By Carports • Design • Metal Carports • Steel Carports 0 Comments

Keen’s Buildings: Selecting the right carport size for you

There are many aspects of choosing a carport for you to consider. One of the most important elements is the size. While we live in a society that tends to offer up the idea that more is always better, that’s not always the case. Here are a few ways to help you choose the perfect size carport for your needs.

Number of vehicles

Carports come in a variety of shapes and sizes. For example, you can get a single carport; typically, these carports are wide enough to house a standard-sized car or pickup truck with enough room to allow the door to open easily. For most people, a standard carport such as this will do the trick; however, it is not by any means the only type of carport.
There are double and triple carports as well. Just as the name implies, these carports are larger and can hold larger vehicles (or multiple smaller ones). Single, double, or triple carports typically describe the width of the carport.

The width is not the only dimension of your car port that you have control over. Length and height are the other two dimensions you can customize. A smaller car would not require as much length as a longer vehicle. Similarly, a tall vehicle will require the carport to have more hight than a short vehicle. Ultimately, the size of your carport boils down to your needs as a vehicle owner.

The future

If you plan on purchasing another vehicle, or already have another vehicle you would like in mind, then consider that as well when having your carport built. Will you have two vehicles, will your current one be exchanged? How does the size of the vehicle you won’t compare to the size of the vehicle you currently have? All of these questions play a role in helping you determine the appropriate size for your carport.
Another way to look at it is if you are unsure you can build a double carport, just in case you get another vehicle, even if you don’t have plans to do so soon. Lastly, you can always add to a preexisting carport. One of the beautiful things about metal is that it is easily altered and expanded upon.
If you have any questions or want to consider, your options call Keen’s Buildings today!

By Carports • Construction • Design • Metal Carports • Steel Carports 0 Comments

Keen’s Buildings: What to look for in a Carport

On the surface, it may seem like all carports are the same. However, there are a few things to keep in mind when you are selecting the perfect carport to keep your vehicle safe. You’ll want a carport that can withstand unfavorable weather and last for years to come. If you are living in Flordia or Georgia, you’ve come to the right place! Here at Keen’s Buildings, we specialize in steel constructions, such as carports. We have a wide array of customizability options so you can build your carport to suit you!

Gauge for strength

When you have a carport built, it’s probably safe to say that you want something that will last. A sturdy carport that can not only stand against the test of time but the weather is ideal. That’s why gauge is important. The gauge of steel os the thickness of the steel. The lower the gauge, the thicker the steel. We use 14 gauge steel, which is able to withstand the harsh environmental climates of Georgia and Florida.

Roofs

Your roof is an important aspect of our carport, so it will take the brunt of the weather. You need a sturdy roof that is not susceptible to being ripped off in the event of strong winds. In general, roofs can be placed into one of two categories a vertical roof and a horizontal roof. The vertical roof has the panels running vertically along the roof’s slope, with the horizontal roof having the panels run horizontally up the slope. A horizontal roof may make it more difficult for rain and snow to fall off the occur roof, while a vertical roof tends to cost more. In a state like Florida, where heavy rains occur, it may be best to opt for a vertical roof.

Customize your carport

All of our constructions are completely customizable! If you want to add doors, change the size, design, and capacity of your carport, we will gladly accommodate you.

All of our carports are carefully installed by our installation experts. With us, everything you need to bring your ideal carport into reality will be carefully constructed from initial planning to final installation! If you are living in Flordia or Georgia an in need of quality steel structures, then look no further than Keen’s Buildings.

By Design • Do It Yourself • Sheds • Tips and Tricks 0 Comments

Keen’s Buildings: Fantastic Ideas for a She Shed

Ideas for a She shed

Men aren’t the only ones who can benefit greatly from having a shed. She sheds are becoming more and more popular. Here are a few creative ideas for turning a regular shed into a she shed!

Yoga or exercise space

Yoga and exercising are great for the body. You can stretch and do your work out in the privacy of your she shed. For this, you’ll need whatever equipment you typically use for your workout regimen. Whether that’s a yoga mat, weights, or an exercise bike. The shed will offer protection for your equipment as well as plenty of space for you to work out in.

