A tool shed can be very useful to have in your backyard. However, sometimes even the thought of re-organizing the shed can be daunting and seem like a lot of work. And when you realize that you have to move a tool shed, all of that stress is brought up to a new level. But, with the right tools and proper planning, the relocation of your tool shed can go over smoothly. This step-by-step guide should help you toward the goal of a successful tool shed relocation.
Contents
Why Would You Move A Tool Shed?
Before we get into the steps that have to be taken to relocate your tool shed, let’s go through some of the most common reasons why a person might want to do that.
Weather
Weather conditions are first on the list regarding why someone would want to move their tool shed. Firstly, if your shed stays in the same spot over the years, harsh sunlight can damage it. Prolonged UV exposure can chip away at its structural integrity. Moving it to a new area (even better if you reorient it as well) every few years can help you extend its lifespan.
In addition to sunlight, tool sheds can be susceptible to rain. This is especially true if the shed is on a slope since the rainwater can collect at its base and slowly ruin the foundation’s integrity.
Use space more efficiently
Another possible reason you might want to relocate your tool shed is that its current location is undesirable in some way. Perhaps it hinders your ability to use your yard in the most efficient possible method. Or the current location makes it difficult to approach and handle. Moving it will help you create a more efficiently organized yard.
Curb appeal
Moving your tool shed can increase the aesthetic appeal of your backyard. Moving it to a new area where it’ll shine and stand out more easily will help. Additionally, by helping with your yard’s efficiency, this project will make landscaping much easier.
Moving to a new home
Of course, the most common reason why someone would want to move a shed long distance is that they’re moving to a new home. If your current shed is custom-built or generally your personal property, you’ll likely want to bring it over to your new home.
Step 1 – Evaluate The Shed’S Movability
The first important thing to remember is that not every shed is suitable for relocation. This depends on a few crucial factors, the most notable being size, weight, and material. This is why you first have to assess how easy/difficult it will be to do this. The first thing you should do is measure the shed’s dimensions. In most cases, its movability should fit into one of these five categories.
Truck bed
Smaller sheds can usually fit into the back of a regular flatbed truck. This is usually the case with structures that are around 6 feet long. Additionally, since the sheds in this category are a lot lighter, they can usually be lifted by a few people. This reduces the necessity for special equipment.
Trailer bed
For bigger sheds (above 8 feet in size and a ton in weight) it’s a better idea to utilize an entire trailer for moving.
With a forklift
If the shed weighs less than half a ton, it might be easiest to move it using a forklift. One possible issue is that you might end up having to hire a certified forklift operator to help with this.
After disassembly
Taking your shed apart before relocating it can be very useful. While it may take more time, it can also save you money on special vehicles and equipment.
Not moveable
If it’s cemented to the ground, there might simply not be any way to move it. Your best option, in this case, is either to take it down and build a new one elsewhere or simply try to make the most of the current location it’s in.
Step 2 – Store Your Tools Elsewhere
Your next step is to empty your shed. Even with nothing in it, the structure can be hefty. This is why finding a place to store your tools is crucial until this project is done. This is especially important for expensive items like high-end power tools. You’ll have to find a way to keep your tools safe while the relocation continues.
Step 3 – Gather Shed Moving Supplies
Next, you’ll have to gather all the necessary tools and supplies to move a tool shed. If you plan to use the roll-over-pipes method, you’ll need about ten or more large PVC pipes. You’ll also need a standard home toolkit with all the necessary safety tools. And, of course, if the situation calls for it, you’ll need to rent out all of the required special equipment, such as a forklift.
Step 4 – Prep Its New Location
And to successfully move your tool shed, you’ll need a clear path for its transportation. This means that to prepare for moving it, you must also prepare its new location and the way to it. Mowing the grass, raking leaves and stones, and clearing away any larger debris are all great ideas.
In addition, you should take any easily damaged part of the shed off to prepare it for transportation. This means taking the doors off the hinges and removing window frames. By doing this, you’re ensuring that they don’t get damaged during transport.
Step 5 – Dig It Out
To move a tool shed that’s anchored to the ground, you’ll first have to dig it out. You can do this with some elbow grease and a shovel. Remember to add gripping points around the bottom of the shed when digging it out.
Step 6 – Move the Shed
You can finally load your shed onto your transportation (PVC pipes or vehicle) and move it to its new location. If you’re moving into a new property, you must drive it there and unload it using the exact message you used to load it in reverse. Or, if you’re relocating it within your current yard, we recommend sticking to the roll-over-pipes method.
To Wrap Up
It’s important to remember that while it is a big job to move a tool shed, it’s not impossible. Make sure to save money wherever you can and prepare well in advance to avoid any unwanted surprises. For example, something you can do to stay as resourceful as possible is to save any sawdust created by this project and use it for something else. With the right tools and enough prep, this whole process can go over much easier than expected.