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Streamline Storage Solutions with a Steel Portable Shed

Streamline your Storage Solutions

While the steel storage shed is usually a place where tools and garden supplies go to die, it is one of the easiest and most efficient places to store and organize things for your home. It can be a workshop for hobbies, a place to pot plants, a general storage area, or a host of other things. A freestanding storage solution can easily be built and installed in a weekend providing a safe, neat place to hold everything from seasonal gardening supplies and tools to household cleaning supplies. In addition, basic organization can help you find items immediately when needed and prevent things from becoming cluttered and messy.

  • By utilizing wall space from ceiling to floor and everything in between, with a simple pegboard system in an accessible location it not only can help you easily grab commonly used tools, but also by adding a few racks for off the floor you can utilize small space and add much more storage.
  • Small baskets and bins attached to hooks can make multiple storage and accessibility much easier. The shed is also a much better place for storing hazardous chemicals and paints as it is away from the house. Just make sure keep everything inside nice and cool.
  • Sometimes decluttering is as simple as “shelving” your problems. Multilevel attractive shelving that can be adjusted for different height and size items allows you to store everything from small boxes to large bins and every item in between avoiding floor clutter and literally, using what is around you. In addition, changes are just a rack adjustment away. With slotted walls and moveable panels, nothing is too permanent to be moved in one afternoon, but still is durable enough to hold up to even the toughest customers.
  • Another multitasker is an all-in-one work-station which allows you to build, store and work to your heart’s content. With different sections for large free standing tools such as saws and routers and shifting work stations this is the perfect area for the home handyman. In addition, floating drawers, rolling bins and sturdy metal toolboxes underneath make use of every available inch of space.
  • There is nothing like repurposing the old for the new. A simple way to declutter the shed for the pet owner is by using various sized garbage cans for storage of pet food. Not only does this save floor space by not keeping flimsy bags around that rip and tear, creating messes of their own, but it also gives your wallet a break by allowing you to buy larger amounts and save money. Finally, no more worrying about bugs and pests with simple snap-tight lids you have easy and efficient storage within storage that lasts much longer.
  • Speaking of pests, most insects and vermin will seek shelter during the harsh winter making your shed a wonderful temporary home. Make sure you perform regular evictions by plugging any holes or damage to prevent infestation as well as keeping your shed clean and free of possible hiding places.
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Plan For New Storage Shed

Are you making plans for a new storage shed? There are three easy steps to ensure your purchase goes as planned. First, determine what you are going to put in the storage shed you are buying. You want to make sure the storage shed is large enough to accommodate everything you are wanting to store in it. Second, find a good clear location in your yard avoiding any trees, power lines, carports, or other storage buildings. Make sure the delivery crew can get in and out without damaging any of your property. Last, after making your purchase of the storage shed. Schedule a delivery time and leave a three to four-hour window for the delivery crew to set up your new storage shed. Enjoy your new storage building and maybe do a little spring cleaning around your home.

Hopefully these tips will help you plan for your purchase of a new storage shed.

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Outdoor Storage Sheds Plastic or Metal?

There are many different types of outdoor storage sheds. The two main types are plastic and metal. Plastic outdoor storage sheds are good for a very short period of time. They are very prone to sun damage and have a short life span. However, a metal outdoor storage shed can stand up to the most extreme elements mother nature and dish out. From the blistering sun to the howling winds a metal outdoor storage shed will protect your possessions for many years.

By Enclosed Garages • Enclosed Steel Garages • Keen's Buildings • Portable Buildings • Sheds • Storage Buildings • Storage Sheds • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • 0 Comments

Tips to Buying a Vinyl Shed

Storage sheds come in many different shapes and sizes. In fact, storage sheds come with so many options that our customers are often faced with the choice of purchasing a shed with aluminum siding, T1-11 siding, Hardi-plank siding, steel panels or vinyl siding. Each type of siding has its benefits to the customer but when a  shed is to be used for at-home-storage, many of our customers like to use vinyl siding. So to help you decide if vinyl siding is the right choice for you, we’ve created this post to discuss what does vinyl siding does for you and what are some things to look for when purchasing a vinyl shed.

