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What Property Owners Need to Know About Prepping for a New Outbuilding

by Dianne Drinkwater 05/29/2022

Outbuilding popularity exploded in recent years. Homeowners have latched on to innovative ways to utilize designs that now include front porches, lofts and solar-powered energy attached to roofs. Often resembling small houses, these buildings can be converted into large playhouses for children, workshops and a private escape.

While pre-fabricated buildings allow homeowners a convenient alternative to spending leisure hours doing construction, there are ways to lower expenses. One of the more cost-effective ways to have an outbuilding delivered is to prepare the space yourself. By avoiding some common mistakes and investing a little sweat equity, a handy do-it-yourselfer won't need to spend additional money.

Common Outbuilding Mistakes to Avoid

The idea that an outbuilding company will simply deliver the structure in a convenient location holds true. Building movers will most definitely place your new barn, shed or workshop where you tell them. It's essential to conduct some due diligence rather than endure problems afterward. Consider the following when assigning a place for your building.

      • Property Lines: Local zoning regulations usually require new structures to be set back from property lines. The reasons often include things like potential fires spreading and abutters enjoying the peaceful use of their land. Check zoning regulations before placing an outbuilding. Placing one too close to the line can result in a fine and order to move it.
    • Low Land: It's crucial to avoid placing an outbuilding on low ground. Such areas are likely to suffer pooling surface water. Moist ground could result in the footings sinking unevenly and frustrating your use. Consider reviewing the landscape's grade before choosing a location.
    • Direct Sunlight: Outbuildings function like homes regarding heat and cold. Placing one in full sunlight can be a boon if you plan to include solar panels on the roof. But stick-built and metal structures can bake in the summer sun, turning the interior into an oven. A plan that includes oversized vents or a modest air-conditioning unit may help moderate temperatures.

    When ordering a pre-fabricated outbuilding, don't hesitate to ask the building outfit questions about placement and issues common to your area. Things such as flood plains, intense wind, soil composition and other factors may influence how a structure is positioned.

    How to Prepare for a New Outbuilding

    Preparing a spot in your backyard for an outbuilding can range from simple to elaborate. The following are common ways you can get the space ready.

    • Concrete Blocks: Big box home materials outlets usually sell concrete shed and outbuilding footings. Certain products have seams for the building floor joists or underside support to fit into them. These prefab items generally work well with relatively small sheds. Property owners measure precisely where each footing needs to be placed, tamp down the ground and set them in place.
    • Timber & Gravel: If you are concerned about water pooling or pests taking up residence under the outbuilding, a 4x4 pressure-treated foundation is a good option. Level the ground and configure it so the building's outer supports sit directly on the timbers. Secure them together and recheck everything is level. Fill in the center with gravel for water filtration.
    • Pour a Slab: One of the simplest and more cost-effective preparation methods involves poured concrete. A 4- to 6-inch slab with rebar ranks among the most secure ways to prep the land. Handy DIYers can dig down a few inches and set 2x4s forms for a small shed. Larger structures may require footings and the help of a construction professional.

    Make sure to consider the above issues when planning your outbuilding project. It's always a property owner's best interest to discuss ground preparation items unique to your area with a professional.

About the Author
Author

Dianne Drinkwater

Dianne is a full time, full service, state licensed Realtor®, member of Northeast Florida Regional Association of Realtors® (NEFAR), St. Augustine/ St.Johns County Board of Realtors, National Association of Realtors® (NAR), Florida Association of Realtors® (FAR), and Northeast Florida Regional Multiple Listing Service And St. Augustine/St. Johns (MLS), Shearwater Certified, and Military on the Move Designation.

She provides a unique blend of leadership, sales acumen, project management, technology, and world class customer relation skills to enhance Watson Realty Corporation's values in the real estate sales and mortgage marketplace. She is a decisive take action solution-oriented professional with 25+ years of progressive business experience who efficiently utilizes technology to improve results. She has lived in the St. Augustine/Jacksonville area since 2005 and has seen the area continue to flourish and stays well informed of future growth plans within Northeast Florida. 

Let's take a look at the lighter side of Dianne. She loves life is artistic loves music, the arts, yoga and genealogy! She loves to explore and hates to be bored. She loves the outdoors, especially plant life and wildlife. She has been a Master Gardener in Florida and Maine; as a photography enthusiast she has the eye to spot the perfect shot, which spills over to the photos she makes of the properties she markets AND frequently hires the best specialized real estate photographers/drone and videographers who make the difference in the sale. And, she loves to share her knowledge of the local real estate market and all aspects of the process to guide you through each step as a coach rather than a salesperson. 

So, let's sum it up. Buying or selling your home is an important life decision. Reasons can vary greatly from change of lifestyle, to relocation or life challenges. You need someone you can trust, count on, respect and help shoulder the stress, anxiety and time commitment involved. Doesn't this sound like someone you want working for you? 

So, what's the next step? Contacting Dianne of course. It is all about YOUR needs, goals, timeline and DREAMS! She's here to help you achieve them and she looks forward to hearing from you. 

What are you looking for in a Realtor? - Someone who will really listen to your wants and needs? Someone who will expertly market your home until the SOLD sign adorns your front lawn or if you are a buyer tirelessly researches your wish list to find that perfect home? - How about someone who will always be honest, holds ethics in high regard as a realtor, who works aggressively to get you the best price for your home and someone who knows the market? 

Selling or buying a home is a partnership with your trusted advisor- Dianne Drinkwater