Author: clickgiant

What Size Carport Do You Need?

Posted on December 30, 2020 by - ACI, Blog

A new carport will make a great addition to your land, as it will provide you with a dry place to park or store various items. But what size carport do you need? With endless options available, it can be hard to settle on the best dimensions for your space. However, in this article, we’d like to help you make this important decision. By thinking carefully about a couple of key factors, you should be able to decide on dimensions rather quickly and confidently.

American Carports, Inc. has a variety of metal carports that are affordable, durable, fully customizable. Use our Build & Price Tool to explore the many possibilities for your new structure, and receive an instant quote!

Start by Looking at Your Land

The only place to start with this process is by looking at the space you have available for this new building. It doesn’t matter if you have dreams of building a huge carport for your collection of vehicles—if you don’t have the space available for that kind of structure, it isn’t going to work. So, as you evaluate your property and think about the size of your carport, keep the following points in mind:

  • Access. Most likely, you are going to want to drive in and out of the carport throughout the year, so keep access in mind as you make your plans. If it would be hard to reach the carport with your car, or hard to back out when you want to leave, that site might not be suitable.
  • Level land. You don’t have to start with a perfectly level site, but trying to build this project on the side of a hill would be more trouble than it’s worth.

Most likely, you’ll quickly find a spot on your property that is the obvious landing spot for the carport. Once you figure out where it’s going to go, take some measurements to determine how much space you have available. You won’t necessarily want to fill up that entire space, but these measurements will give you limits that you can work with as you finalize your plans.

How Many Cars?

If you are going to use this new carport for parking – as opposed to another use such as outdoor storage – you will need to think about how many cars are going to live in this space.

For a carport that is only going to serve a single vehicle, a 12’ wide carport should work nicely. That will be enough space to park and open the doors on both sides of the vehicle. If you move up to a double carport to park two cars, you’ll need something that is at least 18’ wide, if not larger. With American Carports, Inc., you can keep expanding the size of your carport design until you create a building that will serve your parking needs.

Other Important Considerations

As you know, vehicles come in all sorts of shapes and sizes. The size of the vehicles you own, or the size of the vehicles you plan to purchase in the future, will impact the size of the carport you select. For instance, a buyer who owns a couple of small sedans will not need as much space as someone who owns big trucks.

Remember to factor the height of your new carport into the equation, as well as the width. A standard passenger car or pickup truck will fit under virtually all carports, but you might need to add height to your structure if you own something tall like an RV. When in doubt, give yourself a little room to work with to make sure the carport is going to serve you properly well into the future. Adding a foot or two of height to the structure is only a modest upgrade in terms of investment, but it will make the carport more versatile.

Order Your New Carport Today!

Now that you have some direction for your carport sizing decision, the next step is to use our Build & Price tool to see what you can create. Or, if you’re still wondering what size carport you need, simply contact us for assistance. Either way, you’re only a few easy steps from an affordable, durable, attractive carport landing on your property. We’re excited to serve you!

Metal Carport Cost Guide

Posted on December 28, 2020 by - ACI, Blog

It’s easy to understand the appeal of a carport. After a quick installation process, you will have a covered space on your property that you can use for a variety of purposes. But how much do they cost? Fortunately, metal carports are surprisingly affordable, which is one of the many reasons they’re so popular. If you’re considering adding this structure to your property, be sure to use this metal carport cost guide.

American Carports, Inc. has a variety of metal carports that are affordable, durable, fully customizable. Use our Build & Price Tool to explore the many possibilities for your new structure, and receive an instant quote!

Understanding the Variables

There are a lot of variables to consider when determining the final price of your metal carport. As with any product, you can stick with a basic model for a relatively low price, or you can include additional features for a bigger investment. At American Carports, Inc., all of our carports are fully customizable—meaning you can keep the cost down with few features or spend more to get exactly what you want.

The list below highlights some of the main variables involved in determining the cost of your new carport:

  • The size of your carport will have a lot to do with the final price tag. As your carport gets bigger, the cost is going to go up, as more materials will be needed to create the structure. Also, a bigger carport is more likely to have other added features that will drive the price up. Fortunately, even a big carport is likely to be far more affordable than a similar structure built out of wood.
  • Metal gauge. At American Carports, Inc. we offer two different metal gauges for our carports: 12-gauge and 14-gauge. Since 12-gauge metal is thicker, it will be slightly more expensive. Of course, that thicker metal also creates a more rugged, durable product, so many of our buyers find that the investment is worth it in the long run.
  • Roof style. There are two general roof styles for metal carports: horizontal and vertical. A horizontal roof runs from front to back on the top of the carport, while a vertical roof has the panels run up and down from the side to the peak. A vertical roof will do a better job of shedding water, but it will be costlier.