Maintenance Free

The beauty of vinyl siding on a storage shed is that it is virtually maintenance free. However, to ensure that it will continue to be maintenance free for several years of storage, there are a few things to look for.  If you are storing larger and heavier items, it is important to look for pressure treated shed joists as well as make your floor a thicker concrete slab by about ¾ of an inch more. If for some reason the floor will be getting wet, (this could be because of wet items being stored immediately or just to hose off the interior of the shed occasionally) then purchasing a floor with water sealer of pressure treatment is ideal. By ensuring you have these things, you can know that you will have a beautiful shed that is maintenance free and that will protect and store your items for the years to come.

Is There Enough Room?

Sometimes we get caught up in the idea of a storage shed and forget to remember if we have enough room for one. The most common base for a vinyl storage shed or building is a base of ¾ inch stone that is 2 feet wider and longer than the shed. This creates a good base with plenty of space for the shed. If you can fit the base, you’ll be able to fit the shed. Also, it is important to consider that while getting a vinyl shed that is already put together and ready for installation is the best way to buy a shed, it can also mean trailers and large trucks needing space to deliver it to your intended spot. So be prepared to accommodate the extra space needed for delivery.

Customizable Benefits

Vinyl siding is perfect for at-home-storage because not only is it maintenance free and durable during all weather, it also has a more stylish look that adds to yards or at home storage areas. Vinyl comes in a large variety of color choices and are completely customizable (metal trim, roof shingle and shutter colors) to match your home. This makes your shed look like it was meant to go with your home and add value to your yard.

Sheds can also be created with windows, window screens and even shutters to create an even more cohesive look with your home. Sheds can also be customized with security systems and temperature control when you are storing temperature or expensive sensitive materials.

The benefits of vinyl for at-home storage is almost immeasurable but hopefully with this quick post and these tips, you can see how a vinyl sided shed may be the right choice for you and you will be able to chose a quality vinyl shed from Keens Portable Buildings.

By Aluminum Buildings • Aluminum Storage Buildings • Carports • Enclosed Garages • Enclosed Steel Garages • Keen's Buildings • RV Carports • Sheds • Steel Carports • Storage Buildings • Storage Sheds • • • • • • • • • • • 0 Comments

Deciding What Size Metal Shelter or Shed to Get That Fits Your Needs

Purchasing a metal storage garage is a big decision that takes some time to review and discuss. While there are several things to take into account when deciding on purchasing a metal carport or shed there are two items to think over that are the most important. The first is to determine what your metal storage shed will be storing and how big of a metal garage you will need to shelter those items. To help with those decisions, we’ve created a brief list of what items are most commonly stored in metal storage sheds and how to decide which size shed/garage to purchase.

If You Are Storing A Car

If you are purchasing a storage shed to house and store a vehicle, it is very important to get a metal garage that fits your car with space to spare. You will first want to measure the length and the width of the vehicle being stored as well as how tall the vehicle is at its absolutely tallest point. That will ensure you have a carport that is the perfect fit for your car. But what many people forget is that once the car is snuggly nestled in its new home, you still need to get out of the car without dinging the doors. If you are using your metal storage shed for a car, always give yourself enough width (usually a few extra feet) to get out of the car, as well as enough height to stand up without bumping your head.

If You Are Providing a Shelter for Animals

If you intend to use your metal garage to provide a shelter for animals it is important to take into account the type of animals you intend to house. For larger animals such as horse and livestock, you will want a much larger metal garage with openings for stalls and entrances. For caged animals like guinea pigs or rabbits, measure out the width and stacking height of the cages as well as the depth. Be sure to compensate for a pathway between each side of the cages and take into account whether or not you may need more space in the future and plan accordingly.

If You Are Storing a RV or Boat

RVs and boats can be stored under metal carports or in metal storage garages and each has its benefits. To further protect your RV and Boat form the elements, it is suggested to purchase a fully enclosed garage with a garage door. You would measure this the same way as you would if you were storing a car. Measure the width, length and height of the car and then add a few extra feet to the width to account for opening doors and getting out of the garage. Also, remember that if online prices only go to a certain height, contact us and we can discuss custom carport and metal storage garage options.

