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

Keen’s Buildings: How to Pest-Proof your Metal Building

In our homes and storage spaces, we like to believe in a sense of security. A clean metal building is always nice, and pests are things that we want to avoid. Let’s face it, you had your metal building built for a reason, and a pest hotel isn’t it.
Bugs and other undesirable pests need a few crucial things to survive, food, water, and shelter. While you may not be able to do much about the shelter, you can certainly control their access to food and water. Bugs, rodent, and other pests can find their way into your metal building, but with a few preventative measures, you can keep your building protected.

Remove any trash

First and foremost, remove anything a bug or rodent may eat. Keep any trash you have outside of your shed and dispose of anything that you no longer have use for. Along with removing the trash, take steps to keep your shed clean. Sweep and vacuum regularly and remove any eggs, webs, or bugs when possible. This will deter them from nesting in your shed.

Trim any hedges or tall grass around your metal building

Tall grasses and hedges, particularly if they are touching your building, can create an access point into your building. To reduce the risk, keep the area around your metal building neat and free of anything that can easily allow bugs or pests to climb onto the walls and into the seems of your building.

Fill any gaps in your building

Gaps in your shed door or between the wall panels, as well as any holes cracks, or other entry points are all welcoming uninvited guests to create a dwelling. Be sure to have all these places sealed and properly treated so that you can keep the inside of your metal building pest-free.

You may also benefit from hiring an exterminator if there is already an infestation. Additionally, having your property treated before there is a problem is an excellent preventative measure.

By Construction • Metal Buildings • Metal Garages • Metal Sheds • Metal Storage Buildings • Steel Buildings • Steel Garage 0 Comments

Keen’s Buildings: Why you should choose steel for your garage

Steel is the material of choice when it comes to commercial buildings, and for very good reason. Many of the same reasons why steel is such a desired material for commercial buildings can also be applied to a steel garage.

Low maintenance

When housing your investments, like your tools or a vehicle, you don’t want to worry about the protectant being subject to damage. Steel is resistant to many things that can lead a wooden building to ruin, like fire, water damage, termites. With a protective layer of paint, steel is also resistant to water damage, unlike wood which can swell and rot. If this happened, the cost of repairs for a wooden structure can take a long time to repair and will cost you greatly.

Quick to construct

A steel building is constructed significantly quicker than wooden buildings. Depending on the type you can have your steel garage constructed and ready for use in a matter of weeks (as opposed the several months, as is common with most wooden buildings).

Cost-effective

Steel is not only durable and long-lasting, but it’s also cost-effective. With proper cleaning and maintenance, when required, your steel garage can last for an incredibly long time. Steel buildings have been known to last for upwards of 80 years! And even when they have outlived their use, the material can easily be moved and recycled.

Eco-friendly

Steel is significantly easier on the environment than wood. Wood takes years to grow and with the water, and minerals needed to produce a healthy tree a lot of resources are used. Steel, on the other hand, can be recycled and used without adding further damage to the environment.

Reduced insurance cost

Because steel is so durable, many insurance companies will reduce your insurance rates for steel constructions. Additionally, you’ll increase the value of your property if you ever decide to sell it.

Steel is a fantastic material to construct garages from. If you need help selecting a style for your garage, or just want to know your options, Contact us today!

 

By Keen's Buildings • Metal Buildings • Metal Sheds • Metal Storage Buildings • Storage Barn • Storage Buildings • Storage Sheds 0 Comments

Storage solutions: Should you rent or buy?

It doesn’t take much to acquire a lot of things before you’ll need a storage solution. Over the years, between all the gifts, tools, and just day to day living we acquire many things. However, as our belongings increase our ability to store it more or less stays the same. That is, unless we take matters into our own hands. If you have an attic, garage, or basement that is overflowing then it’s time to consider another storage option. There are many alternatives at your disposal.  But one looming question remains. How do you know whether you should rent or buy a storage unit? That is the question we have set out to answer.

