Usually when we talk about shedding we mean purging – today we’re talking about storage!

Don’t overlook your side yard and back yard as places to expand functional storage. It doesn’t take a huge footprint to add in a decent capacity storage shed.

There are many vendors of pre-made sheds in all sizes, shapes, and materials. Some can sit directly on the ground and some need a foundational base of concrete or pilings. Often a handyman can help with the preparation and assembly or the company you buy the shed from may offer that service as well. As an example, it took our handyman 10 hours to fully assemble 3’ x 6’ shed that did not need a foundation. So, don’t forget to factor in the cost of labor in the price of your shed.

Things to consider storing in a shed:

• Tools
• Bikes
• Sports equipment
• Camping supplies
• Yard/gardening tools & supplies
• Car supplies
• Emergency supplies
• Holiday decorations
• Ladders
• Extra paint and building materials
• Out of season or size clothes
• Memorabilia
• Archive documents

If you’re storing things like clothes, papers, or memorabilia, make sure they are in tightly lidded tubs.

Sheds go beyond pure storage and can be working areas as well. Some can be wired with electricity, have flooring, and function as small studio or office spaces.

As with organizing any space, be very conscious about how you populate it. Use the vertical space as much as possible by adding in utility shelving or appropriate hangers for things like ladders and bikes. Use larger, stackable tubs to group small items where appropriate and don’t forget to label them. Painter’s tape makes a quick, large label you can write on (use a thick marker) and change easily if needed.

Having extra storage is grand but beware – sheds can be a tempting dumping ground and quickly get out of hand!