Deciding on a Detached Work Shop

No matter the size of your home, there always seems to be a need for more space. That’s where a backyard shop can come in handy. Whether you need more storage space, a work area, or even a home office, a custom shop can be built to your specific needs.

When considering this new area, you’ll need to determine what your lot can handle, how much yard you want to part with, and how the land is set up. Will grading be needed to provide a level surface for construction? How far will the shop be from the home?

From there, you’ll want to figure which utilities do you want available for the space. Will you want power in your shop? If so, you’ll want to make sure you have enough electricity to power the tools or toys you’ll be working with. Ask the builder if your current electrical panel has enough room for the added load. A work sink or even bathroom will require plumbing, including waste water removal.

If you’re planning on using the shop year-round, consider heating/cooling options as well. A storage space probably doesn’t need this option, but spending a few hours every day in the work area could get mighty cold in the winter.

Storage Space

There never seems to be enough room for our stuff, no matter the size of your home. Holiday decorations, yard tools, or even camping supplies. Once you know what you’ll be storing, you can figure out the size of the shed. Don’t forget about the door – a place for your lawnmower is great, unless you can’t fit it through the door. If you have a riding lawnmower or even a small tractor, an overhead door is a consideration, too.

Plan for shelving as well. Will you be using bins in the shed? Or will it be filled with irregular-sized items? Windows will allow natural light into the shed, especially if you’re not going to run power to the unit. Allow for enough floor space to move around the shed after it’s all filled up, too.

Work Space

Many of the same principles apply in a work shop, but you’ll need a work bench as well. Will you want to store your tools in a tool chest, on a peg board, or a combination of both. Plan ahead so you won’t have to scramble for room once the space is completed. Electricity is a must for any work area, too.

For larger jobs – automobile repair or maintenance for example – you’ll want to make sure the floor is capable of handling the extra weight. Check with local ordinances for the appropriate amount and strength of concrete. The footprint of this type of work area is important too. You’ll need to be able to walk around the car, especially if your tools are kept in a rolling tool box.

Office Space

If your shop is a place for your office, needs are a little different. You could probably get a way with plywood walls and exposed framing studs in a storage shed, but a home office should be considered as an extension of the home. Insulation, drywall, and maybe tile or hardwood flooring will make the area more comfortable. Even the placement of the desk is important if you want to take advantage of the natural light during the day. Having access to the internet or wifi is a must as well.

Whether you need an area for your lawn tools and Christmas decorations, or a three-bay garage for your home business, Rain Creek Construction as the custom shop for you. Contact us today for more information, or review our custom shop floorplans.