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Asphalt shingles are America’s most popular roof. Stats vary according to the enthusiasm and bias of the reporter, but asphalt shingles make up anywhere from 57% to 80% of home roofs in the USA. But what about a shed roof? The options can be a bit bewildering. We’ve helped thousands understand how to make these kinds of decisions. It’s our delight to put over 40 years of roofing expertise at your service to help you make smart buying decisions. Skim this post Advantages of Shingles for Storage Sheds Disadvantages of Shingles for Storage Sheds What do you need? PROS: Advantages of Asphalt Shingles Appearance. If you like a domesticated look, shingles often have a more “residential” appearance than metal. Frankly, a good quality shingle can look really sharp. Matching. Some people want their shed roof to match their house roof. Often, that means shingles. Choice of styles. Shingles come in two basic styles: 1) architectural, or 3-D; and 2) 3-tab. Architectural shingles have more material, are heavier, and will last a lot longer than an equivalent 3-tab. Architectural shingles also look a lot more classy than 3-tabs do. But 3-tabs cost less than architectural shingles. Lower cost. Shingles have a lower initial cost. (Hint: at Ulrich Lifestyle, architectural shingles are standard on all sheds, and are included in the price of a building. A metal roof is an upgrade.) Easy to repair. If they get damaged, shingles are considerably easier to repair than metal. Granted, they also get damaged more easily. But then, replacing a few shingles is relatively simple. (But, you may have a hard time getting the repair to match perfectly.) Easy to install. If you are a DIY sort of person, you may just decide you can replace your shingle shed roof yourself. CONS: Disadvantages of Asphalt Shingles Longevity. We all want to know how long our roof is going to last. That’s really hard to guess with any precision. For example, a low quality shingle in hot sun won’t last nearly as well. But for a rough guess–plan that an average shingle shed roof may last 10-15 years. (Hint: Shingle warranties may not give you an accurate picture of how long they will actually last.) Wind. Shingles are more prone to damage from high winds. The wind catches them and flips them up, breaking them. A high quality shingle, however, is quite resistant to wind. Sun and heat. Hot sun is really hard on shingles, making them become brittle and cracked. Temperature swings. Shingles don’t like fast temperature changes. In areas where the weather may swing from hot to chilly in one day, the expansion or contraction is hard on asphalt shingles. Environmentally unfriendly. Asphalt shingles are made of petroleum products. When they are worn out, most go straight to the landfill. What matters to you for your shed roof? For some, shingles require too much maintenance. What they want out of a shed is long life with low risk and minimal maintenance. They may opt for a metal roof. Others love the look of shingles, and figure that re-roofing a shed is an inexpensive, straight-forward job. Once you figure out what you care most about in a shed, you’ll probably know whether or not a shingle roof is for you. Related Articles Metal Roofing PROS and CONS The 3 Top Differences Between Quality and Cheap Metal Shed Roofs #GettingStarted #Quality #Options

The Scott family’s backyard was your typical suburban backyard. Grass, fence, and a swingset. It wasn’t an eyesore or anything like that, it was just boring. Jason and his wife Shana wanted to spend more time together outside as a family, but there just wasn’t much fun to be had in the backyard. The Scotts, along with their two children Taylor (9) and Presley (2) have lived in their home for nearly 10 years. But they were hardly spending any time in the backyard as a family. This year, that all changed. On Valentine’s day, Jason signed the contract for an in-ground pool. They included space for a pergola, outdoor dining, and of course the classic pool chaise lounge chairs. What was not in their original plan? A shed. It turns out, when you’ve got a nice pool, there’s a bunch of stuff that needs to be stored somewhere. So, Jason started looking for a shed that would serve as a pool house. Like many of our customers, he began by looking at the big box stores. He wasn’t particularly impressed with the build quality of these generic sheds. Additionally, he realized he needed a customized solution. Jason called several shed companies without success. In Jason’s case, his HOA had stringent height regulations that made it impossible to buy a standard backyard shed. He was almost ready to give up and use a generic building contractor, when he contacted Ulrich Barn Builders. When Jason called Ulrich Sales Consultant, Weston Ulrich, he got a different response. “He understood what we were trying to do in the backyard,” says Jason. “No matter what I was throwing at him, the answer was yes.” While there were challenges to overcome in terms of electrical and roof pitch, Weston suggested workarounds that made sense and allowed the project to move forward. The Scotts did a great job of fixing up the interior of the shed with a nautical / beach theme. It includes a fridge for cold drinks, a bench with hidden storage, and lockers for their kid’s friend’s stuff when they come over to swim. The project has been a huge success. “We’re eating meals outside,” says Jason. We’re in the pool almost every single day. You instantly have more friends,” he joked. “We’re just having a great time…and the shed is a part of that.”

