Improve the looks of a storage shed

Many storage sheds are built in backyards, but never integrated into the yard itself.  By that I mean most storage sheds tend to look like an afterthought -- sort of like a "big box with a roof" fell from the sky and landed in the yard.

This instructable focuses on how I started with a new storage building and integrated it into the overall landscaping of my backyard.

The materials I used included:

- 2x6 treated lumber for building a 5' x 12' deck
- 2x6 treated lumber for the ramp
- several concrete stepping stones to level the deck
- shutters and window boxes for the storage building
- approximately 20 bags of shredded wood mulch
- steel landscaping edging
- various landscaping plants
- a drip irrigation system
- primer & paint

I didn't list the quantities of lumber & edging that I used, because that will vary depending on how large a person wants the deck, and what they need in terms of landscaping.

Step 1: Prepare and paint the shed

In my case I began with a new, unpainted shed.  So, my first task was to caulk all joints -- all except the underside of horizontal joints.  You want to leave the underside of all horizontal joints open to prevent moisture from being trapped.

I also calked each and every nail to prevent moisture from seeping in over time.

Once all calking was dry, I put a coat of primer on the trim, followed by two coats of trim paint.  The siding was pre-primed, so I simply applied two coats of exterior latex on it.

Whether you are starting with a new shed or working with an old one, getting a good, protective layer of paint is critical.  No shed looks good with peeling paint and rotting trim.

Comments

[manuka]

As windows are the "eyes" of a building, consider adding more of them to make a structure look more homely. Most sheds are black holes inside when the door is shut, & improved interior illumination helps you locate things (!!) or work/shelter indoors during bad weather. \

Even a translucent roof panel can greatly improve daytime illumination, & it's not so prone to breakage by intruders either.

[peterfoote]

Great job on your shed, you really gave me some ideas on how to "jazz" mine up a bit. Well done!

[knife141]

Thanks for the kind words! Good luck with your "jazzing up" project!

[gwrober]

Great 'able - looking for ideas for my shed, I think I may do most of these. Great work!

[knife141]

Thanks for the compliment. Good luck with your shed!

[ksellars1]

Excelent work! I love it! Thanks for adding this..I have a new shed in my backyard..and I have been scouring the internet for ideas on how to integrate it into the garden. Thanks again!

[knife141]

This is an easy project, because it can be divided into as many segments as you wish. In my case, I built the ramp and the deck in one day and installed the edging and dug the beds a few days later. A bit later I installed a drip irrigation system for the plants, so now I don't have to stand in the sun on a hot day with a hose! Good luck with your project.

[ksellars1]

Absolutley Love It!!!

[packniam]

At first I thought the "Warehouse 13" thing was a little cheesy, but now that I've seen your lawnmower, I would be worried too. And by worried I mean I would be asking to borrow it all the time. This is probably the best part of the design! And your shed as a whole is amazing!

[caarntedd]

Great work, I might see if I can do something like this with an old tin shed I have stored away behind the garage.

[oakironworker]

Great job and idea

[Kiteman]

Yay, sheds!