Reading room

Curling up with a good book can be absolutely rejuvenation, particularly after working all week. However, it can also be difficult to find a nice secluded area to read that is free of distractions or disturbances. With a reading shed, you’ll have your very own reading space or library! To pull this off you will need a bookshelf, comfortable seating, and ample light.

Crafts

Crafts are a fun hobby, but it can be frustrating not having a specific location to do them, and constantly having to shift and move the tools you need can feel like a hassle. However, with a craft shed, all of your tools will be protected and in one location. What you need to equip your craft shed with will depend on the type of crafts you do. Regardless, you’ll likely benefit greatly from having a storage area, a sturdy table, and comfortable chairs.

Office

We can all benefit from having an office. Whether it’s to work or study an office can offer you a quiet space and the privacy you need to get work done. To pull this off, you’ll need electricity and any amenities you will need for your work. That can mean a laptop, computer, pens, paper, books, and more! If you plan on using your office all year round you may want to consider getting additional insulation so you’ll be able to conserve energy and control the temperature.

Café shed

It can be delightfully fun to create meals in the comfort of your own backyard. With a café or kitchen shed, you can do that with ease. It’s perfect for inviting friends over or having a family gathering. You’ll likely benefit from a refrigerator, chairs, and other amenities to get your kitchen up and running.

There is no limit to the uses of a shed. If you what to add on to a pre-existing shed or have one built contact Keen’s Buildings today!

 

By Design • Metal Sheds • Sheds • Storage Sheds • Tips and Tricks 0 Comments

Create your own Man Cave

Having a man cave can be a great way to get away and work on a hobby. However, it can be difficult getting the space you need, particularly if you’re designated man cave is a part of your hone, like in a designated room or part of a garage. That’s why turning a shed into a man cave can be the perfect option! You can either build a shed or turn a preexisting shed into your own personal hideaway. Here are a few ideas for you if you are trying to decide how best to utilize your man cave space.

Gaming or movie den

Who doesn’t like to kick back and enjoy a fun game or movie sometimes? Whether you want to have a marathon or just get away for a few hours to relax a gaming or movie shed will not only offer you a haven for which to experience your preferred media, but it will also offer you the privacy in which to enjoy it. You can enhance your shed further by adding some comfortable chairs, blinds to block out the sun, and some quality speakers for a truly immersive experience.

Music Shed

Sometimes you just need a place to practice, free of distractions or disturbances. Alternatively, maybe you want to practice with some friends away from others. Either way, a music shed can be the perfect solution! You’ll also have a designated area to store your equipment, so you don’t have to carry it each time you want to practice.

Motorcycle Workshop

Working on a bike, motorcycle, or another type of vehicle is a job that many people associate with doing in a garage. However, there may not always be adequate space. Having another area can provide you with the room to work if you don’t have a garage or it’s currently in use. Depending on the size of your shed, you may also be able to have company with you and additional space for which to store your tools and other equipment.

Barbeque

How doesn’t love a good barbeque? Between state holidays and the weekends, there is plenty of opportunity and reasons for a good barbeque. You can also accessorize your shed to accommodate a few of the things you need to throw down, like a refrigerator, and fold up tables and chairs if you like to enjoy the great outdoors while you eat.

Office

If you work from home or have to bring work home with you, an office can be a lifesaver. Create a comfortable work environment. You can equip your shed with all the work essentials like a computer, desk, and any tools you need for your trade.

There are many options for your man cave, and the options are limited only to your imagination! If you want to create your own personal man cave shed, then contact

By Construction • Design • Do It Yourself • Sheds 0 Comments

Keen’s Buildings: How to Convert your Old Shed into a Hideaway

Clubhouses and hideaways are appealing. Having your own unique space can be a truly comforting thing, and in a relatively crowded and popular location, such as Florida, it’s certainly appealing. If you have a shed in your backyard, you can easily convert it into a hideaway using these tips.

A fresh coat of paint

The first step is to give your old shed a paint job, inside and out. Because sheds are often small, this should be a relatively quick and painless endeavor. You can paint your shed to match your house or blend it with the surrounding area.