Other factors will come into play in the pricing of your carport, such as your geographic location, but the above three are a good starting point.

Some Basic Numbers

Although we can’t offer you a specific price for your next carport because of the many variables discussed above, we can say that it is possible to get a new metal carport for around $1,000. Even if you opt for a bigger model with some added features, you’ll still find the cost to be quite manageable.

It’s important to remember that the cost to purchase the carport itself is only part of the equation. There is also the cost of site prep to consider, which is another reason to opt for metal over wood. With a wood building, you’ll likely need a much more formal foundation before you construct the carport. Metal carports require less foundation and can help keep costs down in this area, as well.

Maintenance Costs

Another important point regarding the cost of carports has to do with maintenance. Not only do you need to spend money to build a carport, but there is also ongoing maintenance to consider and the costs that come with it.

Owners of metal carports will appreciate the minimal maintenance they require. Other than a periodic washing to free it from built-up dirt and debris, you won’t need to do much to care for your carport. A wooden carport, on the other hand, comes with a variety of maintenance needs that can significantly add up cost-wise over the years. So, as you consider the cost of purchasing your metal carport, you won’t have to worry about spending much down the line to keep it in top condition.

Purchase a Metal Carport from American Carports, Inc.!

We hope this metal carport cost guide assists you. If you’ve decided that a metal carport fits your budget and is perfect for your needs, browse our available options from American Carports, Inc. We have a long track record of delivering quality steel structures to our many customers. If you’d like to see what’s possible with a custom design, try out this Build & Price tool at your convenience. We are excited to serve you!

Man Cave Shed Ideas

Posted on December 15, 2020 by - ACI, Blog, Carports

The popularity of the man cave concept is simple—it’s a great luxury to have an area that’s specifically designed for your enjoyment. Plus, your man cave doesn’t need to line up with anyone else’s definition of this kind of space, because the whole point is to design it to fit your unique needs. Explore these man cave shed ideas to gather some inspiration for your new structure!

American Carports, Inc. has a variety of steel sheds that are affordable, fully customizable, and ideal for your man cave project. Use our Build & Price Tool to explore the many possibilities for your new structure, and receive an instant quote!

Build a Bar

Are you wanting to create a man cave that will be the perfect place for you and your friends to hang out? Then you might consider building a bar in this new shed. Even a small space can be great for two or three people to relax and have a great time!

Of course, if you would like to build a bar, there will be some important decisions to make in the planning process. For instance, do you want to have power and running water in your man cave? That’s certainly possible, but will likely require the help of professional contractors to do the work.

As far as the design of the space, you can tailor it to fit whatever theme you’d like. Maybe it will have a sports bar atmosphere with memorabilia from your favorite teams. Or, you could go with old-style pub décor with a dartboard and some signs on the walls. Take your time to bring together all of the details so you will love the finished product.

A Video Game Haven

Video games are no longer only the domain of children—people of all ages enjoy video games these days. That’s why you should consider creating the perfect gaming setup in your man cave! This will be a memorable space for family and friends to enjoy.

This is another man cave idea that will require power. With that said, the overall setup can be pretty simple once the shed is properly wired by a certified electrician. You’ll just need a TV, your video game equipment, and somewhere comfortable to sit. Playing video games in a shed might seem like an odd idea at first, but this type of high-tech man cave might become your favorite place to hang out.

Create an Ideal Workspace

If you love working with your hands and creating all kinds of interesting projects, building a man cave that serves as your workshop could be a dream come true.

If you decide to build a new workshop, the dimensions of your shed are extremely important. You will have to work within the limitations of your property, of course, but you want to make sure you have enough room for your tools and materials. Try creating a mock layout of the workshop you have in mind to determine how much space will be required.

Another important consideration when building a man cave workshop is the location of this shed on your property. Since you will need to bring materials to your shed, you won’t want it to be too difficult to reach. Try to find a site that is relatively close to your driveway and has a path to the door that is not obstructed by obstacles or awkward terrain.

