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 Keen's Buildings • Sheds • Storage Buildings • Storage Sheds 0 Comments

Keen’s Buildings: Things to Think About when Picking out your Shed

There are many factors to consider when building a shed. Having a good plan will save you time, money, and energy. Much of your planning for your shed will depend heavily on the purpose of the shed. Your intended purpose will help you decide which size shed is best for you as well as the style and accessories. Here are a few things to consider before you start building.

Size

The size of your shed is a crucial element. The size will depend on a few factors. What you need and the amount of space you have available to build are two such factors. The more you build, the higher the cost will be. So, you’ll also need to take your budget into account. You may think that it may be good to err on the side of more is best, however, you don’t want to have wasted space, so carefully consider what you need and aim for the best cost to space ratio for your unique situation to avoid having to pay for space that you won’t use. Here at Keen’s Buildings, we offer a wide variety of sizes, and all of our buildings are completely customizable.

Style

The style of your shed can have an impact over how long your shed will last. Sheds come in different styles, and some are more durable and will last longer. If you plan on moving or only using your shed for a relatively short period, you may not want to go with an extremely durable shed. The outward appearance of your shed isn’t the only thing you need to consider when selecting the right style. Some styles, like sheds with high walls, can offer a lot of loft storage space, while other shed types, like an A-frame shed, are more aesthetically pleasing.

Material

There are a variety of materials to choose from when building your shed. Each material has its own unique properties and can offer different advantages. Wood is heaver, but it can muffle some sounds better, and the material is thicker. However, it typically takes a long time to build. You may also want to get the wood treated for water and pests. Metal is another popular material it’s easy to work with and expand, should you decide you want to add on to your shed later.

Color

The color of your shed is an aesthetic choice. Paint can protect your shed by essentially creating a water-resistant coat over the raw material of the shed (wood, metal, etc.). You can paint your shed to blend with the surrounding environment, or to match your house.

Call Keen’s Buildings today to learn more!

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 Sheds • Steel Buildings • Storage Buildings • Storage Sheds 0 Comments

Rent-to-Own: Is it Right for You?

The consideration of whether you are better to rent-to-own your shed is a vital decision. Both options have their pros and cons. Your unique situation will determine which one you should select. However, there is actually a third option that is not spoken about as often, and that is rent-to-own.

Rent-to-own exists between renting and owning (eventually). Basically, you’ll make monthly payments for a set period of time after you’ve paid it off you have the option of owning the property, if you decide that you don’t want it, you don’t have to own the building.

How rent-to-own can be beneficial

With rent-to-own, you get the benefit of having the storage shed on your actual property. Unlike a typical storage facility that requires traveling, you’ll be able to easily access, your storage shed.

The rent-to-own option is also a fantastic option if you have poor credit, as there are no invasive credit checks. Making regular payments on your storage unit can actually serve to improve your credit score.

The potential uses you’ll have with a rent-to-own shed are extensive as well. If, for example, you are remodeling and need a place to store your belongings a storage shed in your property is ideal. If you decide that you would like your yard space back, you don’t have to claim the storage unit.

When rent-to-own is not beneficial

Rent-to-own is not the end all be all that it may appear to be, there are times you’ll want to consider other options. If you are able to pay for a shed, rent-to-own may not be the best option (because you can get better deals by just purchasing the shed).

If you have good credit and want to keep the building, it may be best to purchase the building if you can afford it. Financing your shed can also be a cheaper option in this situation as well.

Things to consider

If you can pay off your building early, you’ll save money in the long run. If you are opting for rent-to-own storage, shed, remember that you are responsible for the maintenance of the building. Learn more about your options or how we can help by calling us today?

 

By Sheds • Storage Buildings • Storage Sheds 0 Comments

Pick the Right Shed for your Lawnmower

When you are building a designated shed, it can be difficult to know exactly what you need. Lawn equipment, such as lawnmowers, require protection from the elements if you want to get the absolute most out of a lawnmower. In order to create the optimal shed for your investment, you’ll need to consider the size weight and dimensions of your lawnmower. A push lawnmower is very different from a heavy-duty lawnmower. A heavy duty lawn mower can weigh upwards of one thousand pounds; this weight can break or otherwise damage flimsy sheds.

You need to make sure that your shed can handle your lawnmower, here are a few things to consider when building your shed.

Style

Firstly, will your shed be just to store your lawn mower or will you store other things in it as well? Depending on your needs, you may have to consider which style is best for you. For example, if you want to have additional loft storage space, a shed with high walls may be an option. You can also take aesthetics into account when selecting your shed’s style. Be sure you understand what the styles you are considering can actually accommodate. You don’t want to have a shed built only to find out it can’t actually accommodate your lawn mower.

Just like lawnmowers can be different sizes, so can sheds, measure twice, build once. Be absolutely sure that your lawnmower can not only fit in the shed but the doorway as well. You’ll also want additional space for maneuvering and maybe some extra storage space for tools, a jerrycan, or parts.

Ramps

A heavy duty lawn mower is similar to a car. With that in mind, you’ll want to consider maneuvering when you have your shed built. You’ll also need to consider the ramp that will allow you to drive your lawnmower into the shed. You’ll want to make sure that your ramp is durable and able to handle the weight of your lawnmower. Be sure that your ramp is wide enough to drive on as well.

Reinforced flooring

As we mentioned before cheap flooring can reap havoc on flimsy shed floors. If you have a heavy duty lawn mower be sure to, opt for reinforced flooring. You don’t want to damage your shed in an effort to protect your lawnmower.

Vents

Vents are important for your shed. Because a heavy-duty lawn mower uses gasoline and produces exhaust, dangerous fumes should be able to easily escape. This is extremely important if you are emailing to do any work or maintenance in your shed.

Storage space and activities

If you plan on using your shed for more than storing your lawn mower you may want to consider additional space and accessories. You can gain a lot from adding shelves as well. Here at Keen’s Buildings, we take each client very seriously. Call us today to learn about the different types of sheds we offer!

 

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 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!