We have helped our clients design literally hundreds of sheds over the years and this is our comprehensive list of everything we believe is essential to the process. Everyone will place a different weight on different aspects, but no element should go ignored.
Make sure it is large enough to accommodate your storage needs.
When considering a garden shed, choosing the right size is crucial. A shed that is too small won't be able to accommodate all of your tools and equipment, while a shed that is too big will take up valuable space in your backyard and can be a costly investment. To help minimize footprint while maximizing storage, our standard front wall height is a full 8' tall. This gives you plenty of extra storage space for shelves or hanging things from the exposed rafters. We prefer to build our structures in 2' increments to reduce waste (8x8, 12x8, etc.) but we can build custom to any unique footprint you need.
We specialize in modern sheds, but our Essential, Cube, and Ecosheds all have unique styles.
When it comes to selecting a style of shed, there are many factors to consider, including functionality, aesthetics, and budget. Consider the overall aesthetic of your backyard. You want the shed to complement the existing style of your home and outdoor space. If you have a modern home, a sleek, contemporary shed may be a good fit, while a more rustic or traditional shed may be better suited to a more traditional home. All of our designs will easily handle the snow load of any city in Ontario, so please don't be afraid to order a Cube for your home in Ottawa!
We offer wood, steel and composite materials.
When selecting the material for a shed, it's important to consider factors such as durability, maintenance requirements, and aesthetics. Determine your budget. Different materials come with different costs, so you'll need to consider how much you're willing to spend before making a decision. Think about the maintenance requirements. Some materials require more upkeep than others, so you'll want to choose a material that you're comfortable maintaining. Evaluate the aesthetics of the material. The material you choose will impact the overall look of your shed, so you'll want to select one that complements the style of your home and outdoor space. Consider the lifespan of the material. Some materials, such as wood, may require more frequent replacement than other materials, such as metal or vinyl.
If you'd like to know more about the benefits or drawbacks give us a call! We're happy to help you make a more informed decision.
We offer single slope and flat roofs.
A single slope roof, also known as a mono-pitched roof, slopes in one direction and is higher on one side than the other. This style of roof is often chosen for sheds that need to shed water or snow in a particular direction. Additionally, a single slope roof can add visual interest and dimension to the shed, giving it a more modern and contemporary feel. On the other hand, a flat roof is a more traditional option for sheds and is often chosen for its simplicity and affordability. A flat roof is easier to install and maintain, and can also provide additional storage or workspace on top of the shed. Ultimately, the decision between a single slope roof and a flat roof for a shed will depend on personal preference and the specific needs of the shed.
We offer asphalt roofs in one or two-ply applications, steel roofs, and EPDM for our cube models.
Choosing the right roofing material for a shed is important to ensure that the shed is protected from the elements and lasts for many years. There are several factors to consider when selecting a roofing material for a shed, including durability, cost, maintenance, and aesthetics.
One popular option for shed roofing is our roll-out roofing with a self adhering membrane. This roofing is affordable and easy to install. However, they may require occasional maintenance, such as cleaning and repairs, and may not be the most durable option for extreme weather conditions.
Metal roofing is another popular option for shed roofs. It is durable, long-lasting, and requires little maintenance. Metal roofing is a great option for sheds in areas with harsh weather conditions. However, it can be more expensive than other roofing materials and may not be as visually appealing as other options.
Our Cube sheds and studios come with an EPDM roofing system. It's self adhering, extremely durable, and the same roof system used in commercial applications like factories or schools.
Ultimately, the best roofing material for a shed will depend on individual needs and preferences. It's important to consider factors such as climate conditions, budget, and maintenance requirements when selecting a roofing material for a shed.
Our standard option is a single sliding barn door, upgrades to a double barn door, swing door, patio door or french doors are also available.
Choosing the right door for a garden shed is an important decision as it affects both the functionality and the aesthetics of the shed. When deciding what type of door to choose, there are several factors to consider, such as the size of the shed, the intended use of the shed, and personal preferences.
One important consideration is the size of the door. If the shed is going to be used to store large items such as lawnmowers or bicycles, a larger door may be necessary to accommodate these items. Additionally, if the shed is going to be used as a workspace or hobby room, a door that allows natural light to enter the space may be preferable.
The style of the door is also an important consideration. Hinged doors are a traditional choice for sheds and come in a variety of styles and sizes. Sliding doors are another popular option, particularly for larger sheds or sheds with limited space. They can be easier to operate than hinged doors and can provide a larger opening for easier access.
Ultimately, the type of door chosen for a garden shed will depend on the individual's needs and preferences. It's important to consider factors such as size, material, and style when making a decision to ensure that the chosen door meets the functional and aesthetic requirements of the shed.
We're happy to accommodate all your widow needs!
When it comes to selecting window sizes and placements for a garden shed, there are several factors to consider. First and foremost, the intended use of the shed is an important consideration. If the shed will be used as a workspace, hobby room, or for plants, ample natural light is essential.
The size of the shed and the available wall space will also play a role in determining the size and placement of the windows. For smaller sheds, a single window may be sufficient, while larger sheds may require multiple windows to allow for adequate light and ventilation.
Another consideration is the surrounding landscape and the orientation of the shed. Placing windows on the south-facing side of the shed can maximize natural light, while placing them on the north-facing side can help prevent overheating during the summer months.