If You Are Storing Every Day Outdoor and Household Items

If you are using your metal storage shed to store household items, then you will want to make sure there is plenty of space for your items, with extra space to spare for organizing and walkways. If you have items that are temperature or light sensitive, you can look into custom options that allow temperature control as well as windows, skylights and lighting systems. Other custom features available are security systems for those precious and valuable items being stored.

The Metal Shelter or Shed That Fits Your Needs

Always remember to measure what you are storing and prepare for having walkways, organizing and extra space if needed. One important thing to remember is that we have staff on hand to answer any questions you may have, so if in doubt call us, and we will gladly provide you with the information you need.

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How to Level the Ground for an Outdoor Shed

Our outdoor storage sheds were designed to be easy to construct and install, and in order to make sure everything goes as smoothly as possible you need to start with a good foundation. When you are selecting the location for your shed, you should first choose a site that is already comparatively level (to minimize the amount of digging) and avoid places that often have standing water.

There are a number of ways to level the ground for your shed, and the instructions for your building will come with specific recommendations for the most effective method. In general, though, there are a couple common ways to quickly and easily create a level and reliable place for the shed.

Method One

One method involves covering the entire space under the shed with gravel. To accomplish this, you must first mark off the area for the shed and make sure it is completely square. You may also want to extend this area a few inches longer than the dimensions of the shed to avoid mud and debris splashing up onto the nice siding during a heavy rain storm.

Once you’ve settled on the proper dimensions, you can remove about four inches of dirt and grass. Try to keep the bottom surface as level as possible and then fill the entire area with crushed rock or pea gravel. Fill the base until it is even with the ground and then compact the gravel with a metal roller. Again, make sure that it is completely level and then cover the entire surface with dry sand, working it in between the rocks with a rake. Once this is finished you can lay the paving slabs, level them out with a hammer, and then you’re ready to start building the floor.

Method Two

There’s another common method that isn’t quite so involved. Once again, you begin by marking off the area with stakes and strings – making sure that it is completely square. Once this is done you can mark spots on the string for the spacer (see your instructions for the exact layout), and then place some masonry blocks along those lines.

Place the 4×4 spacers across the stones and start leveling at the highest block. Dig down beneath each block and fill the hole with pea gravel. If the spacers are still not level, you can add or remove the gravel to even it back out. Never add gravel above the hole, though, because that could let the shed shift over time. You can add more blocks if you need to make big adjustments or use a shingle as a shiv if you just need a little more contact with the spacers.

A good foundation will help you get the most out of your sheds and other outdoor storage. Always follow the recommendations in your instructions and take the time to pay attention to all the little details. Some of them may require a full, concrete foundation, while others are fine with these methods. If you’re not sure what each structure will require, talk to one of our specialists and find out more.

By Carports • Enclosed Garages • Enclosed Steel Garages • Metal Buildings • Metal Carports • Metal Garages • Metal Sheds • Metal Storage Buildings • Sheds • Steel Carports • Storage Buildings • Storage Sheds • • • • • • • • 0 Comments

10 Uses for a Steel Garages and Storage Sheds

The first thought of many people considering purchasing a steel garage or storage shed is that it can only be used to store cars or to house garden tools but we’ve made a list of 10 (and believe us there are many more) uses for a storage shed or steel garage to help open your eyes to all that a steel storage shed can be.

You can use your storage shed as a…

1.  Animal shelter

Several people use storage sheds and steel garages as a place to keep animals such as bunnies, guinea pigs, and other crated or cages animals. The sheds can be custom made with shelving units to house such animals and are convenient and close to home to care for these animals that may not be allowed in the house. Other people use large steel garages to offer outdoor animals such as dogs, cats, horses, goats or other farm animal’s protection from the extreme weather elements of rain, snow, cold and heat.

2. Place of Business

Renting and paying utilities on a place of business can be difficult for a small business just starting out but to keep your operating costs and over head low, you may want to consider using a storage shed as your place of business until you feel ready for a piece of business reality
3.  Hobby Shop

Many steel garage owners use their sheds as a place to do hobbies that there may not be room for in the home. Whether it is being used for quilting, sewing, or crafting, storage sheds are the perfect place to store all craft and hobby material as well as the best place to step away and enjoy your hobbies.

