Metal storage sheds are, without a doubt, an excellent and affordable option for backyard storage. When you purchase quality steel storage shed, you can easily use it for decades with minimal maintenance needed. At a glance, most metal sheds can look quite similar, but a more critical eye can observe the difference between a quality product and a dud.
Depending on its size and metal quality, a good metal shed could cost anywhere between $4,000 to $18,000. Because metal sheds can last for several decades, conducting thorough research to make the best investment possible is essential.
With most metal sheds, you will get what you pay for. Quality metal sheds are made of durable metal to fend against the elements. Unlike quality sheds, cheaper options tend to damage easily and do not have the material quality to endure the elements.
What are the Different Types of Building Codes?
Before you consider installing a metal shed on your property, you must ensure it complies with proper building codes. A structure must adhere to two types of building codes: international building codes and local building codes. The main difference between these codes can boil down to structural resilience and major damage if a disaster occurs.
Most towns and cities adhere to the International Building Code (IBC), a base standard that all buildings must comply with. However, the local code will be more specific to the region in which you are installing your shed. For example, areas frequented by hurricanes will have additional code requirements to ensure the structure anchors to the ground.
Certain contractors only adhere to local code to save upfront costs and to take advantage of the less strict code. In comparison, many contractors will comply with the more stringent international code to ensure the highest safety grade. Your metal shed stands a better chance at avoiding structural failure by enforcing standards made by local and international codes.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Who is Responsible for Getting the Permit?
It is the property owner who is solely responsible for obtaining the permits required to install the shed. Having a permit will ensure the installation process runs as smoothly as possible. Failure to obtain a permit could mean that the structure will not comply with the appropriate codes. Not complying with the proper codes could mean more money spent.
2. Do You Know Your Zoning Regulations?
You generally do not need a building permit for a smaller shed, such as a 6×8 or an 8×10. However, larger storage buildings may present stricter zoning regulations. Getting to know the zoning regulations in your community can be as quick as an internet search.
You can contact your community government representative via the internet or in person at your local municipal office. Remember that zoning regulations are in place for your community’s best interest. For example, if you live in a suburb, regulations may be in place to keep the general uniformity of appearance.
In addition to knowing your area’s zoning regulations, you should also be familiar with its zoning restrictions. For example, your town may have building requirements when it comes to height and square footage—knowing all of this information before the construction process will save you much money and time.
3. What Will be Evaluated in the Permit Approval Process?
Each country or municipality has different regulations when it comes to obtaining a permit. To best anticipate what will be evaluated, contact your local planning and building department. Before you call, make sure to have your property’s description and location on hand. Giving them this information will help them verify if the property falls in their jurisdiction.
4. Where Do I Get My Permit?
Unfortunately, this is dependent on where you live specifically. But, in general, you should be able to call your local county or city’s Building Codes Department to begin the permit process. They may even have simple online forms for your convenience.
5. What Else Do I Need To Obtain a Metal Building Permit?
After researching your county’s zoning laws and regulations, you can now apply for a permit to begin building your metal shed. There is typically a fee associated with the application process that varies by location.
Before receiving approval, they will evaluate the following factors of your shed;
- Height
- Width
- Square footage
- Building materials
- Wind loads
- Snow loads (If applicable)
- Electrical wiring
- Resistance to natural disasters
Why You Should Apply for a Building Permit
Getting a permit can, at times, be a lengthy process. Some may try to cut corners or forgo getting a permit altogether. This is not only unwise but can be potentially dangerous. Permits make sure that your shed is up to code and complies with the safety and structural standards of the area.
1. Safety is the first concern when applying for a permit. By enforcing proper safety standards, you guarantee the safest construction process possible.
2. Maintaining the integrity of your contractor is another important reason why you should obtain a building permit. Hiring a contractor without a permit can mean that they are more inclined to cut corners. This could mean structural and safety problems for your shed. Getting a permit will ensure that your contractor puts your safety first.
3. Having a permit keeps your insurance valid. Building a structure with a proper permit will become handy if somebody sustains an injury during construction. If there is no permit, insurance may not help cover the cost of the injury.
4. It’s valuable to have permits if you decide to sell your shed. However, if you decide you no longer want your metal shed, you must have the permit as legal proof. This will show proof that you performed all renovations in compliance with zoning regulations.
Obtaining a permit is ultimately a worthwhile investment to ensure your metal shed’s safety and structural resilience.
Contact Steel Carports for the Best Metal Storage Sheds
Having a metal storage shed can be a wonderful addition to your home, and we at Steel Carports, are more than happy to provide it for you! Steel Carports is the premier dealer of high-quality metal buildings and is committed to delivering complete customer satisfaction, every time Depending on your unique tastes, we can customize the shed’s size, materials, color, and more.
In addition, we are committed to offering superior craftsmanship, and we stand behind it with an industry-leading 20-year warranty. With fast, free delivery, you can have your metal shed delivered and installed by leading experts in construction in little time at all. So don’t delay; contact Steel Carports at (833) 647-8335 for your new custom metal shed today!