Repair

If your shed has any cracks or damages have them repaired. Sealing any cracks will prevent unwelcome intruders, like bugs, from entering through the cracks. You can use caulk and weather stripping to create an airtight space for your soon to be hideaway. If your shed is very old, you may need to replace entire walls or larger sections of the shed.

Install some windows

To add some natural light into your new hideaway, consider installing some skylight windows. In the moonlight, a window pointing towards the sky can create a memorizing effect. If you choose to you can have a skylight window that opens to allow some fresh air in, in this way you can enjoy some of the wonderful benefits of the outdoors in privacy.

Insulation

Insulation is excellent for energy conservation and condensation management. With proper insulation, your hideaway can be comfortable inside regardless of the season.

Add air conditioning or heating

In addition to insulation air conditioning and heating means you can control the temperature with ease. In Florida, air conditioning can be a saving grace. Just make sure that you allocate the space necessary for the installation.

Lighting

Many sheds only have one lightbulb, and for a small storage shed, that’s enough. However, when repurposing, you shed, you may want to add more lighting. Overhead lights and lamps are perfect to have if you plan to read or study. You can also install lights outside of your shed if you plan to use your hideaway in the evening.

Extra space

You can always add additional rooms and space to your shed. Many storage sheds are built with shelves and hooks. This is fantastic, as you’ll already have an area to store things. Think twice before tearing down shelve and hooks; they may be useful!

Repurpose old furniture

If you have any old furniture or benches, they can become useful assets for your newly refurbished building. If your furniture is a little rough, you can repair it. Sanding rough surfaces and adding a fresh coat of paint can go a long way when it comes to salvaging old furniture.

Replacing the door

The type of door you use can say a lot about the type of building you have. A simple door design can create a very welcoming atmosphere. You can add a screen door, patio, or porch to create a homely, welcoming feel.

The possibilities for your hideaway are endless. From purpose to ascetics, you can create a secondary space to be used however you want.

 

By Design • Do It Yourself • Outdoor Sheds • Sheds • Tips and Tricks • Uncategorized 0 Comments

Transform your Storage Shed into a She Shed

A well laid out plan can yield excellent results. With careful planning, you can make use of all the space you have, and turn a storage shed into a house complete with a living room, kitchen, and bathroom. Converting a storage shed into a she shed is not as difficult as it may seem. With six simple steps, you can change your drab storage shed into a living space with all the necessities to live comfortably.

Step 1: Planning

Determine the space you need for your shed, measure out the area, and sketch out the design you want for your shed. Allocate space for a porch and determine which assets you want for your building. You can also add a porch for a homely feel. Clean the inside and outside of yours shed well before you start your construction.

Step 2: Repairs

If your roof, foundation, or walls need any repairs, be sure not to neglect them. A proper foundation will endure that your building lasts a long time and will save you in costly repairs later. Check the ground and the foundation for moisture, and any other compromises.

Step 3: Insulation

Proper insulation in the walls and roof will not only help you better control temperature but also save energy. If you have single pane windows, consider replacing them with double-pane windows that have screens. You can also install drywall and paint over it to add to the ascetics.

Step 4: Rooms

Build a small bathroom, kitchen, bedroom, and living room. You can add counters and open shelves for storage.

Step 5: The Interior

Determine which flooring you want to go with and have it laid down. Hardwood or tile are both excellent options. Additionally, a few heaters and an ac unit will go a long way in controlling the temperature. Radiators that use oil are an energy efficient heating option.

Step 6: furniture

You can reuse old furniture or purchase new furniture for your tiny house. Using a sofa instead of a bed can help your safe space. You can use a table as a desk as well.

A tiny house can be a comfy hideaway that is perfect for small intimate gatherings or space just for you.

 

 

By Design • Gazebos 0 Comments

Get your Dream Gazebo Just in Time for Summer

Who doesn’t like being able to enjoy a nice spring or summer day outside? A gazebo can come in a variety of shapes and sizes and can be a beautiful addition to your outdoor space. They can be decorated or covered with climbing plants to give it a beautiful, and more natural feel.

One-sided

The one-sided gazebo is probably the type you are most familiar with. These gazebos can be free standing or built into a deck or patio. There are different variations of this gazebo, and they can be made with many material types such as metal, wood, or fiberglass depending on your needs. Additionally, roll up netting can be added to keep the bugs out. Many people are also opting for the addition of ceiling fans, lights, and sound systems for added comfort and enjoyability.