It's also important to consider the type of window and its functionality. For example, awning or casement windows can provide increased ventilation, while fixed windows may be more suitable for providing natural light without the need for ventilation.
Our standard front wall height for sheds in 8' and 9' for studios. Custom heights are also available!
Deciding on the wall and overall height for your structure can depend on a few factors. One important consideration is the intended use of the shed. If the shed will be used for storage only, a lower wall height may be sufficient. However, if the shed will be used as a workspace, hobby room, or for plants, a higher wall height may be necessary to accommodate taller equipment, shelving, or plants.
Another factor to consider is the available space and zoning regulations in your area. Local building codes may specify a maximum wall and overall height for sheds, so it's important to research these regulations before making a decision.
Check out our style guide for information about our colour choices!
Backyard Escape Studios is the best place to go when you're looking for lots of colour options! We can stain our pine and barn doors in a variety of different colours and the steel siding we offer also comes in over 30 different colour options! Add to that our new siding material Chamclad and you'll be able to mix and match colour options until you find the absolute perfect fit for your backyard!
In our opinion, concrete is king.
The type of foundation you choose for your shed can impact its stability, durability, and longevity. Here are some of the benefits of different shed foundation types:
All of our studios and sheds come equipped with locks.
If you're looking to upgrade the security of your shed let us know! Our swing doors can be ordered with an extra bore for a deadbolt or we can even give you an upgrade with full multi-point locking hardware.
Choosing the right shelving and space-saving options can help you maximize the storage space in your shed and keep it organized. Here are some factors to consider when selecting shelving and space-saving options for your shed:
By considering these factors, you can choose the right shelving and space-saving options for your shed to help you maximize storage space and keep your items organized and easily accessible.
We don't currently offer lighting solutions for sheds, but here are some things to consider.
When it comes to choosing lighting options for your backyard shed, there are several factors to consider, such as the size of the shed, the type of activities that will take place inside, and the location of the shed. Here are some good lighting options:
We offer vents for general humidity as well as pool equipment.
Proper ventilation is crucial for any backyard shed to prevent mold, mildew, and unpleasant odors from building up. Here are some good venting options for a backyard shed:
When selecting venting options for your backyard shed, it's important to consider the climate in your area, the size of your shed, and the materials used in the construction of the shed. Proper ventilation will help keep your shed dry, reduce humidity, and extend the life of your shed.
We offer foam board insulation and fiberglass insulation.
Insulating your backyard shed can help regulate the temperature, keep the interior dry and prevent mold growth. We offer:
When selecting insulation options for your backyard shed, it's important to consider the climate in your area and the intended use of the shed. Insulation can make a big difference in the comfort and usability of your shed, especially during extreme weather conditions.
Making sure that your backyard shed is accessible is an important consideration when planning your shed project. Here are some tips to help ensure accessibility:
By taking these factors into consideration, you can ensure that your backyard shed is accessible for everyone who needs to use it.
We always aim for the easiest maintenance possible.
Like any other outdoor structure, garden sheds also require maintenance to ensure their longevity and functionality. Here are some maintenance requirements for a shed:
By following these maintenance requirements, you can ensure that your backyard shed remains functional and lasts for years to come.
You get what you pay for.
There are many factors that go into the price of our designs. Seemingly small things, like changing from a barn door to a swing door will change the price of your project by hundreds of dollars. When working with Backyard Escape Studios keep in mind our quality is reflected in our price. We're always happy to work with our clients to adjust design elements and help them reach their ideal price point, however all of our units start from a base that is already very high in quality compared to the competition. Do you want a cheap option that will fade, rot and become infested with insects or rodents in the next 5 years? Or would you rather invest in quality craftsmanship that will keep your shed standing tall and looking beautiful with minimal maintenance for decades to come.
From lumber to stain, eco-friendly options are at the core of what we do.
When building or designing a shed, there are several eco-friendly options to consider that can reduce its impact on the environment. Here are some eco-friendly options to consider:
By incorporating eco-friendly options into your shed design, you can reduce your environmental impact and create a sustainable backyard space.
We offer a unique amount of customization in the pre-fab space.
What's custom about our designs?
All our units come pre-fabricated as we believe it is the most efficient process.
There are several different types of shed assembly options to consider when purchasing a garden shed.
At Backyard Escape studios we combine these options to take the best from each world. We take your custom designs, prefabricate your build in panels at our shop in Port Stanley, and then ship it out and install it ourselves with one of our professional installation teams.
Several factors can affect a shed's resistance to pests, including the construction materials, location, and maintenance.
By considering these factors, it is possible to increase a shed's resistance to pests and help ensure it remains a pest-free space.
There a few main factors that go into choosing the perfect location for your new structure.
What specific purpose are you looking to serve?
All of our structures are designed well enough to be used for so much more than just storage. They can safely house expensive pool equipment or bikes. The can be used as an effective workshop place to start your gardening seedlings. They can be upgrades to a Studio like many of our customers do and used as a backyard gym, office or yoga studio. Or simply for more leisure space for the entire family to enjoy.
See more info on our bylaws page.
When researching local bylaws do a search on your municipalities' website for the term "accessory structure". This will help you find out everything you need know about what height, footprint, and property line distance. You can always give us a call if you're unsure how to navigate these documents, we're happy to help you make sure that your design follows all of the rules and you don't have to worry about hefty fines or having your shed torn down.