4. Game Room/Man Cave

Every man deserves a place to go hang out with his buddies and play poker, pool or just to watch the big game. Using a storage shed as a man cave and game rooms gives the man of the house a place to escape to and enjoy.

5. Workshop

Larger hobbies such as welding or wood working can take up a lot of space in a home and cause unnecessary dust and dirt. To combat this, many wives are suggesting their husbands do these hobbies out in the steel garage. This gives men a place to work that they won’t have to clean up every time they step away and keeps dust and dirt away from the house.

6. Place for Home Storage

Old couches, Christmas décor and old toys can all be stored out of the way in a dry and protected place when they are stored in a metal storage shed or garage. These storage buildings can house all the extra home items you don’t have room for, don’t need to be used at the moment and don’t want to get rid of.

7. Pool House

Storage sheds as a pool house offers a place to change for the outdoor pool can house a Jacuzzi or even just store the pool supplies out of the way but close to your outdoor pool.

8.  At-Home Gym

Going to a gym can be time consuming and expensive but using your storage shed as a workout area allows for easy access, no travel time, no membership fees and complete work out privacy.

9.  Mediation Area

Steel garages can easily be turned into a place of relaxation and mediation that can be accessed year round. A storage shed is the perfect place to perform morning mediation, yoga and pray and also offers a secluded place to relax and study.

10. Guest House

If you need some extra space for those guests on the way, convert the steel storage shed. With a few modifications, these metal garages can transform in to a spacious temporary living quarters for visiting family and friends.

By Aluminum Storage Buildings • Carports • Enclosed Garages • Enclosed Steel Garages • Keen's Reputation • Metal Buildings • Metal Garages • Metal Sheds • Metal Storage Buildings • Sheds • Storage Buildings • Storage Sheds • • • • • • • • 0 Comments

Storage Shed Accessories and Features to Purchase with Your Metal Garage

Purchasing a storage shed is a wise choice and there are several uses and reasons to buy a metal storage garage. Whether for storage or used for a woodworking shop, the accessories to storage sheds are just as important. There several accessories to go inside of or customize your storage garage to fit your specific needs and we’ve created a short list of the most used customizable shed accessories.

Benches

Benches are perfect for the gardener who is storing gardening supplies in her storage shed or using it as greenhouse in the winter. Benches make good resting spots as well as storage places for smaller items like gloves and hand shoves. Benches are also nice if the garage has been converted to a man cave and requires extra seating.

Ramps

Ramps are a great addition to metal garages that are housing RVs, cars, four wheelers, and other motorized vehicles. They allow for smooth pulling into a metal storage garage and reduce the risks of injury when stepping into the shed.

Lofts

Lofts in a metal storage shed offer owners extended overhead space for more storage of items they may not use regularly. Christmas décor, old children’s toys, etc… all could be stored in overheard lofts and the storage shed protects them from the elements while providing extra space below for larger or more used items.

Windows

When storage sheds are used as play or hobby areas, some owners like to have a window to look out of or to peek in on the children at play. Windows can be installed in custom sheds and are also great in metal garages used to house large animals like livestock and horses.

Skylights

Skylights are also a custom option that is great for air circulation in the hot summers and for light in the winter months. Some owners like them for when they use their storage shed as a greenhouse to provide natural light for the plants.

Shelves

Adding a shelving unit to your shed is a great idea when the metal garage is being used for storage, as a hobby area or as a car shop. Shelves that are accessories to metal garages can be built in to prevent falling over and the ruining of other property so if you think you may want shelves, purchase them with your metal storage shed.

Work Benches

Work benches provide work areas for the gardener, mechanic, woodworker and toy train maker among many others. Adding a work bench to your metal storage shed is a smart choice if you plan on using your garage for activities that could benefit from a stable and flat working area.

Security & Temperature Control

For valuable items, being stored in a metal garage, it may be wise to get a custom accessory of security cameras. For items that are temperature sensitive, another accessory to consider is the option of temperature control.  Both of these options may be good considerations if you are using your storage garage as a play place for children. It keeps them safe from heat stroke or being too cold and allows you as a caring adult to keep an eye on them without needing to be in the shed with them.

