Building a Shed or Barn: Factors to Consider

Tips from Real-Estate-Agents.com

reprinted courtesy of ServiceMagic.com

Factors to consider when building a barn or shed.

Size, material, purpose and customization:

Your service professional needs to know these things to better determine the size and scope of the project.

Features:

Think ahead to make sure and get all the features you'll need for your purpose. If you're using your building as a barn, you'll probably want to add stalls for animals and a secure door. If you're using it for an office, you'll want a different kind of door, and you'll also probably want to think about painting the interior.

Roofing:

Consider what kind of roofing you'll want for your building. Modern roofing options are the result of years of invention and experimentation. Some, such as slate and wood shakes, have remained nearly unchanged for centuries. Others, such as asphalt/fiberglass composites, lightweight concrete and coated-metal tile, are products of the technological revolution. Each has slightly different durability, appearance, cost and ease of application.

Asphalt shingle roofs may be applied directly over older asphalt shingles, roll roofing, or roofing felt on solid sheathing. The asphalt/fiberglass varieties are more fire-resistant than the organic asphalt types.

Wood shingles and some wood shake roofs require open sheathing, one-by-six boards that are spaced apart. The spaces allow air to circulate around shingles to prevent moisture buildup underneath the wood.

Tile and slate roofing is very heavy, sometimes requiring structural reinforcement. Slate roofs last much longer than asphalt shingle roofs. Depending on the slate's quality, the roof may last 50 years or more. Slate does cost a lot more initially, and because it is brittle, may require more repairs over time.

-- Tips courtesy of ServiceMagic.com