Keep It Simple

Finally, you may choose to build a man cave that contains little other than what you need to relax, think, and slow down from the pace of a busy world. This type of man cave may still have power, so you can turn on a light when using the shed after dark. Other than that, you can stick with basics like one of your favorite chairs, a small table, and a stack of books. It’s hard to find places to unplug and take a break, so building such a space for yourself is an appealing idea.

Purchase a Metal Shed from American Carports, Inc.!

We hope these man cave shed ideas provide you with inspiration! If you’ve decided that a man cave shed is perfect for your needs, browse our available options from American Carports, Inc. We have a long track record of delivering quality steel structures to our many customers. If you’d like to see what’s possible with a custom design, try out this Build & Price tool at your convenience. We are excited to serve you!

Top Motorcycle Storage Ideas

Posted on April 21, 2020 by - ACI, Carports

If you’ve recently fulfilled your dream of purchasing a motorcycle—or you are planning on buying one in the near future—you want to make sure you have a proper place to store it. Having a plan to keep your bike out of the elements will allow you to maintain its pristine condition for years to come. Take a look at our top motorcycle storage ideas to protect your investment!

A steel carport or garage from American Carports, Inc. is the best way to store your bike. Customize your structure with our Build & Price tool, view a 3D rendering, and get a free quote today!

Outdoor Parking

Our first idea is to park your motorcycle outside. To do this, you’ll need to purchase a motorcycle cover to protect your bike from rain, snow, and direct sunlight. While this may seem like a good idea due to its simplicity, there are a few significant disadvantages to this option.

One disadvantage is that it can be quite annoying to put the cover on every time you park, and take it off when you’re ready to go out for a ride. Secondly, while your bike will not be directly exposed to the elements, your cover will be. That means your cover will likely deteriorate, and you’ll have to replace it. Finally, even if you do cover your bike and park it outside, this option still leaves your motorcycle most vulnerable to harsh weather conditions in comparison to some of our other ideas.

Your Current Garage

Your next thought may be to park your motorcycle in your current garage. This is a better option than parking it outside, as a completely covered space will ensure your bike is fully protected from the weather. However, this option also comes with a few drawbacks as well.

If you only have a one-car garage, you will have to make the sacrifice of parking your car outside so your motorcycle can fit inside. That means your car will now be vulnerable to the elements, which can cause significant damage over time. Or, if you have a larger garage, parking your motorcycle alongside your car will take up significant space.

In both cases, your bike will also be inside of the garage likely surrounded by items like sharp tools, heavy bins, and more, which can easily cause scratches if parked too close. Plus, If your needs change down the line—as they often do—you may be left without the luxury of extra storage space that a garage provides.

Consider a Carport

One of the best storage options for your motorcycle is a steel carport from American Carports, Inc. A carport provides you with a designated area for your bike that provides significant protection from both the weather and your belongings. Plus, carports are extremely affordable structures that add significant value to your home. This is especially true when you work with a trusted supplier like American Carports, Inc., who uses high-quality, durable materials to ensure the structure will last the lifetime of your bike. Start designing your carport with our Build & Price tool today!

Build a Detached Garage

For those who enjoy working on their motorcycle, you’ll love the addition of a detached garage. You can make this space large enough to house both your bike and all the items that keep it running smoothly, such as oil, parts, tools, and more. Detached garages also provide complete coverage from the weather, whereas carports may only provide partial protection, depending on if you decide to include a wall. Plus, with a detached garage, you can lock your bike up securely each night, so you can sleep soundly knowing your investment is safe.

While a detached garage may be slightly more expensive than a carport, at American Carports, Inc., they are certainly affordable considering all of the advantages they provide. If you’d like an option that keeps your motorcycle safe from intruders and severe weather alike, go with a detached garage.

Order from American Carports, Inc.!

We hope you consider these top motorcycle storage ideas! As you can see, purchasing a custom metal structure from American Carports, Inc., is the best way to keep your investment safe. Our buildings give you all the protection you need and have the strength to last for years, all with a reasonable price tag. Plus, you can customize your structure to meet your specific needs with our Build & Price tool. Whether you choose to go with a carport or a detached garage, we look forward to assisting you!

