A shed is not limited to just being a storage space. You can use one of Glick Structures’ custom-built sheds in many ways, including a workshop space for your passion projects. Sheds are great structures for workshops as they are easily built, durable, and give you a space away from your home to work peacefully. Setting up a workshop is simple. Here is everything you need to know about how to turn a shed into a workshop.
Obtain the Right Permits
Building permits in Pennsylvania are generally needed for sheds larger than 1,000 square feet, but some cities require them for sheds larger than 200 square feet. In addition to the building permit you’ll need to obtain to build the shed on your property, you’ll have to get zoning permits to ensure it is built in an appropriate place. Your workshop will also need electricity, which will require electrical permits to ensure all work is done up to code. Your local municipal department will have all the information you’ll need on permit requirements.
Install Sturdy Floors
If you’re not using the shed for storage, you’ll need to reinforce the floors so you can work in it. For a storage shed, a crushed stone foundation is adequate, but for a workshop, we recommend building a concrete foundation. You’ll need a sturdy floor that will withstand the heavy equipment you may need inside the workshop. The floor needs to be flat and smooth so the workspace is stable. A concrete foundation makes the base level, so you can install a reinforced floor in the shed.
Insulate Your Shed
Insulation is crucial for year-round usability of your shed workshop. Have proper insulation in the walls, floor, and ceiling of your shed to regulate the temperature inside. It will prevent heat from getting inside during Pennsylvanian summers, keeping the structure cool. Insulation also reduces the amount of heat loss and dampness in the shed during the winter. When your shed is properly insulated, it will reduce the amount of condensation buildup inside the structure, so mold and mildew grow less frequently. Additionally, insulation will provide some soundproofing in your workshop if you’re working with noisy equipment. For more information on shed insulation, check out our Types of Insulation for Sheds blog.
Have Proper Air Circulation
Installing ventilation in the shed will provide more air circulation. Having good air circulation will prevent moisture buildup by continually moving air around. This is necessary for a workshop to maintain a healthy environment inside the structure. We offer windows, ridge vents, and gable vents to provide ventilation for your shed. They allow hot air to escape but don’t let in additional moisture. Windows will also let in cool fresh air for the space while making it feel more open and bright. In our experience, we’ve found that you’ll need air circulation around the whole structure to maintain temperature; you can improve this by reducing the amount of vegetation around the shed.
Add Workshop Organization
Organization is essential for a workshop space. Create a dedicated workshop by adding organizational elements to simplify work. We offer many different options for your shed that will make your workshop run smoothly. Add a workbench for a designated station to do bulk work. Build shelves, pegboards, and cabinets to keep all your tools organized and easily accessible.
Install Electric and HVAC
If you’re using a shed as a workshop, you’ll need to install electricity and HVAC systems. These systems will make your workshop more functional.
Electric
Electricity will expand the use of the shed, making it usable at night and during the winter. When installing electricity, make sure you plan accordingly where you’ll need your power outlets hooked up to make the workspace run more easily. We recommend having a professional install this, and we offer electrical packages for easy installations.
HVAC
When installing an HVAC system, you will need an electric hookup for it to work. HVAC is necessary when using a shed as a workshop because it will make the space comfortable to work in. It provides air circulation, heating during cold Pennsylvania winters, and air conditioning during the summer.
Build a Shed Workshop with Glick Structures
Glick Structures offers many different shed styles that are perfect for creating a workshop. Our sheds are built with premium, durable materials that will withstand Pennsylvania weather. We offer multiple shed options for a productive workshop that is uniquely yours. Check out our in-stock inventory to purchase a pre-built shed, or design a custom shed with our 3D Builder. All our sheds come with a 5-year warranty to protect your investment. If you have any questions, feel free to contact us. We look forward to working with you!