Having a playhouse in your yard for your kids can be an excellent addition to your outdoor landscape. These structures provide many benefits for children and come in various sizes, styles, and materials to suit any backyard or budget. If you have young children in your home or ones that frequently visit, choosing to add a playhouse shed can be a terrific idea. These structures are an investment and can provide hours of fun for your young kids or grandkids. The Benefits of Including a Playhouse in the Yard When you choose to include a playhouse in your backyard, it is more than just a place for kids to play when they are outside. These structures encourage more outdoor play and can provide children with: Outdoor play in all seasons and weather conditions Building self-confidence and fostering personal relationships Encouraging creativity and imagination Better overall health and self-awareness Increased muscle strength and agility Improved motor skills It offers a unique space just for them Additionally, when you put a playhouse in your yard for children to use, these structures encourage a designated place for their outdoor toys. You can keep your landscape organized and have a central area for play. Homeowners can minimize the foot traffic and consequential foliage damage in other backyard spaces by focusing on a specific play area for the kids. So, whether your kid wants to have an outside tea party or needs a cozy space to read a book, these structures are ideal. The benefits of staying outdoors and connecting with nature are immense and do not diminish when the seasons change. Playhouse Shed Features Playhouse sheds come in various styles and sizes to suit any individual taste or backyard. Homeowners with minimal outdoor living space can still provide a structure for their children to use and enjoy for years to come.  When deciding on a playhouse model, consumers should explore the features available, what they are looking for, and if they have any restrictions to work around. Although many sheds for kids will be similar, some elements can make a model a more attractive option for your space. Some features to explore before choosing a playhouse shed include: Access doors Windows Interior Elements Exterior Elements Materials Versatility Access Doors The access doors on a playhouse structure are vital. Some models will include one entry, while others provide two. In addition, you can find styles that have a smaller door for children and a larger access door for adults, making it easy for everyone to get in and out. Having doors that can accommodate various sizes is also beneficial for moving more oversized furniture or items in and out of the structure. So choosing a playhouse shed that will accommodate your needs may require a model that has a larger access door or multiple entrance options. Often, playhouse sheds can be built with a small door in the front and a larger access door in the back for adults and furniture. Windows An ideal playhouse should have windows for your child to gaze out or call to their friends. Structures with ample windows will provide enough natural light inside so the kids can play for hours. Unfortunately, not every backyard will have access to external lighting options to wire a playhouse shed, so windows are necessary. Large windows also provide character to the playhouse and make it easy for parents or caregivers to check in on little ones playing outside. This way, adults do not have to go in and out of the playhouse. Alternatively, they can interact with the kids through the windows. Interior Elements An outdoor playhouse is more than just four walls with doors and windows. These structures can be a unique oasis for your child, especially when they come with individual interior elements to encourage imaginative play. Some special interior features can include loft areas with kid-sized ladders, finished flooring, or storage areas to keep their toys and favorite items safe outside. Exterior Elements How a playhouse shed looks on the outside will provide a charm to your backyard while making it an attractive space for your kids. Many outdoor play structures offer porches, window boxes, and ornamental trim and shutters to provide a finished look to the shed. By using exterior skirting around the edges, homeowners can make these structures look more permanent by including a playhouse shed in the yard. Materials Although the children will not care about the materials that make up the playhouse, parents and caregivers will. In addition, homeowners that spend money on an outdoor play structure will want it to last and be a safe space for the kids to play. Choosing a model that uses quality materials ensures the structure will be safe for children to play in and last for years, even against the weather and prolonged use. For example, high-quality shingles and roofing materials will ensure the roof does not leak when it rains. Alternatively, proper hardware will keep the doors and windows functional for years without worrying about repairs or causing harm after overuse. Versatility For some homeowners, including an outdoor structure will need to be versatile to handle children of various ages. The playhouse you invest in should grow with the kids and provide years of enjoyment. Choosing a model