Outdoor Lawn Mower Storage Ideas

Posted on April 9, 2020 by - ACI, Carports

If you have a yard, you’ll need a lawn mower to keep it tidy. No matter how you feel about mowing the lawn – some people enjoy it, while others loathe it – you’ll want to keep your mower in good condition to make this task as easy as possible. To do so, consider these outdoor lawn mower storage ideas.

Consider ordering a new, affordable steel structure from American Carports, Inc. to store your lawn mower. Use our Build & Price Tool to fully customize your structure, view a 3D rendering, and receive an instant quote!

The Problem with the Garage

At first, you might think that you’ll just store your lawn mower inside your attached garage, if you have one. That certainly can work, but there are a couple of notable drawbacks to consider:

  • Takes up space. A lawn mower is likely to take up more space than you expect, depending on the model that you own. A typical lawn mower has a relatively long handle, and while that part won’t be taking up floor space, it will be in your way when trying to get to other items in the garage. Even if you can fold up the handle on your model, that will become an annoying chore you have to do each time.
  • Unpleasant odor. This is an issue that some homeowners don’t anticipate – but it makes itself known as soon as you walk into the garage a couple of days after mowing the lawn. Unless you carefully cleaned off all of the grass clippings, those clippings are going to start to smell rather unpleasant as they dry.
  • Inconvenient access. One other point to consider is that it might not be easy to get in and out of the attached garage with the mower, which will only add time to this chore.

Keeping Your Mower Outdoors

If you decide to cross your attached garage off the list of storage options, you might be considering just leaving it outside. You could set it off to the side of your lawn and let it live there, and you could also buy a cover to protect it from some of the elements. This is certainly a convenient way to go, since you can just park it once you are done cutting the grass. However, even if you do add a cover, it will still be outside in the cold winter months, and it will probably get wet one way or another. For the most part, parking your mower outside should only be a last resort when nothing else will work.

Adding a Storage Shed

Now we are getting into the better options that will provide you with both convenience and protection for the mower. By constructing a storage shed on your property, perhaps just behind the yard near the fence, you will have a handy storage solution that may be able to accommodate other yard tools, as well. In addition to the mower, you could also house things like shovels, rakes, gloves, and whatever else you use to keep your landscaping looking pristine.

The great thing about this kind of storage shed is that it does not need to be an expensive addition to your property. With a steel shed, for instance, you can complete the whole project for a modest investment, giving you a perfect parking spot for your mower without breaking the bank.

Design Your Shed

Detached Garage for a Bigger Space

Along the same lines as a storage shed, you could opt for another type of building separate from your house – a detached garage. This can also be a steel building, but it will be much larger and capable of far more than just storing your mower. You could set aside a spot for a mower in the new detached garage, but you could also use it for parking, storage, and more. Also, if you like to work on DIY projects, this detached garage could provide the perfect indoor space to spread out your tools and supplies so you can work properly.

Before planning out a detached garage, be sure that you have the space available on your property for such a building, and make sure that the building will comply with all local codes and regulations.

Order from American Carports, Inc. Today!

As you can see, an affordable and durable steel structure is the best outdoor lawn mower storage idea. Whether you’re planning to build a small shed or a large enclosed garage, you can customize your structure exactly to your liking with our Build & Price Tool! The team at American Carports, Inc. looks forward to serving you.

Bass Boat Storage Ideas

Posted on March 26, 2020 by - ACI, Carports

While you may love bass fishing, unfortunately, you can’t take your boat out every day. That means you’ll need somewhere to store it while not in use to help maintain its condition. Luckily, we have plenty of bass boat storage ideas for you to protect your boat, and we’ll walk through a few of the most popular choices below.

If you’d like to store your boat away from the elements, a metal carport is the best way to protect it. Customize your structure with our Build & Price tool, and get a free quote today!

The Off-Property Option

Before getting into the different ways you can store your bass boat at home, let’s first talk about the idea of storing your boat somewhere else. Specifically, using a storage facility that has boat/RV storage spots available. This approach is certainly a viable option for those who don’t have space available at home to store their boat, but it does come with some significant drawbacks, such as the following:

  • Ongoing cost. When you store your boat at a storage facility, you’ll be paying that monthly fee for however long you own the boat. Investing in a storage solution on your own property comes with an upfront cost, but you’ll enjoy savings in the long run by avoiding the monthly expense.
  • Your boat isn’t at home. Sure, you can go pick up the boat when you are ready to take a trip, but what about when you just want to work on the boat for a few minutes? Whether you want to clean it or make a small repair, you’ll have to head off to the storage facility to make it happen.
  • Unpack every time. You won’t want to leave any of your fishing gear in the boat when you park it at a storage facility. If you store your boat at home, you might be able to keep a few things inside, especially if you park inside an enclosed and locked garage.

