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First off, check your local zoning laws and make sure you're allowed to have a shed. If so, find out what requirements must be met. They may require a certain size, a certain type of foundation and just where you may place your shed, like a certain distance from the property line. Some locations may even require a permit and an inspection. If you don't check first, you may face fines and even removal of the shed.
Having said that, the first and likely most important consideration is what size shed to buy. What will Dad use it for, a riding mower, garden tools, rototiller? Buy a little more than you need right now so Dad doesn't run out of room next year. It's a sure bet that once he has the extra storage space he'll buy more "stuff". We won't discuss wood sheds with this piece, that's a whole other topic we'll cover later, but will cover metal and vinyl tool sheds. The top manufacturers in this area include Arrow and Rubbermaid, both of which have earned very good reputations because of their products, warranty and service.
Because there's such a wide variety to choose from, you'll need to think about the style and color of shed you want. You should be able to get the style and color you want so look at all available before making your decision.
There are a number of roof styles to choose from so make sure to note the style on the shed you like. The main opening has a few different styles as well, like sliding doors, pull open doors or garage style doors. On some of the larger outdoor storage sheds you can even get a separate access door, usually on the side. This can work well when the main opening is cluttered with equipment, like that riding mower, tiller, etc.
Construction - Another consideration is how the shed is made and the materials used. What you don't want is a shed that will start to come apart in a year or two or have the exterior finish start to fade. Make note of the manufacturer's warranty. Arrow sheds have a 12 or 15 year warranty, depending on the model. Duramax currently has a 15 year warranty. For a longer lasting product, look at a vinyl tool shed or a metal shed with a vinyl coating. These should last longer and look better years after a painted shed starts to fade.
Many of the Arrow and Rubbermaid sheds are easy to assemble, typically in less than a couple hours, so the average user can do it themselves instead of hiring a contractor to build it. Make sure to look at available accessories for the model you want, including a foundation kit. As you read the product description, make sure you understand everything that is needed to make the shed complete. If you have any concerns about severe weather or high winds, make sure and get an anchor kit as they will help keep your outdoor storage shed in place.
If you're ready to look at some sheds, here's a couple stores we recommend:
Betty Mills has an extensive collection of sheds including Arrow, Rubbermaid and Duramax. Click here
ReStockIt has a large selection of Arrow and Rubbermaid sheds. Click here
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