with higher walls, more oversized doors, and more space can give growing kids the opportunity to play with it for years. Additionally, some sheds available for the children’s outdoor playtime can double as garden sheds. When it is not in use by the kids, homeowners can store lawn chairs, electrical cables, gardening tools, and more. Encouraging Imaginative Outdoor Play With Quality Playhouse Sheds If you are searching for the perfect way to encourage more imaginative outdoor play with your children, adding a playhouse shed can be the solution. Homeowners should explore how much space they want to dedicate to an outside playhouse shed and what features they find are necessary to the structure. Then, you can choose a prefabricated model or custom-build one that is perfect for your family. Ulrich Playhouses

Sheds are fantastic additions to any backyard, offering much-needed storage for tools, lawn equipment, seasonal decorations, or even creating a dedicated hobby space. But a basic shed might not be maximizing its potential. Think of it as an untapped resource waiting to be transformed! Here's where Ulrich Lifestyle Structures comes in, with a toolbox of upgrades to transform your humble shed into a functional and stylish backyard space. Level Up Your Organization: Shelving and Lofts Let's face it, clutter can quickly take over a shed. Custom shelving solutions, strategically placed by Ulrich, can be a game-changer. Picture heavy-duty shelves for bulky items like paint cans, while labeled cubbies keep smaller tools and hardware organized. According to the National Association of Realtors (NAR),  77% of buyers said increased storage space was a key factor in their home-buying decision. The same logic applies to your backyard – a well-organized shed creates a more usable and inviting space. Taking organization a step further, consider adding a loft. This ingenious upgrade creates valuable vertical storage, perfect for seasonal items or infrequently used tools. Plus, it keeps them off the floor, minimizing dust and maximizing floor space for you to move around comfortably. Embrace Natural Light through Windows Sheds are notorious for being dark and dingy. But natural light doesn't just brighten the space; it also boosts your mood and makes working in your shed more enjoyable. Strategically placed windows by Ulrich can transform your shed. They'll not only bathe the interior in natural light but can also improve ventilation, reducing moisture build-up. Built to Last: Roofing and Siding Upgrading your shed's roofing and siding isn't just about aesthetics but protecting your investment. Durable materials like metal roofing can withstand harsh weather conditions, while high-quality vinyl siding offers excellent weather resistance and requires minimal maintenance. A study by the Environmental Protection Agency shows that well-maintained roofs can last 2-3 times longer than their non-maintained counterparts, saving you money on replacements in the long run. Doors for Security Matters Shed security is paramount, especially if you store valuable equipment or tools. Ulrich can install sturdy doors of your preference with secure locking mechanisms, giving you peace of mind. A door also adds an extra layer of protection against environmental elements, keeping your shed's interior dry and secure. Understanding Your Ulrich Shed Door Options When it comes to sheds, the right door isn't just about style. It dictates how you use the space inside. Ulrich offers a fantastic range of doors to personalize your shed, so let's break down the pros and cons of each! 1. Residential Single Door The Classic: This is your standard shed door. Sturdy, reliable, and sized for moving smaller items and tools in and out. Think of it as the everyday workhorse for your yard storage. Best For: Garden tools, lawnmowers, bikes – anything you access regularly. 2. Panel Garage Door Level Up: Add serious driveway appeal and make your shed feel like a proper workshop or garage. These lift overhead, opening up tons of space. Best For: Vehicles (ATVs, motorcycles), bulky workshop equipment, setting up a workbench, and needing wide-open access. 3. French Residential Doors Elegance & Light: Add a touch of cottage charm! These double doors often feature windows or glass panels, letting in natural light. Best For: She-sheds, craft studios, or if you want your shed to have a brighter, more inviting feel. 4. Double Shed Doors Bigger is Better: Ideal for storing wide stuff. They open outward for an extra-wide entryway when both sides are open. Best For: Riding lawn mowers and furniture, or if you plan to move large items in and out frequently. 5. Single Shed Door Small Space Solution: Essentially half a classic double shed door. These fit smaller sheds perfectly, offering compact functionality. Best For: Tiny sheds, tight corners of your yard, or if you need basic storage without frills. 