In the end, while off-site storage is a necessary choice for some people, it shouldn’t be your first option. If possible, storing your boat on your own property is the way to go.

Parking Outside

As another option, you could simply park your boat on an open space on your property and leave it out in the elements. With a cover placed over the boat, it would probably fare pretty well as the seasons come and go. This approach does work, but again, it has some drawbacks to consider.

For one thing, you’ll need to put the cover on each time, and the condition of that cover will likely deteriorate pretty quickly as a result of being exposed to the elements so regularly. That means you’ll have to replace the cover at some point, and you might get tired of taking it on and off. Also, even with a cover on the boat, it will still be exposed to more of the elements than with some of the other options we have listed below. If you’d like to keep your boat in the best possible condition, parking outside should only be your choice when no other options are viable. 

Add a Carport to Your Property

If you’d like to store your boat under cover without making a big financial investment, go with a metal carport. These are affordable structures that offer protection from elements like rain and snow. You can even add a wall to one side if you would like to protect against the prevailing wind.

With this approach, you may still decide to put your boat’s cover on when it is parked for long periods of time, but that cover won’t have to do nearly as much work. The roof of the carport will offer the bulk of the protection, and your boat should remain in nice condition well into the future as a result.

A Detached, Enclosed Garage

This is the ultimate bass boat storage option. Building a metal garage that is detached from your home will provide your boat its own place to live. You won’t need to put the cover on when it is parked, since the boat is inside. Also, if you lock up the garage, you may feel comfortable leaving some of your fishing equipment in the boat. With this approach, there will be very little standing in your way each time you want to head to the local lake – just hook up your hitch and be on your way.

Order from American Carports, Inc. Today!

Out of all of the bass boat storage ideas, a metal structure from American Carports, Inc. is the best option. Whether you go with a simple carport or an enclosed detached garage, you’ll have a great place to park your boat between fishing trips. Not only do our structures make for an excellent storage solution, but they are also affordable and can be constructed quickly. Customize your new structure today!

RV & Camper Storage Ideas

Posted on March 12, 2020 by - ACI, Carports

If you own an RV or camper, you know one thing to be true—your rig spends a lot of time in storage. Sure, you’d love to be out exploring the countryside more often, but real life tends to get in the way. Even if you spend a few weeks per year on trips, you’ll still be storing your RV more often than not. That said, having a good storage plan in place can make RV life more convenient, and it can help keep your RV in better condition for years to come. Take a look at these RV and camper storage ideas to get started.

Need a reliable cover for your RV? American Carports, Inc. offers affordable, fully customizable metal RV carports. Shop now!

Don’t Make These Mistakes

To get started, we are going to highlight a few mistakes that you’ll want to avoid when storing your RV or camper:

  • Leaving the windows open. If you get back from a trip on a beautiful summer day, you might have the windows open in the RV while you are cleaning it out and getting it ready to be stored for a while. That’s great – just don’t forget to close them when you are done. Leaving the windows open will invite water inside, and that’s never good news.
  • Forgetting perishable food. You might be able to leave a few staples in the RV, such as canned goods, but you’ll want to take almost everything else out when it comes to your food supply. Leaving perishable items behind can make for an unwelcome surprise before your next trip, and you may even attract some critters (if they can find a way in).
  • Not locking the door. Even if your RV or camper is parked on your property, you can’t assume it will always be safe. Get in the habit of locking the door while it is stored so no one is able to easily let themselves in.

Park in a Covered Spot

Establishing a covered parking spot for your RV will go a long way toward protecting its condition. While RVs are designed to be exposed to the elements, leaving them out in the weather all year long is just asking for premature deterioration. If you can add a metal RV carport to your property, you’ll have an affordable solution that will keep your RV out of the weather and in great condition for upcoming trips.

