Are you planning to redesign your backyard, or maybe you are moving to a new home and want to take your storage shed with you? Moving your storage shed is easy if you prepare it before relocating it and if you ensure that you have the right tools for the job. Careful preparation and planning before the move will eliminate possible problems in the future.
Commonly known as a garden shed, this common garden storage structure is used primarily as self-storage for tools and equipment such as lawn mowers, power tools, ladders and other household items like bikes. It is also sometimes used as a workshop or an activity area. The materials used for sheds usually vary, depending on the design and location but the most popular are timber, steel, and plastic.
Homeowners today look at converting their garden space and garden storage to additional work or garage space to reduce garden maintenance costs or to maximize the use of their space.
Reasons for Relocating your Garden Shed
There are various reasons why you may want to relocate your garden shed. Here are some of them:
Move
According to ABS (Australia Bureau of Statistics) data in 2016-2017, about 376,700 people moved somewhere interstate. Moving means going through your possessions and trying to evaluate what should be left behind and what should be brought along. Most people will leave their shed behind but some might have invested a lot in their shed and want to bring it along.
House or Garden Upgrade
When upgrading the house, some may also want to upgrade the overall design of the garden. As such, some may decide to move the shed to a sunnier spot or to maximize the space and extend the home.
Tips for Relocating your Garden Storage
Prepare your shed for the move
a. Check the condition of the shed if it can withstand a move or if it is better to buy a new one.
b. Before moving the shed, make sure that it is empty. Remove all the equipment inside to lessen the load. This is also the best time to go through your possessions and throw out junk. Remove the windows because lifting the shed might cause shifting, which will break the glass.
c. Check the weather forecast before emptying your shed. Rain will make the move slippery and wet and winds may make the structure unstable.
d. Secure the shape of the shed by nailing boards on the floor in an X pattern from corner to corner. Add additional support to weak areas like the doors and window openings.
e. If your shed has water, electricity, and other utilities, get a professional to disconnect these before the move.
f. Calculate the weight of the shed based on the materials used and the size of the shed. You may also refer to the original weight when you first bought it. Use the calculated weight in looking for a forklift and pay loader to use.
g. Dig access holes on the four corners and use jacks to lift the shed.
Prepare the new location before moving the shed
a. Before moving, plan how the shed will be placed in the new location. Measure the area and ensure that the space is adequate for the structure and for moving around the structure. You need space to move around especially during moving and cleaning.
b. Clear out all vegetation and make sure that the land is level and that a solid base is ready. The most recommended would be a rebated concrete slab to ensure effective water run off and provide the sturdy foundation for your shed structure.
Prepare the transport
a. If you are moving the storage shed across the city or to another city, you need to ensure that you are allowed to transport wide loads. Validate with your local public works and obtain a permit, if needed. Also check the building codes of the city where you are bringing your shed to make sure the shed is up to the standards. Take notice of electrical posts and other obstructions along the way. It is best not to try to transport the shed on your own, and do not underestimate its weight.
b. If you are just moving your garden storage in your own garden, make sure that the rollers and pipes you will use for moving are smooth and will be able to handle the load. If you are going to use a forklift to move the storage shed, ensure that you have done your research on the basics of how to use a forklift. The land should also be level to prevent tipping.
c. If it will be difficult to transport the shed intact, you may disassemble and then reassemble it. If you do decide to disassemble it, make sure you have the proper tools like a claw hammer, wrecking bar, angle grinder, and screw driver to remove screws.
Secure the shed
After successfully moving your shed to its new location, ensure that it is level and that the base is strong enough to support it even in extreme weather. Use concrete screws and bolt it down. Carefully remove the support bars from the floorboards and place back the windows.
Once you are done, you can now put your possessions back into the shed and organize them. Make sure you secure it with a lock to discourage thieves from going through your belongings.
Conclusion
Although it seems like the best idea to retain and relocate your existing shed, there are times when it is better to buy a new one or upgrade your existing garden shed. Some also do not like to be bothered with the preparation and moving of the shed. No matter what you need, EasyShed has the best option for you. EasyShed has a lifetime garden shed guarantee and is the only shed with an easy-to-follow, 5 Step Assembly if you choose to build the shed yourself. Best of all, you will need only a power drill to assemble your shed. Browse through our products today!