6. Single Dutch Door Quaint & Quirky: Love a farmhouse aesthetic? Dutch doors have a neat split-level design – open the top to let in air and light while keeping pets or kids safely contained. Best For: Hobby sheds where you want ventilation or storing livestock feed while preventing animals from getting out. A Touch of Class: Finish Out and Cupolas A well-finished interior can transform a shed from a basic storage unit to a comfortable workspace or retreat. Insulation, drywall, and proper flooring can make your shed a year-round extension of your home, perfect for hobbies, crafts, or a home office. This level of customization not only adds to your quality of life but also increases the value of your property. Adding a finish coat to the interior walls can make the space more visually appealing. For the exterior, consider a fresh coat of paint that complements your home's aesthetics. Adding a cupola to your shed isn't just about aesthetics; it's also a practical upgrade for ventilation, helping regulate the temperature and moisture inside the shed. This architectural feature can prevent mold growth and protect your belongings from damage due to humidity. Invest in Your Shed, Invest in Your Lifestyle In the U.S., the demand for storage solutions and personalized backyard spaces has been steadily rising. This trend underscores the value homeowners place on functional, well-designed outdoor spaces. By working with a reputable custom storage shed builder like Ulrich Lifestyle Structures, you can transform your basic shed into a functional, organized, and stylish extension of your living space. Think of it as an investment in your lifestyle, creating a dedicated space for your hobbies, freeing up valuable storage space in your home, and potentially increasing your property value. So, unleash the potential of your backyard – upgrade your shed today!

You’ve probably heard a lot of reasons to order that shed – for your personal space, or because it’s a good way to store things. But what you may not have realized is that having a shed can also help improve your lifestyle. Really? Sheds can do all that? Studies say so. For homeowners, staying organized can be difficult. Especially as our kids grow up, or as we acquire gifts and new hobbies: there’s just not enough space for our lives. Backyard storage sheds can help Backyard storage sheds can benefit your relationships and health because they are an easy way to get organized. Studies show that staying organized can have a major impact on the wellbeing of your life. When there is clutter around us, our brains get cluttered, too. Likewise, when our brains are cluttered, our lives get unfocused. We lose track of the important things. Building that new shed can be a great first step towards inner and exterior organization. Staying organized helps you relax Having a cluttered home can be debilitating to come back to after a long day. According to this study conducted by the Personality and Social Psychology Bulletin, women who came home to houses filled with clutter were significantly less happy than those who described their homes as restful and happy. Use your storage shed to keep your home more tidy. Store your garden tools, power tools, accessories –whatever it is that’s cluttering up your home–inside your new shed. People who are organized stay healthy Studies also show that staying organized will help you commit to making better, healthier decisions. People who work at an uncluttered work station are much more likely to choose health food over comfort food. This is also true for people who have good organization skills when it comes to making routines, or organizing their thoughts, days, and weeks. People who have a regular, exercise routine planned are much more likely to stick with it than people who exercise on a whim. Having a shed to keep all of your exercise equipment in can also help. Keeping a neat and orderly shed with your workout gear easily accessible can be hugely encouraging for when it comes time to hit that workout. Organization helps relationships Allowing clutter to amass in your home can also be a burden on your relationships. Having too much clutter can make you ashamed to invite guests over. This can lead to negative influences over your relationships with others. It can also be a source of stress for you and your spouse or family, and can detract from the time you spend with them. If you are always looking for the things you’ve lost, how are you supposed to carve out a little one-on-one time with your significant other? Productivity Having an organized work space is also proven to increase productivity. Having too many things around can feel burdensome –there comes a point when clutter starts to consume your mind, making it much less likely that you’ll be able to follow through with projects on time. If you struggle getting things done around the house, think about investing in a shed you can use as a home office. This way you can have a place to be productive where you won’t be distracted by all the wonderful things that come with a vibrant home life. Bed time made better According to this survey, people who put more effort into keeping their bedrooms and bed clean are significantly more likely to sleep better at night. Staying organized with your priorities and keeping up with your tasks also leads to a better night’s sleep. That way you won’t bring last minute work into the bedroom with you. A shed can be a great tool for anyone trying to add a bit of organization into their lives. Check out all the ways people are getting creative with their sheds for ideas on how to make the most out of yours. How does your shed help keep your life organized?