Keep the Curtains Up

Hopefully, you will be able to keep any unwanted moisture out of your RV while it is stored. That’s the goal, but real life isn’t always so kind. Keep the curtains up in your RV while it is parked so sunlight can get in during the day. If there are some damp spots, the sunlight may prevent the development of mold. Of course, in addition to leaving the curtains up, it’s also a good idea to check in on the RV from time to time to make sure it’s staying dry inside.

Think Like a Rodent

As you get ready for a long period of storage, take a careful look around the exterior of your RV and seek out spots that might let little critters inside. Remember, small rodents and other animals can often squeeze through very tight spaces, so even the smallest crack could be an issue. Seal the rig up to the best of your ability to keep rodents out and to prevent yourself from finding an unwanted surprise when spring rolls around.

Consider the Condition of Your Tires

This tip doesn’t apply to campers, but it is important for any RV that has tires, such as a motorhome or trailer. When you store the rig for a long period of time, that period of inactivity can be hard on your tires. RV tires are expensive to replace, so it’s in your best interest to care for them while in storage.

For starters, check the air pressure and make sure there is plenty of air in the tires before you leave it parked (the air pressure might be a bit low after a long trip). Also, try to move the vehicle from time to time during the storage period to alter which portion of the tire is resting on the ground. Finally, do what you can to keep the tires out of direct sunlight, as the UV rays are hard on the rubber. If needed, you can purchase tire covers to help guard against sun damage.

Order a Metal Carport from American Carports, Inc.

A metal RV carport is one of the top RV and camper storage ideas to provide your vehicle with the shelter it deserves. Keeping the rain, snow, and sun off your RV while it is stored will help preserve its condition and should cut down on maintenance requirements down the road. Plus, with American Carports, Inc., you can customize your RV carport exactly to your liking with our Build & Price tool so that it meets your exact needs. We look forward to serving you!

Effective Firewood Storage Ideas

Posted on February 27, 2020 by - ACI, Carports

If you use firewood frequently through the winter months, you’ll need a place to store it so that it stays safe and dry. Those who use a wood-burning fireplace as their main source of heat during the cold part of the year will use a significant amount of wood, so having a spacious storage option is desirable. Here, we’d like to highlight some helpful and effective firewood storage ideas that should make it easier for you to keep your firewood organized and ready to burn.

We sell more than just carports at American Carports, Inc. Our fully customizable structures can be designed to fit your exact needs with our Build & Price tool. Try it today!

Separate but Close

Storing firewood is a tricky task because you want to keep it close to your home for convenience, but not too close. Big piles of wood tend to attract a variety of critters, so you don’t want to store the wood right next to your house. Rather, it would be better to store it in a separate structure that is close enough to the house to still be convenient on those cold winter mornings.

A small metal outbuilding like a storage shed or carport is a perfect solution to this problem. These kinds of buildings are affordable to construct, can be placed in a variety of locations, and require very little in terms of maintenance. Also, by going with a metal building, you won’t have to worry about those critters doing any damage to the structure itself. The size of the building you select will depend on how much wood you need to store, of course, but this idea can work for a variety of needs.

It’s All About the Stack

There is an art to stacking firewood, so it’s beneficial for you to learn a little about the best methods to handle this task. Piling up your firewood in a messy heap in the middle of the floor is just asking for trouble. This causes the wood on the bottom to stay wet, and it gives small animals endless places to hide.

The right way to stack firewood is to give each piece as much room to breathe as possible. You want the wood to be dry when it comes time to burn it, and wood needs air circulation if it is going to dry out. Another key point is to make sure you resist the temptation to stack your pile too high without the right support. A tall stack of firewood could turn into a serious safety risk if it tips over at the wrong time. Consider using a firewood rack to keep your wood organized and in place.

Limit Other Uses

It might be tempting to get multiple uses out of your firewood storage building by adding other items to the space. However, it’s best to avoid this temptation and keep the area clear instead. There are a couple of problems with storing other things near your firewood, and the first is simple convenience. If you pile up other items in the space, it’s going to be hard to access the wood when you need it. Also, a pile of firewood is a potential fire hazard, so you don’t want to collect it next to anything that could be flammable or contribute to the ignition of a dangerous fire.