Pergola

A pergola is another favorite. These gazeboes typically have a lot of space, making them perfect for adding chairs and a table. Structurally these gazeboes usually have a flat roof and beams which are fantastic for climbing vines. Like the one-side gazebo, these can be either attached or free standing.

Arbor

If you are looking for gazebos similar the pergola, but smaller, the arbor may be right for you. The gazeboes are also wonderful for climbing plants, and they typically have four bans and a flat roof. These gazeboes generally are used as a decorative asset to a yard, but they do offer many of the same benefits.
Gazeboes can be a beautiful addition to your yard. But remember when selecting which gazebo is right for you to consider your landscape as well as the style of your house. Be sure that you are choosing a gazebo that is large enough for your intended purpose.
Beat the summer sun with your very own stylized gazebo from keen’s Buildings!

 

By Carports • Design • Metal Carports • Steel Carports 0 Comments

Fantastic Ways to Customize your Carport

Your carport isn’t only a place to protect your vehicles, It’s also an extension of yourself, and what better way to express yourself than some unique and stylish customization options. At Keen’s Buildings, we aim to please. Here are a few unique ideas to make your carport your very own or to add functionality to a seemingly single functional structure.

Mimic the look of another building

Just because your metal structure is a carport doesn’t mean it has to look like one. You can create an entirely different look and feel to this seemingly simple structure by designing it to look like another building. Carports that resemble barns are very popular and can create a rustic look and feel to your property regardless of where you live. That paired with a few matching accessories on your property and you can create a reasonably homely environment.

Enclose the sides for added style and protection

Enclosing the sides of your carport is not a novel Idea. It creates a cozy confined space, which facilitates a sense of privacy. Having a wall can add much functionality to your carport in general. Whether you decide to hang tools up or display awards, this wall can be used for many things, plus it provides added protection against the elements.

Add a space for storage

Simply because you’ve opted for a carport as opposed to a garage doesn’t mean you have to go without storage space. You can easily add a room to your carport. What you use the room for is entirely up to you. You can use it for extra storage space, create a mini-workshop, or even a mudroom to kick off your shoes to keep your abode from getting dirty.

Here at Keens Buildings, we like to facilitate dreams.  All of our structures are entirely customizable, and you can always add to it later. Contact us today for more information.

By Construction • Design • Keen's Buildings • Specialty 0 Comments

Flex Space: The answer to your space-related issues

Flex Space

Traditionally, buildings are made with very solid and sturdy materials. Bricks, cement, and cinderblocks are quite common for building materials. The only trouble with building out of materials such as these is that they are incredibly difficult to make alterations to. This may be a problem because it is not uncommon for a building to not be necessary anymore (like when a business relocates). Luckily, buildings are often repurposed and used for things other than what they were originally built for. One example is converting what was once a residential area (such as an apartment building) into a business headquarter.

For a business owner deciding when to expand is an important decision. Expand too soon one will be left with too much space that is not utilized in the correct manner. Early expansion can also result a cost the business may not have been ready to make. Expand too late and the business could lose out on opportunities.

In some cases, a business will want to acquire the entire building. In other cases, a business will not want to commit to purchasing or using the entire space. That’s where flex space comes in. Flex space is an industrial space in which the space can be changed to meet the needs of whoever is using it. This means that for businesses doing things like adding or removing offices is fairly easy. Space is also significantly easier to repurpose to suit the needs of the business. Flex space is a flexible space that has the potential to become a different type of space or environment.

Can I utilize flex space with a prefabricated building?

Absolutely! In fact, flex space is perfect for buildings that have already been made. Flex space puts the control of your building layout in your hands. You can easily change the spaces and easily repurpose them. This is perfect for expanding into spaces that you haven’t wanted to incorporate and is perfect for business growth. Putting up walls (temporary or fixed) is incredibly easy.

There really isn’t a construction method that allows for easy expansion like flex space. If you’re looking to create a space for your building look no further. Keen’s Buildings will work with you every step of the way, from selecting materials, to customizing and installation. Contact us today for more information.