My wife and I were looking for a cabin to stay at during a summer trip to Lake Tahoe. We found one that was reasonably priced and right off of the lake on north shore. We pulled into our own private driveway and walked up to the front door. The cabin was small. It had its own front porch, a picnic table on the front lawn, a propane barbeque, and there was a random boat parked near the entrance. Turned out the property was in the backyard of our neighbors, John and Lisa, who were also the owners. John and Lisa showed up on our front porch and showed us around the cabin. The front part of the rustic living space was taken up with a queen sized bed. There was a small tv and a rocking chair beside the wall next to the bed. The kitchen was packed to capacity with a stove, a washing machine, a set of cabinets turned into a makeshift dresser. There was a little gas fireplace that kept the place warm. But no A/C so we had to have fans going at every window. Though the bathroom was tiny and the shower was a small compartment in the wall, the place as a whole was magic –a great gateway to our adventures jet skiing, fine dining, and adventuring in Tahoe. My wife and I enjoyed every moment in that little space. At night, when we started to get a little cabin fever, we walked down to the beach and looked at the stars up in the sky. Then we’d come home and we’d cook up a little snack. The next morning we’d fire up the stove and brew up espresso and make cappuccinos. At the end of our stay in Tahoe, Lisa said that my wife and I must get along pretty good. “If you get in an argument in that cabin, there’s nowhere really to go except the bathroom.” The space was really quite fun and it got rid of distractions so that my wife and I could focus on each other. The liveable shed –a growing trend John and Lisa are entrepreneurs, using their property efficiently to make a little extra money. Tourism is so big in Lake Tahoe that they can pull in a lot of revenue from their liveable shed. Even more than that, they use it as an opportunity to meet new people from around the world, and enrich their lives with great hospitality. Anyone in their situation would be wise to consider the benefits of hosting their property. It’s a great experience and I could tell from their amazing customer service that renting their place out was a great joy to them. Is a liveable shed right for you? Thinking about a liveable shed for your backyard? There are a lot of reasons you might be. Maybe you have aging relatives you want to keep nearby. Maybe you live in a tourist area and want to make some extra cash, like John and Lise. If that’s the case, why not invest in a liveable shed? Of course you’ll want to make sure that the building ordinances are on par with the law. One important one to keep in mind is that in order for a building to lawfully host people, it must come intact with a bathroom. Check out any other building ordinances before making the decision to build your livable shed.

Looking for a shed for sale can be an exciting experience. A lot goes into picking out your shed, from make, model, color and beyond! But amid all this excitement, it’s possible to make mistakes in choosing the right shed for you. The shed you build is a big investment. Even if you choose to opt out for a cheap shed, like the ones you see in the parking lot, the time you spend in repairs will be an investment whether you like it or not. For this reason, it’s important that you consider what you are getting yourself into BEFORE purchasing/building your shed. Just as important as assessing your needs is educating yourself about what is available out there in the world of sheds. Believe me when I say this –there’s a lot of options when it comes to sheds. So why not poke around Google a bit (it’s what it’s there for!) and get a feel for the rising trends on the shed horizon! That being said, here’s a list of mistakes to avoid when choosing your dream shed! Buying the cheapest shed You get what you pay for. It’s no different than sheds. It goes without saying that if you are looking for a shed that will last, one that won’t need frequent repairs, then you are going to want to invest in a shed that you can trust. But buying a shed that is quality and affordable doesn’ mean it will cost you and arm and a leg. Looking for a shed for sale in Texas? Ulrich Barns creates quality sheds that you can really on. They’re affordable, too! Forgetting your local climate Live somewhere with long winters or hot summers? How about tornadoes or torrential rainfalls? You’ll want to consider a shed that can last the test of your local climates. With years of experience building quality sheds for sale in Texas, you can assure that Ulrich Barns is your top destination for sheds built for Texans. Purchasing cookie cutter sheds The horizon of shed making has changed over the years. People are doing some really fascinating things with their sheds. It would be a shame for you to miss out on the opportunity to have exactly the kind of shed that you are dreaming of! When buying with Ulrich Barns or any other quality shed builder, make sure you ask for what customizable options exist out there! Don’t be afraid to think big! This is your investment. You deserve to get the right shed for your needs. Ignoring your local building ordinances Every other list of worst shed ideas onthe internet has this one included, so why not throw it on? Needless to say it can be pretty catastrophic if you mess this one. YOu may have your ideal dream shed made, but if you break the law –well…that can’t be fun. Not to say that this is anything to fear! Just check in on your local building ordinances and make sure your project is up to date!