Rent

Rent is good as a temporary solution but it’s a far cry from an optimal solution in the long term. If you are trying to move, then a rented area may be best, but honestly, there are more downsides to renting. Firstly, rented storage units are often very expensive. Renting storage may cost anywhere from $150 to $250 per month or more (and that depends on a variety of factors, such as the storage location, amount of storage space, and the company). You also will not be able to access your belongings outside of business hours or keep an eye on your belongings.

Buy

Purchasing a storage unit offers more convenience.  You only have to make a one-time payment for the storage solution. If it is on your property, you can also keep an eye on it. You don’t need to worry about waiting for certain times to access your property. Additionally, if you are having the storage solution built, you can request to have it constructed to your specifications.

If you are looking for the perfect storage solution, call Keen’s buildings today. We offer high-quality metal constructions that are completely customizable.

 

By Metal Sheds • Sheds • Storage Barn • Storage Buildings • Storage Sheds 0 Comments

Tips to Keep your Shed in Good Condition for the Summer

 

With summer in full swing, you’ll want to be sure that your shed stays in good condition. Here are some things to help keep your shed in running order for the summer.

Outside maintenance

Remove any debris

Between dirt, fallen leaves, and pollen chances are that the outside of your storage shed has gotten dirty. Cleaning the outside of your storage unit can help it last longer as trapped moisture can create mold, moss, and mildew, which can build up over time. Giving your building a good wash can help improve airflow (which will prevent mold from growing). Additionally, cleaning and removing any debris and accumulated leafy can deter critters from hanging around your shed.

Trim grass

Grass or plants touching your shed can make it easier for critters to access your shed. To prevent this, keep bushes, grass, and trees trimmed. Also, if you have any heavy branches over your shed that can potentially break consider cutting the branches away, so it doesn’t fall on your roof in the event of a storm.

Add a fresh coat of paint

Paint can add an extra layer of protection to your building. Wind, shrubbery, and day to day events can damage the pint, so adding another coat will not only help keep your building safe, but it will also add to its aesthetics.

Check the roof

Your roof will take the brunt of the rain and the sun. Sun can lead to moss build up. If you have moss build up, you can remove it with a gentle brush and a detergent. Be sure that the detergent you use is safe for shingles or the type of roofing you have. Check for damages or missing shingles.

Inside maintenance

Check the interior

You may be surprised just how fast outdoor buildings get dirty. Do a thorough job cleaning the inside of your storage shed. Remove all the sheds contents for the best results.

Checks for damage

After you’ve thoroughly cleaned your storage unit take the time to check for any damage. Check the doors, windows, leaks.

Pest control/prevention

If you notice any damage from pests, it’s best to have your shed treated. The risk of pests making a home out of your shed increases, particularly if they need to stay warm in the colder months. Be proactive and have your building treated. Trim and grasses that is touching your shed and remove anything pests may eat.

Inspect your accessories

Be sure also to examine any shelves or other accessories you have in your shed. Check for signs of wear and aging. The last thing you want is to have your property damaged because of a faulty shelf. Look for any compromised wiring, broken outlets or lights that may have burned out.

Organize

When you are replacing all the contents back into your storage unit, take the time to organize the contents of your shed. If anything is broken or damaged replace it. If anything is wet be sure it dries completely before putting it back in your sherd. The leading cause of mold is moisture.

 

 

By Metal Sheds • Sheds • Steel Buildings • Storage Sheds 0 Comments

The Drawbacks of Hardware Shed Kits

Shed kits are growing in popularity; they are a cheaper alternative that you can pick up at a hardware store. With just a few hours of dedicated work, you can have your very own shed! Easy right? However, these sheds may not be all they seem to be. You’ve heard the old saying “if it’s too good to be true it probably is,” and hardware shed kits are no exception.

Here are a few drawbacks to hardware shed kits you may not be aware of:

Lifespan

Often the lifespan of hardware shed form kits is extremely low. As opposed to getting a couple of decades or almost a century from the quality shed, you may get about a five or ten years at the most from a shed built from a kit. Even for a reduced cost, this a shed kit may not be the most worthwhile investment.