Storage Shed Accessories

No matter your reason for owning a metal storage shed, be sure to check out the accessory options they come with so all your needs can be met.

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How to Spot Quality Sheds

Once you’ve made the decision to install a shed, there are a number of elements that deserve close inspection to make sure you are getting a high quality structure that will stand up to the rigors of harsh weather and years of use. You need to rely on your shed to protect your valuable possession from heat, light, rain, snow, and more. We understand a shed can be an investment, so you need to make sure you’re investing in something that will last.

So how do you spot a quality shed? How do you know the structure you’re putting up is really going to last? There are a few things you should consider to make sure you get the kind of storage shed you really need.

Materials – It all starts with the materials. It won’t matter how many braces, screws, and 2x4s you put into the shed if the materials you use are second-rate. All wood should be treated to resist moisture and warping, and the steel should be solid, reliable, and rust resistant.

Structural Integrity – What is holding the shed together? Are the components connected by nails or screws? How far apart are the studs spaced? Your shed can take a beating over the years, so you need to know that it has a sound design and will stand up to even the harshest conditions.

The Floor – If you choose a wood floor, it should be pressure treated and sealed so any moisture that gets inside won’t cause it to warp or rot.

The Walls – In a wood structure, the studs should be placed just like they are in a house. The 2x4s should be spaced at regular intervals and provide enough support to hold up the exterior plywood. In steel sheds, the structure may be designed differently, so you just need to make sure that it is solid and stable enough for the job.

The Roof – Just like the walls, there needs to be sufficient rafters to anchor the plywood roof and prevent warping and sagging over the years. The types of shingles you use are also important. You should make sure they are rated to last for 25 years or more.

The Exterior – Siding is about more than just appearance. This is a critical part of the shed that helps keep out the elements. The siding should keep out moisture and heat, and, if possible, match the look of the rest of your home. (Yes, there is definitely still an aesthetic element to this.) Vinyl siding is easier to clean and maintain than wood, but you go with wood you need to make sure it was properly treated to withstand the weather.

The Doors – Your doors should be solid, lockable, and durable. If they begin to sag or deform over the years, it will get extremely inconvenient to use them down the road.

A lot of elements have to come together to create a strong, reliable shed, so as you look through the many options, be sure you consider it from every angle. We want to help you get the one that will safely hold all your valuable items for years to come, which is why we only use the highest quality materials and construction.

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5 Reasons Why Sheds are Worth the Buy

Outdoor storage sheds may seem like they’re not important or even worth the purchase.  Sheds however can do a lot more than just store things.  There are 5 reasons on why outdoor storage sheds are important.

Here’s a breakdown of each reason:

1. Protect Assets– Yes, If the shed is built well, like our sheds at keensbuildings.com you’ll notice that anything stored in the shed will be protected from the external forces mother nature can bring. Over time you’ll pay a lot of money for tools and equipment that you’ll use around your house. This will protect equipment from rusting and all other sorts of external damage the equipment can face. With a keensbuilding shed you’ll be able to protect everything stored in it.  Our sheds are very tough, strong, and long lasting, making it an investment that overtime can carry a return by just protecting all of your equipment.

2. More added interior space– With all of the clutter we tend to purchase these days, it can be very annoying to have clutter all around the house. Sheds can clear up the clutter with the extra storage space.  This is actually very mentally clearing and it will benefit the mind emotionally. More space is always a beautiful thing!

3. Make your home or business look great- Here at keens buildings we actually try to make our sheds look great. We know looks aren’t everything but they can add value to the look of your home or business.  Sheds can then help your real estate just look great.  For example, if you have a lot of equipment in your garage and if that was all moved to the shed, it will make your garage look great and of course our sheds will make your house look great.

4.Organization- At Keens we have big outdoor storage sheds. These work miracles with organization. Our 12×24 shed is a great example… it’s huge and with all of this space, you can organize all of your stuff so well. Whether if it’s for office storage, or equipment storage, this will be the best out storage investment you’ll ever make.

5. Portability –  Besides the amazing amount of added space, storage sheds can be portable. No need to fear your next move. This shed can be your lifetime real estate with its easy ability to move.

All of these benefits are just reasons on why it might actually be worth the buy the next time you get frustrated when you know you need extra added space around.