An in-depth look at when you do and don’t need to secure a permit for your backyard shed in Henrico County, Virginia. Named for Henry, Prince of Wales and oldest son of King James I of England, Henrico Towne was established in 1611 by Sir Thomas Dale with 300 settlers. In 1634, it became one of the original eight counties of the colony of Virginia. Currently, Henrico County covers 245 square miles with a population approaching 350,000 residents. The county surrounds the city of Richmond, the capital of Virginia. Both residents and visitors to Henrico County enjoy the Chickahominy River to the north and the James river to the south. Richmond Raceway, located in central Henrico County, holds two NASCAR events each year. The Lewis Ginter Botanical Gardens has something for everyone to learn about plants or just relax and marvel at nature. And for shoppers, there’s always the Short Pump Town Center, home to 125 stores and restaurants and host to a wide variety of entertaining events and activities throughout the year. No matter where you call home, before building a structure, you need to make sure you’re complying with local zoning and building codes. 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, even in rural areas. 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 Henrico County. The Reasons 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 that 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. 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 storage building wouldn’t require so many visits from a building inspector but a garage may. Consequences of Not Securing a Building Permit Failing to secure a building permit when required can result in some pretty stiff consequences. Generally, if the county receives a complaint about your outdoor structure, a zoning compliance officer or building inspector will pay you a visit. If, during their visit, the inspector deems your structure non-compliant with building or zoning codes, they’ll require you to correct the violations. Finally, if you try to sell your home in the future and the lack of permit is discovered, either because a Realtor reports it or through a title search, the buyer’s lender could make things difficult for the sale. Do you need a permit for a backyard shed in Henrico County, Virginia? 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 storage building 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. 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 Henrico County of 18 inches. Zoning requirements for storage buildings in Henrico County Zoning requirements are different from a building permit for a shed. Where a building permit has to do primarily with how the shed is constructed, zoning regulates where the building is placed. Here are a few things Henrico County wants you to consider about sheds: The requirements for a storage building depend on the principle use of the property. Residential storage buildings are regulated differently from agricultural storage buildings, which are different from commercial storage buildings. A few requirements for residential storage buildings: Accessory buildings and structures are allowed only in the rear yard unless a conditional use permit is approved by the Board of Zoning Appeals. They must be set back at least 10 feet from the dwelling, 6 feet from any other building or structure on the property, and 3 feet from the side and rear property lines. (Buildings within 5 feet of property lines may need to be fire-rated.) On a corner lot, an accessory building must meet additional setbacks from the side street. Accessory buildings should not be placed in any recorded public easements or fire lanes. Is there anything else to know? There are a few other items you may want to consider before signing off on a new backyard shed in Henrico County. The same zoning and permitting rules apply to temporary structures, such as while remodeling your home or to store your things while moving. 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 or gasoline-powered lawn equipment needs a non-combustible (concrete) floor that slopes toward the door. For more information … For more information about zoning requirements for accessory structures in Henrico County, call the Permit Center at 804-501-7280. For building permit questions, call 804-501-4360.

