Finally, spring has sprung, and with it comes the annual ritual of battling the weeds and keeping your lawn looking its best. But for many homeowners, the challenge isn’t just mowing the lawn, it’s also finding a safe and secure place to store their trusty lawnmower. If you’re thinking about getting a shed to house your mower, you’re in the right place! This comprehensive guide will help you determine the ideal size for your shed, taking into account your lawnmower type, other tools, and your personal storage needs.
What size shed is best for a lawnmower?
The size of shed you need for your lawnmower will depend on the type of mower you have and what else you plan to store in the shed. For a basic walk-behind lawnmower, a 6×8 or 8×8 shed should be sufficient. However, if you have a larger riding mower or other tools like a weed trimmer, leaf blower, or gardening equipment, you will need a larger shed.
Evaluating Your Lawn Mower
Before diving into shed size recommendations, you need to thoroughly understand the dimensions of your lawnmower. Here’s a breakdown of the different types of lawnmowers and their typical sizes:
Walk-Behind Mowers
- Push Mowers: These are the most compact and take up minimal space, generally requiring about 30 inches of width and 40 inches of length.
- Self-Propelled Mowers: While slightly larger than push mowers, they are still relatively compact, with dimensions around 36 inches in width and 48 inches in length.
- Rotary Mowers: These mowers have a wider cutting deck, typically around 21 inches, requiring approximately 40 inches of width and 50 inches of length.
Riding Mowers
- Lawn Tractors: These mowers are significantly larger than walk-behinds, with an average width of 48 inches and a length of 60 inches.
- Zero-Turn Mowers: These mowers are extremely maneuverable but require more space for storage, typically around 48 inches in width and 60-72 inches in length.
Determining Your Storage Needs
Once you’ve assessed your lawnmower’s size, you can move on to considering additional storage needs. Consider these factors:
Additional Tools and Equipment
- Weed Trimmer and Edger: These tools require minimal storage space, typically a 20-inch shelf or a dedicated corner in the shed.
- Leaf Blower: Similar to weed trimmers, these require a small area for storage.
- Gardening Tools: Shovels, rakes, and other gardening tools might require a dedicated shelf or section within the shed.
- Other Power Equipment: If you have a pressure washer, generator, or other power equipment, you’ll need to factor in their dimensions for adequate space.
Other Storage Considerations
- Safety: You might need to store gasoline, oil, and other flammable materials. If so, ensure your shed meets local regulations for safe storage.
- Organization: Planning your shed organization is crucial. Consider using shelves, hooks, and other storage solutions to maximize space and keep your equipment easily accessible.
Shed Size Recommendations
Here’s a breakdown of recommended shed sizes for different storage needs:
Shed Size for a Walk-Behind Mower
- Minimum: 6×8 feet. This size comfortably accommodates a walk-behind mower and offers room for basic tools.
- Ideal: 8×8 feet. This provides more room for additional tools, a small workbench, or better organization.
Shed Size for a Riding Mower
- Minimum: 8×10 feet. This size allows for safe storage of a riding mower and a little extra space for a small toolkit.
- Ideal: 10×12 feet. This offers ample space for a riding mower, multiple tools, and potentially even a small refrigerator for drinks and snacks during yard work.
Shed Size for a Larger Equipment Collection
- Minimum: 10×16 feet. This size can accommodate a wide array of equipment, including a riding mower, a small trailer, and other tools.
- Ideal: 12×20 feet. This large shed provides spacious storage for all your equipment, a dedicated workspace, and ample room for organization.
Choosing the Right Shed Material
Once you’ve determined the ideal shed size, consider the material for your shed.
- Wood: Classic and aesthetically pleasing, wooden sheds provide good insulation and durability. However, they require regular maintenance to prevent decay.
- Metal: Metal sheds offer durability, low maintenance, and are often more affordable. They can be susceptible to rust in humid climates.
- Plastic: Lightweight, easy to assemble, and often more affordable, plastic sheds are a popular option. They might not be as durable or aesthetically pleasing as wood or metal.
Maximizing Your Shed Space
No matter the size of your shed, you can always maximize its storage capacity with smart organization. Here are some key tips:
- Vertical Storage: Utilize shelves and hooks to store items vertically, freeing up valuable floor space.
- Wall-Mounted Storage: Consider using pegboards or wall-mounted organizers to store smaller tools and accessories.
- Mobile Storage: Employ rolling carts or drawers to easily move tools and equipment around the shed.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Shed
In addition to size and materials, there are several other factors to consider when choosing a shed:
- Budget: Shed prices can vary significantly based on size, materials, and features. Determine your budget before you start shopping.
- Style and Aesthetics: Choose a shed style that complements your home’s architecture and landscaping.
- Foundation: Decide if you need a concrete foundation or if your shed will be placed on a leveled base.
- Location: Ensure the shed location is suitable for your needs and meets local building codes.
Conclusion: The Right Shed for Your Lawn Mower
Finding the perfect shed for your lawnmower and other tools is a crucial part of any homeowner’s toolkit. By considering the size of your mower, your storage needs, and the features that are important to you, you can find the shed that will keep your equipment safe, organized, and easily accessible for years to come. Remember to factor in the budget, style, location, and foundation requirements to ensure you make the best choice for your home and your lawn.
FAQs
What size lawn mower do I need?
The size of your lawn mower will determine the size of the shed you need. If you have a small lawn, a smaller mower will suffice. However, if you have a large lawn, you will need a larger mower. A standard riding mower is typically 48″ wide and will require a shed that is at least 8’x10′.
How much space do I need for other equipment?
In addition to your mower, you’ll need space for other lawn and garden equipment, such as a weed trimmer, leaf blower, and gardening tools. You may also want to store fertilizer, pesticides, and other chemicals. Consider how much you need to store and factor in the need for walkways to move about inside the shed.
What are the dimensions of my lawnmower?
The dimensions of your lawnmower are important to consider when determining the size of your shed. Make sure the shed is tall enough to accommodate your mower’s height. Additionally, if you are storing a riding mower, the shed should be wide enough to allow you to get on and off the mower.
Do I need a shed with a door large enough for the mower?
A shed with a door large enough to accommodate your lawn mower is essential. A standard door opening is 3′ wide, which may not be sufficient for a riding mower. Additionally, you will need to consider the height of the door and ensure it is tall enough to allow you to easily roll your mower in and out.
What is the best type of shed for my needs?
The best type of shed for your needs will depend on your budget and the amount of space you need. Wood sheds are relatively inexpensive and can be built to your specifications, while metal sheds are durable and low-maintenance. Consider what you need to store and your desired aesthetics when making your selection.
How much does a shed cost?
The cost of a shed will vary depending on the size, material, and features. Smaller sheds can be purchased for a few hundred dollars, while larger sheds can cost several thousand dollars. Consider your budget and shop around to compare prices.
How do I choose a shed location?
Choosing a location for your shed is important. You will want to choose a location that is level and accessible. It is also important to consider the proximity to your house and other structures. You may need to apply for permits if the shed will be located in a specific distance from property lines or easements.