Installation

Hardware shed kits promote easy and fast installation, however putting up a shed is anything but simple. There is the possibility of messing up, and this can compromise the already fragile product. What was supposed to be completed in a few days can drag on for weeks.

Noncustomizable

Because these kits are basically a ready-made shed in a box, your ability to customize it is greatly reduced. Additionally, because the shed is so cheap, you likely won’t be able to add to it, even with the help of a professional, without compromising the structure even more.

Leaks

Hardware shed kits are prone to leaks. Chances are good sealants won’t be used at or around the cracks and crevices of the shed and certainly not near doors. These faults defeat the primary purpose of the shed, which is to provide protection to your storage items.

Cheap material

Hardware shed kits are not built with strong materials. Moreover, the manufacturers of these kits simply want to make a quick buck and don’t really care much beyond you buying their product.

Don’t waste money purchasing a temporary shed that won’t last and may ultimately end up being more trouble than its worth. Here at Keen’s Buildings, we offer you only the best-made sheds, at an affordable price without sacrificing quality work or materials.  Contact us today to learn more!

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 Metal Sheds 0 Comments

Keen’s Buildings: Is a Shed Converted tiny home for you?

A tiny house can be an excellent way to save money. Furthermore, the constrution mat make use of something you already have. The concept of converting a shed into a tiny house is not new. Here are a few reasons you may want to consider building one.

Cost-effective

A tiny home created from a preexisting shed is very cost-effective. Having a shed built then purchasing a tiny house shell can save you tremendously. You can choose from having your tiny house shell built, or you can buy a shell.

Many manufacturers have shed building down cold because, entire shed building process is optimized and streamlined. Additionally, materials are often purchased wholesale, meaning that you’ll be able to purchase a high quality shed at a reasonably good price.

Why should I build a tiny house out a shed?

The time to takes for the construction of a tiny house is drastically shortened when repurposing a preexisting shed because you can purchase tiny house shells to capitalize on the speed of building. A speedy build is perfect if you need your tiny house quickly.

By having a shed as a base for your tiny house, your build time can be shortened drastically (particularly when compared to the time it would take to build from scratch.

Secure financing

Securing financing for projects can be a difficult process that many people are not familiar with. It’s true that a bank would likely be more than happy to lend you money to purchase or build a house. However, they will likely be a little reluctant to lend you money to have your tiny home built. That doesn’t mean that you cannot secure financing.

Many shed manufacturers will be perfectly happy to provide financing options.

A tiny house is a cost-efficient way to secure living conditions and downsize. While a tiny house is not ideal for everyone, for some, it makes sense. If you are in need if a place to live and are a little short on finances, a tiny house may be the answer.

 

By Metal Buildings • Metal Sheds • Sheds • Steel Buildings • Steel Garage • Storage Buildings 0 Comments

Important Things you need to know about Commercial Metal Buildings

The decision to expand your office or to add additional space to a preexisting building is no small feat to a corporation. However, choosing a metal building can be a saving grace that can help reduce both the time needed to complete the process as well as the money spent on the overall operation. If you are on the fence about using metal to build for your commercial building here are five important considerations.

Metal buildings are sustainable

Some of the most significant building landmarks in the entire world are constructed out of metal. The Eiffel Tower and the Empire State building are two such examples. Some metal buildings have been constructed well over a century ago and are still standing and in reasonably good condition. That is a testament to just how sustainable metal is as a building material.

Metal requires fewer resources to make than almost any other building material. Additionally, unlike other material metal, is extremely durable and not susceptible to rot or pests. Steel also produces fewer toxins when refined than other building materials.

Metal is very easy to recycle and repurpose. Additionally, if you purchase a special portable metal building, you can move your metal building easily making it ideal for changing locations.

Energy efficient

A metal building is easily insulated so that you can stay cool in the hotter months and warm in the colder months. Energy conservation is an essential aspect for anyone with a commercial metal building. You can save on costs and help protect your building at the same time (sense insulation can help control condensation).

Versatility

Metal is among one of the most durable building materials on the planet. However, its strength is not the only thing that makes this building material valuable. Metal also tends to be flexible, which is perfect for absorbing impact. Additionally, building interior spaces that would be impossible (or at least very difficult) using other materials.