Ever want your garden to look like something out of your favorite period piece? You are in luck! This article will show you the many ways people are taking advantage of simple ways to make their backyard garden look like something out of a movie. English gardens are known more for their use of shuberry, seemingly random colors than for anything else. Yet, the english garden is an old tradition that many people in the US are copying. Why not model your garden in the guise of one of these English gardens? A short history on the English garden The first known gardens in England were planted by the Romans when they used to rule the island, back in 1st century AD. Following the romans evacuation of the place, English gardens went extinct from historical memory. They did not reappear until the middle ages. It was during this time that monks and monasteries planted in their gardens. They made gardening a big hobby in England. Like the English language, the English garden is really a cross pollination of various cultures mixed so slowly and gradually overtime that it’s become its own, distinct entity. For this first time since AD 100s, Italian influence returned to English gardens, this time brought on by the Tudors. Flash forward a few hundred years and so enters the Victorian Era. The English garden changed once again. It was here that growing masses of flowers and mimicking the wild flowerbeds became popular, along with the formal refined gardening of past centuries. And…violla! We have our gardens today filled with all the wonders and beauties that you see around you (if around you is a beautiful, English garden). But how do you create one of these gardens for yourself? Follow these simple guidelines and your garden will look more English than you ever thought possible. Plant in profusion, The British may be subtle in their mannerisms, but they are anything but subtle in their gardens. Find a flower you like? Plant in profusion. Don’t stop till you get enough! Over the garden wall A garden wall is a very British addition to any garden. Allow it to be overgrown with vines and shrubs and you’ll look British indeed. The British are also big fans of mismatched garden chairs. Don’t like gray or drab furniture meant to disappear with the landscape? Lavish in bold colors for your outdoor furniture. You can’t go wrong! Don’t forget that the best view of your garden comes from inside. Your garden can only be an English garden if the view from inside your house isn’t just as beautiful as the view outside. The garden room Ever see the secret garden? While your hedges may not be at the same level as the ones in that movie, you should definitely create little rooms within your garden hedges. This adds a dreamy, and certainly, English touch to your outdoor garden. Add a small garden shed No garden could be properly called an English garden without the addition of a small garden shed. Plant this shed along your hedges, let vines grow over it, or surround with your single flower planted to profusion. Whatever you want, you’ll need a small garden shed to complete the English garden look. What are some ways you are using your garden?

Below is a list of creative ways that you could make use of your outdoor shed. Some of these ideas have been tested, but they’re more just creative concept ideas. Feel free to try them out yourself! Personal Boxing Gym I’m a big kickboxing fan. How cool would it be to turn your backyard storage shed into a fully equipped boxing gym? It might be just big enough to put pads up along the wall and get some good boxing in. Keep the gym open and empty except for your boxing gear. I’d hang a punching bag from the ceiling in the middle of the room and take it down when I needed more space to stretch and spar. Indoor Putting Green If you have enough space for a storage structure chances are you could probably put a putting green in your backyard as well. But if you are a frequent golfer, you are going to need somewhere to store you golfing stuff. And I’m guessing the garage is a bit frequented to make sure your golf clubs stay safe and in order. In addition to storing your putting gear in a pro, golf storage shed, how cool would it be to add a small putting green to your shed? Add a putting machine so that you can have hours of putting practice without being distracted. The Ultimate Gym You’ll need a decent amount of space to do this one, but imagine all the time and money you would save by having your own personal workout space? Plenty of people try using their garage as a workout space, but let’s be honest – how often does that work out for you? The garage gets filled easily and people come and go. Having your own storage structure can’t be beaten by a garage. You’ll want to make sure that the floor of your shed is strong enough to handle weights. Look into ways and alternatives to make sure that this is a reality. You’ll also want plenty of ventilation so that your workout routine doesn’t get beaten by the weather! The Ping Pong Shed Okay so this may not be a revolutionary concept. But how cool would it be to have a hangout spot in your shed where you and your buddies can get together and play a few games of ping pong together? There’s really nothing that difficult with this one. Just get a shed big enough for a full sized game table and you’ll be good to go. Of course, along with this comes a few other sporting options – a billiards table would be a good fit for someone more into hitting cue balls than ping pong balls. Or you could just get a poker table. A guys night out they say is an important ingredient to any lifestyle. Any other cool sports shed ideas you might have? Share them below!

