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Storage Shed vs. Storage Unit

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As Americans, we tend to accumulate a lot of stuff over the years. From children’s toys to lawn care and vehicle care items, these items can take up a lot of space. However, in many cases, homeowners aren’t ready to part with these items. So what options do you have when you have too much stuff but not enough space to store it all?

It all comes down to whether a storage shed or a storage unit is the right solution for you.

The Pros and Cons of a Storage Shed vs. a Storage Unit

As you consider if a storage shed is right for you, or if the alternative of a storage unit is a better solution, you need to start by understanding any rules or restrictions in your neighborhood.

Suppose you live in an apartment or condo, or in a neighborhood with an association or other covenants that restrict the construction of a storage shed on your property. In that case, a storage unit is likely the right solution. Aside from that, there are several benefits to having a storage shed if one is allowable.

Five Benefits of a Storage Shed vs. a Storage Unit

  1. Convenience. Storage sheds provide the utmost in accessibility as they are located right on your property. This means that when you need something, all you need to do is walk around to your storage shed’s location in your backyard, unlock it, and take out when you need it. With a storage unit, not only do you need to hop in your car and make the drive over to it to get what you need but if you are storing something large, you might need to make arrangements to borrow a larger vehicle (if you do not have one) to transport back what you need. Not only that, but some storage units are harder to access during the evening hours.
  2. Increased property value. Should you ever decide to sell your home, or if you are looking to refinance and want to add a bit of value, then a well-organized an-property storage shed can benefit you. Potential homeowners will appreciate the opportunity to store their items right at home and will also like that they don’t have to build a new shed of their own.
  3. Cost. This might seem like it is counter-intuitive, but in the long run, a storage shed may very well cost you less. Most storage sheds cost somewhere between $500 to $5000 to build. The cost will vary based on the size, style, and features that you want with your shed. For example, a simple 8’ x 10’ shed with a roll-up door on one side will cost a lot less than a 12’ x 16’ shed (or larger) that has windows and multiple entry points. Though a storage unit will cost less to rent, that $50 to $100 each month will quickly add up. If you are paying $50 for your storage unit each month, you could easily pay off that storage shed in just a year or two. Add the cost of gas back and forth to your storage unit and the value of your time, and a storage shed becomes a much more cost-effective solution.
  4. Aesthetics. Believe it or not, a well-designed shed can actually become a beautiful focal point in your yard. Many homeowners select sheds that are a complimentary color to their home, and landscape around the exterior of the shed. This can add beauty and elegance to your backyard, all while storing your shovels, lawnmower, and kid’s toys neatly inside.
  5. Versatility. Storage sheds don’t have to be used for just storage, either. Many homeowners use their storage sheds for different purposes altogether such as for a man cave or she shed, for a children’s playhouse, or for a craft studio. Storage sheds can also be multi-purpose, storing your gardening tools on one side and serving as a potting shed on the other side.
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Don’t get us wrong; storage units serve an essential purpose. For many, a storage unit is the only way to go. Storage units often offer pest control and on-site or 24/7 monitored security, making them safe places to store your extra items.

If you have been contemplating one or the other, however, and you have the space for a storage shed on your property, you will likely be pleased with your decision to add one. Storage sheds help you clean up your clutter, increase your property value, add versatility based on your needs, are aesthetically pleasing, and are more affordable than you may think.

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