Steel has a very impressive strength to weight ratio. This allows you to construct relatively large buildings without the need for support walls or beams. Beams limit the interior space of your building.
You have significantly more options with a steel building thanks to the versatility of the material.

Longevity

Metal is not susceptible to rot or pests. Insurance companies recognize the durability of metal buildings and as such are typically willing to lower the cost it takes to insure the building. Metal is so durable you will spend significantly less on repair and maintenance costs. This means that a metal building is a lifetime investment that can serve you for an incredibly long time, perhaps even for generations to come.

Affordability

The raw material needed to construct a metal building is relatively inexpensive. All around the cost of producing a metal building is even less costly to the environment. That coupled with the fact that a metal building has longevity means that over time your metal building will pay for itself.

If you are making the economical decision to have a building constructed then do your wallet and your future a favor and go with metal!

 

By Metal Buildings • Metal Sheds • Metal Storage Buildings • Steel Buildings • Steel Garage • Storage Barn • Storage Sheds 0 Comments

Storage Sheds and Outdoor Sheds in South Florida

Why rent space at a storage facility when you can build your own? It can be tempting to pay a storage facility to house the things you may not have room for. However, it comes with a few risks and undesirable requirements. Firstly, price. Many storage facilities will have you pay a fee (usually monthly or annually) these fees can compound and add up over time. Eventually, you may end up spending the same amount, if not more, renting. When it comes to cost over time buying a storage space is more cost effective. You also can’t easily maintain your property if you are renting a storage unit. lastly, with renting a storage space, you’ll have to travel to reobtain your belongings.

Why should you choose metal?
Steel sheds are fantastic for adding more storage space and no one makes metal buildings like Keen’s Buildings! Our sheds are designed to withstand the harshest weather conditions Florida can throw at you. Additionally, metal comes with a few perks that you won’t find with other materials, such as it being low maintenance and naturally fire and pest resistant!

The benefits of a metal shed go beyond merely being pest and fire resistant. Metal is an eco-friendly option that is easy to transport and takes relatively little time to install. That means you can spend let time worrying about your construction and more time utilizing it! Metal is also easy to recycle and creates significantly less by-product when being repaired and repurposed than other building materials. It is also incredibly durable and has the potential to outlive many other building materials by decades!

Our team is here to help!
We can help you navigate all of your shed needs. Our sheds are customizable, so you can design and create it to fit your unique needs. Call us today for more information!

 

 

By Metal Sheds • Metal Storage Buildings • Sheds • Steel Buildings • Storage Sheds 0 Comments

Keen’s Buildings: Are you looking for a Steel Shed or Storage Unit?

If you are in the market for a quality storage unit that will pay for itself over time and is durable and long-lasting, then you’ve come to the right place! Renting storage spaces often come with hefty rental fees that you’ll have little to show for after it’s all said and done. However, having a metal shed can help solve this issue. Firstly, you will have an on-site location to store your property. Second, the building is easily repurposed should it out live its original intent.

Florida is known for sun, surf, and thunderstorms. And while surfing will not impact your belonging the sun and thunderstorms certainly will. A quality metal storage unit can protect your property from both. The sun can damage your property, causing discoloration, and damage to paint. In some extreme cases, the heat can even result in material warping. Thunderstorms, on the other hand, can result in fires (should lightning strike) extremely high winds, and excess water. A metal storage unit can protect your property from all of these things.

Metal is naturally fire resistant, so it will ignite. Also, a steel shed will protect whatever it is housing from the weather. Moreover, with proper insulation, you can help control the temperature of the interior of your metal building. Here at Keen’s Buildings, we build our units beyond the industry standard. If you need a “certified metal shed” that is able to withstand extreme weather conditions we are more than happy to oblige.

We are committed to providing you with the best metal building or storage unit possible. Each of our constructions is fully customized to suit your unique needs. If you want an affordable storage unit that will serve you for many years then give us a call today to find out how we can help you!