings rot, they turn acidic. (If you’ve smelled rotting grass, and had your nostrils stung by the fumes, you know what we’re talking about.) This eats through paint, and eventually through the metal itself. Second, even completely dry clippings can gather moisture. If you happen to leave your mower outside in the rain, the clippings will gather moisture and hold it, promoting rust on your deck. The Solution. Keep grass clippings cleaned off above and below. Compressed air is the easiest way to clean off the upper side. Underneath, the grass cakes against the mower deck. A putty knife is a great tool here. Pro Tip. Turn off the mower blades before cleaning the deck. Mowing is dirty work. Keep the mower deck clean. Extra Credit. What about washing the deck? Rolland says, “Don’t kill it with kindness.” Obviously, if you’ve got mud on your deck, you’ll need to wash it off. But if you make a habit of regularly washing the mower deck, you can get moisture in the very bearings that keep your blades humming. Moisture in the bearings = failed bearings. Enough said. Keep Air in the Tires The Problem. Tires tend to lose air over time. When tires go flat, your mower ends up sitting on the rim — which is hard on your tires. The Solution. Be sure that before you store your mower for the winter, the tires are aired up to capacity. Keep Your Battery Charged The Problem. Batteries drain over time. Allowing batteries to drain down reduces their lifespan. The Solution. You have a few options. Charge the battery up a few times over the winter. If you don’t think you’ll get that done, you can use a trickle charger. A trickle charger, or battery tender, will keep the battery charged up. Is your shed off the grid? You can even get solar battery tenders. Pro Tip. Some people like to run the mower for 5-10 minutes every once in a while, to keep everything in good shape. That doesn’t work. First, you take out more from the battery than you put back. And second, by not letting the engine get good and hot, you actually invite condensation inside the engine. (That’s a bad thing.) So, if you’re going to run it, let it run for at least 1/2 hour to recharge the battery and burn off the condensation. Bonus mower storage tip – Changing Oil You should change your mower’s engine oil each year. But should it happen fall or spring? Turns out, it doesn’t really matter. Rolland notes that it may be a little better in the spring, since you can get rid of any condensation that might collect in the winter. But, he sees very few condensation problems come into the shop. And those that he does see, probably come from being started and run only a brief time. Needing indoor storage for your mower? Check out our sheds!

Sometimes all the choices in the shed buying process can make your head spin. Sizes, colors, types of siding and shingles can be a lot. And when it comes to paying for the building, the choices continue. Do you pay cash or finance? And what is rent to own sheds? If you have questions about the Ulrich Lifestyle rent-to-own program and whether it’s the best payment option for you, keep reading. In this post, we’ll dispel all the myths and misconceptions associated with this program and cover when it’s a good idea, and when it’s not the best choice for you. What are Rent to Own Sheds Rent: a regular payment made by a tenant to a landlord for the use of land, a building, office, apartment, or other property. If you’ve ever rented a home, you get it. And, just as the above definition explains, you can rent a building. Even if that building is delivered and set up in your backyard. So when you rent, you accrue no ownership in the building. Let’s take a look at how this might work. You rent a shed with a payment of $100 per month. After a year, you no longer want the shed. You call Ulrich and they come to get it. It is their’s, not yours. You paid $1,200 and you have no claim to the building. That might sound like a bad thing but it’s not necessarily. So, keep reading. When Rent to Own is a Good Idea. If you are considering renting a unit at a storage facility in town, or currently do, renting a storage building is a good idea. Why? Ulrich will bring it and set it up in your own backyard. When you want your Christmas decorations, you don’t have to drive 5-10 miles to get them. Cash poor and a low credit score? Rent-to-own can work to your advantage. The rent-to-own program doesn’t require a credit check. And, when you make regular payments on your rental building, it helps to improve your credit score. Remodeling, and don’t know where to stash your stuff? Renting a storage shed will solve that problem. It’s enough of a drag to have your house torn apart but when you have the stuff from the room being remodeled strewn from one end to the other, it’s even worse. Keep your neat and tidy life by having a storage building put in the yard temporarily. Not only can you keep all your belongings in there but it’s the perfect location for building supplies and tools. Kids moving back home? It happens. Loss of job, or worse, can find your single millennial or your son and family moving into your basement. What happens to their belongings until they are back on their feet? In this instance, renting a storage building is the perfect solution. Do you live a nomadic lifestyle? Military families, business consultants, or other folks that move frequently, will benefit from renting a shed. If you know you’ll only be in a home for a short time, it doesn’t make sense to strap yourself with the burden of selling an outdoor storage building when you need to move again. Rent it instead, and Ulrich will come and take it when you’re done. Renters of homes may want to rent a shed. Think about it. An outdoor storage building is an upgrade to the property—someone else’s property. Unless you don’t mind having to sell the shed when you move, why not rent it, too. When Rent to Own is a Bad Idea The person who can pay cash will get the best deal when purchasing anything. The same goes for storage buildings. If you have the cash to pay, don’t rent-to-own. Unless, of course, one of the above scenarios apply. If you have good credit and intend to keep the building forever, financing can be the cheaper option. Always shop around for interest rates and compare the total out-of-pocket expenses before making a decision. Other Things to Consider When you pay all the payments for the duration of your rent-to-own contract, the building is yours. Do you gain equity in the building along the way? No. But if you to continue to pay the payments, the building does eventually become yours. Also, you can pay the building off early. If you have the cash to do it, shortening the timeframe of your contract will save you money. Ulrich Lifestyle allows you to stretch your payments for 24, 36, 48, or 60 months. Of course, the longer you rent it, the lower the monthly payment. But, the more you will pay in the end. You are responsible for the maintenance of the building. Unlike having a landlord that fixes the plumbing, Ulrich Lifestyle will not maintain your storage building. You are responsible to keep rent to own sheds in good repair, normal wear and tear excepted. You should also include it on your homeowners or renters insurance. If you don’t, Ulrich will require you pay a Liability Damage Waiver fee. If you want more information about Ulrich’s rent to own sheds program, contact an Ulrich Lifestyle representative near you. They are equipped to handle all your questions.