Nice big yards are great for planting luscious gardens, great verandas of floral wonderlands. But many of us don’t have wide open ranges. But just because we may not have great expanses of land to plant on doesn’t mean that we shouldn’t garden. In fact, there are plenty of great ways to garden in limited space. Having a private garden even when there is limited space can be a very rewarding activity. Taking time out of the day to get down to the earth, get a little dirty, has great benefits for your health. Planting one a day keeps the doctor away! But when there is limited space, it can be easy to get discouraged and look for other activities. Some of the prettiest gardens are in the midst of cities. There’s no reason why you can’t also have your own botanical paradise, despite the fact that you only have one small, limited space. Though limited space may not be as much of a problem in Texas as it is in other places around the country, there still may be times that you don’t have as much space as you’d like. City dwellers are much more likely to find this advice helpful than hardcore, country enthusiasts. But gardens can grow anywhere! Unexpected places to garden: planting in the driveway Have a free strip in your driveway? When you are limited on space but still want to have your favorite flowers and plants nearby to brighten up your day, try this. Find a spot in your driveway that could accommodate a few plants. Flowers between pavers Planting between pavers. Have a small backyard but want to take advantage of every bit of space? Planting some of your favorite flowers between the cracks in your pavers can be a great way to take advantage of the space that you have. The not-so-typical roof garden Imagine how great it would be to plant an entire garden on the roof of your home! Planting on the roof may limit the kinds of plants you can use on your roof. But it can be a great way to keep a garden when space is limited Planters on the patio A friend of mine has this adorable little one-bedroom cottage. He and his wife may not have the biggest backyard, but they put it to good use! The way they keep a garden in this limited space is by placing planters throughout the concrete space. You should see the creative colors they have throughout their small garden space. And just because space is limited doesn’t mean you can’t make use of storage! My friend keeps a small garden shed on the very edge of his miniature patio. This is a great place that he and his wife keep their gardening tools, watering cans etc. in. Stay creative There really isn’t a limit to where you can plant your favorite flowers, trees, vines and beyond! Plant in a wall, on a chair, on a table –it’s a great way to keep your little space filled with the wonder of nature! Struggling to stay organized? Get a small garden shed to keep your seeds in. Maybe even a small greenhouse is the right option for you! For more creative ways to take of your little garden, check out this list. What are some ways you’ve gotten creative with your gardening?

Life was fun when we were kids. All we thought about was the next big adventure, fitting in, and having fun. Remember those days? Well your kids remember those days – they’re living them now! Since they’re young now (and believe me, they won’t be for long) why not give them the best childhood by letting them have a space of their own to play in? Considering a playhouse shed? There are plenty of reasons to invest in your child’s playtime. With the increase in screen time, it can be a struggle to get our kids the exercise and interpersonal skills they need. Today, kids are too quick to opt out of playing with their friends in real life because of the easy access to video games. Meanwhile, they are missing out on the valuable skills that can only be learned from interpersonal exchanges. Playhouse sheds are able to give your child both the exercise they need as well as the opportunity to socialize with others their own age. Open your playhouse shed up to other parents in the neighborhood. Entertain playdates in an environment that supports growth while keeping your loved ones safe. If you’re considering a playhouse shed for your kids, check out these great ideas how to make your shed the killer destination for all things play! The magic-tree house vibe Why not turn your playhouse into a place for education made fun? Having easy access to books can be a great way to enrich your child’s mind. Children learn through play as much as they do through school! For this reason, keeping books at the reading level of your children is a great addition to your playhouse shed. Get them in the habit of reading often at an early age. Let them learn the passion of learning while having fun. Let your kids see their playhouse as a space of discovery! Fill it with mystery, hidden little treasures for them to find, like books, stories, board games meant to challenge them while inviting them to have fun. The ultimate arts destination Want to invest an appreciation of beauty in your kids? Turn your playhouse into an art studio. Keep art books around for your children to look at. Let them try their hands at sculpting. Maybe even see what kind of creations that your kid can make out of legos: there’s no reason those can’t be a medium for great creations, too! The science spot Arts may be forgotten in our school system, but often kids don’t receive the encouragement to pursue math and science through their formative years. There’s plenty of discoveries for your children to find for themselves within the world of science. Fill your playhouse shed with experiments that your kids can create. There are great electric kits that you can introduce them to, basic experiments in physics. Maybe introduce them to the world of geology! Show them map, teach them geography. There’s so many new things when you are that young! No matter how you decorate your playhouse shed, the important thing is that your kids have a place to grow and learn, explore and be kids! Have some great ideas for how you can turn your playhouse into a world of discovery? Let us know know below.