Only Bring in What You Need

On a winter day when the weather is good, you might be tempted to pull a weeks-worth of wood off of your pile and bring it into the house. That would save you work later on, but it would also come with some significant downsides. In addition to cluttering up your house, you’d certainly be bringing plenty of new guests in with you–and most of them have eight legs. Spiders love woodpiles, and some will come in with each load. By bringing in a big pile that is going to sit for a few days, those spiders will have a chance to dispense to various parts of your home.

The other concern with bringing in so much wood is that the wood won’t be able to dry out properly while inside. If you have green wood, that wood needs to dry in an environment that is not as warm and humid as your house. Leave it outside in covered storage until it’s ready to be used.

Work with American Carports, Inc. Today!

We hope these effective firewood storage ideas assist you! If you decide to add a new structure to your property to keep your firewood out of the elements, American Carports, Inc. would be happy to serve you. Our metal structures are a perfect choice for firewood storage, as they are affordable, durable, and can be installed quickly. Start customizing your structure with our Build & Price tool to get started!

Creative Pool Shed Ideas

Posted on February 12, 2020 by - ACI, Blog, Carports

If you have a pool on your property, you probably have—or would like to add—a pool shed to store the various supplies needed to use and maintain it. Pool sheds can range from small structures that house only the basics, to larger buildings that contain just about everything you could ever need. Optimizing your pool shed space can reduce clutter, make maintenance easier, and improve the overall pool experience. But, before you add a new structure to your yard, take a look at the creative pool shed ideas listed below.

We sell more than just carports at American Carports, Inc. Our fully customizable structures can be designed to fit your exact needs with our Build & Price tool. Try it today!

Function and Pleasure

One of the best ways to get value from your pool shed is to blend its basic functions with some “creative comforts” for your enjoyment of the space. For instance, you could create a shed that has storage in the back and a covered area in the front where people can relax and get a break from the sun. With some outdoor furniture placed under the covered portion, you would instantly have a great hangout spot near the pool for those who aren’t swimming. For instance, if placed properly, this could be a perfect place for parents to sit while keeping an eye on the kids who are in the pool.

Divided Storage Space

If you are going to use your pool shed for nothing more than storage, you might want to divide the space into two sides. This way, it can serve as both a pool shed and a garden shed. On one side of the shed, you will keep items like pool maintenance equipment and supplies, while the other side will house shovels, rakes, pots, and maybe even a lawnmower. This approach allows you to get all the storage you need in a single structure, saving space and money at the same time.

Add Modular Plastic Shelves

An empty shed structure isn’t going to be particularly effective for storage purposes. This setup will likely end with everything getting tossed onto the floor, and it will soon be a cluttered mess. So, to avoid that result, you will want to add some modular shelving right away.

Plastic is a great choice for this task for a couple of reasons. First, many items you’ll need to store for the pool are pretty light, so the plastic shelves should handle those items just fine. Heavier objects can stay on the ground. Also, plastic will hold up in the damp environment of a pool shed just fine, and it should last better in the long run over metal or wood options.

Utilize the Outside of the Shed

On the exterior of the shed, it might be possible to add a couple of extra touches that will make it even more useful. For instance, if the shed is within close proximity to the pool, you could add some hooks that can hold towels and extra clothes while people are swimming. This is just a small touch, but it makes the pool experience more convenient than having to toss things on the ground or find a chair that isn’t being used. Also, the exterior of the shed can be used to brighten up the space through the use of bold color choices. Even if your pool shed is about function more than anything else, you can still make it a valuable piece of the landscape design by picking the right colors and overall style.

Establish a Walkway

It’s bound to happen that you will be in the middle of a swim session when you realize that you forgot to get something out of the shed. In that case, you’ll have to walk with wet feet over to the shed to retrieve what you need. To prevent this, consider designing the space in such a way that the walk is as comfortable and convenient as possible.

You don’t want to put a stretch of dirt or gravel between the pool and the shed since those would be messy or uncomfortable with wet feet. Ideally, the ground surface will be finished all the way from the pool to wherever the shed is located, with something like concrete or patio pavers. Even walking across grass would be an acceptable solution, although that could get messy as well, depending on the weather.

Order a Metal Shed Today!

We hope you’ve been inspired by these creative pool shed ideas! A small metal building from American Carports, Inc. would make a great choice for your new pool shed. Our structures are durable, attractive, and affordable—everything you need for this project. And, thanks to our handy Build & Price tool, you can customize the structure to suit your needs perfectly. Start designing your pool shed now!