If you’ve been cramming lawnmowers, snowblowers, bikes, boxes, and lawn chairs galore into your garage until it’s practically bulging… let’s face it. You need a storage shed. But that’s the easy part. The hard part is figuring out the best shed sizes for your yard.

We’ve sold sheds to hundreds of homeowners, so we know a thing or two about finding the perfect fit. Here are our tips to find what size you need to hold all your stuff comfortably.

Standard Shed Sizes

Small Sheds

• Less than 100 square feet 
• Good for bikes, boxes, and lawn mowers
• Sizes to buy: 6×6, 6×8, 8×8, 8×10, 8×12 

Medium Sheds

• 100 to 150 square feet 
• Good for riding mowers, patio furniture, and grills
• Sizes to buy: 8×14, 8×16, 10×10, 10×12, 10×14 

Large Sheds

• 150+ square feet 
• Good for motorcycles, ATVs, and kayaks 
• Sizes to buy: 10×16, 10×18, 10×20, 12×14

So how do you decide what size shed you need? Ask yourself these three questions. 

1). How Big is Your Yard?

When comparing storage shed sizes, start by taking a realistic look at your backyard. If you have a large property, this piece probably won’t matter. But if you have a smaller yard, you don’t want to choose a shed that will overwhelm your outdoor space.

It’s not just the shed dimensions you need to worry about. You also need to consider the space around your shed, such as: 

• Additional setbacks from property lines, roads, or floodplains (every municipality has different setback regulations). 
• Your shed foundation, which should be placed at least three feet away from fencing, trees, etc. 
• Room around your structure to allow for easy access. 

2). What Are You Storing?

The perfect shed size depends on how you’re using it. Are you trying to store large items, or do you want a private workshop, home office, or art studio? In our experience, there are two ways to estimate the amount of floor space you’ll need. 

Plot it Out on Graph Paper

For the graph paper method, grab a sheet (or use virtual graph paper) and measure out a rectangle or square that represents the size of your desired shed. Use a conversion system where each square on the graph paper represents ½ a foot (ex: 10 feet equals 20 squares). 

From there, take measurements of the large equipment, boxes, or furniture that you want to store. Draw them to scale on your sheet of graph paper. Remember to leave room around each item so you can easily move things around.

Physical Arrangement

Some people need a more realistic visualization of their space. If this is you, your best bet is to physically arrange your items in an open space, like your driveway. Just like with the graph paper, place your belongings as you would inside your shed, leaving a buffer around each item. Once everything is arranged, measure the total square footage of the space you’re taking up. 

No matter which method you choose from our shed size guide, don’t forget about vertical space! Take into account which smaller items can be stacked or hung on walls. A pegboard system is a great space-saver to help you organize shovels, rakes, weed whackers, folding chairs, or small tools. Some shed designs even include a loft, giving you more storage for smaller items.

A final piece of advice: When in doubt, always buy a shed a little larger than you think you will need. This helps you account for any items you didn’t factor into your measurements or items you may purchase in the future.

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3). What Are the Permit Restrictions for Sheds?

Before you make your final purchase, check with your township or municipality. Certain kinds of sheds may require a zoning or residential building permit. 

The rules vary by location, but typically, smaller sheds with no utilities just need a zoning permit. Some sheds may not need any permit at all. Larger sheds over a certain square footage will need a residential building permit. Structures with electrical, plumbing, or permanent foundations are more likely to require approval. 

Also consult your Homeowners Association (HOA). They often have standards about shed dimensions, placement, and appearance. 

Thankfully, it’s not hard to get a shed permit! Just contact your county’s planning commission to find details on your area’s rules and next steps. For most counties in Pennsylvania, you’ll need a permit for sheds in the 100-200 square foot range. But check your local zoning rules to find the specifics for your area.

Penn Dutch Structures Shed Sizes

Looking for the perfect shed? We offer 18 different styles in dozens of sizes, so you can find the perfect storage solution for your needs. Our structures range from 6’x6’ to 14’x44’. 

For a smaller shed, we recommend a Mini, Mini Barn, or Trash Can Shed. For a medium structure, we recommend an A-Frame, Classic, Dutch Barn, or Quaker. For larger models, we recommend Chalet, Villa, or Cape.

Explore our in-stock and built-to-order sheds to find a style you love. Each one is handcrafted using classic Amish techniques, so you know it will last you for years to come.

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The terms barn and stable have a tendency to be used interchangeably. While they both have some overlapping similarities, the differences between them stem from their distinct purposes. It’s important when searching for a barn or a stable to understand which structure will be most beneficial to you and your needs. 

When looking at barns vs. stables, you can see the variety of designs and styles each provides, allowing you to discover the perfect match for housing animals and any tools or gear. By seeing the differences, you will be able to specify which structure you want.

What Is a Barn?

Barns are typically large structures used for storage or keeping livestock as opposed to housing horses. Some barns are also used for decorative purposes, like front barns or carriage houses. Barns were originally designed for practicality and aesthetic. Barns can be used for numerous reasons, and because of that, they come in a variety of styles. 

• Bank Barns
• Round Barns
• English Barns
• Dutch Barns
• Prairie Barns

The designs of barns speak to their identity, but also their functionality. Depending on the purpose of yours, you can choose which style suits your needs best while also elevating your outdoor space. 

Barn Design

A traditional agricultural barn has certain characteristics that work to make your job easier. When you are looking at a stable vs barn, the main difference comes down to design:

Tack Room

Every barn needs a tack room. This is where bridles, saddles, and other equipment is stored and kept organized. The planning and location of your tack room will depend on how many steps you want to minimize in the process of getting horses ready. With the correct layout plan, you will be able to save time and space. 

Drive Bay

These are large corridors where storage for animals and machinery are placed. Everything from driving lawn mowers to hand tools, and from bagged compost to hay, is stored in the drive bay. These are important to keep tools and equipment safe and in an accessible area for use.

Silo

Silos are used to store or fermented grasses to feed animals during the winter months. They can be vertical or horizontal and made of different materials. They’re filled from a hole in the top and allow you to keep lots of nutritious silage on hand for animals.

Grain Bins

Though similar to silos, grain bins only store dry grains while silos store fermented pasture. Grain bins are cylinders with pointed metal roofs and an exterior staircase that leads to the top. They come in varying heights but are usually wider in diameter and made of corrugated steel. 

What Is a Stable?

Stables are structures used to house and care for horses. They usually consist of individual stalls where the horses stay. There are mainly two types of stables:

• Traditional Stables
• Stable Barns

Traditional stables are used exclusively for horses whereas stable barns or small horse barns are a mix between barns and stables, creating a different horse care experience. While these stable designs are used for different purposes, they usually incorporate the same elements.

Stable Design

Looking at the differences between barn vs. stable designs you will see that it comes down to purpose. When designing a stable, the goal should be functionality, but also comfortability for the horses. There are many different options for each design element within a stable, allowing you to stick to the traditional structure while adding your own unique aesthetic.  

Stalls

There are two common types of stalls you can choose from when designing a stable. These are box stalls or loose boxes and standing or tie stalls. 

• Box Stalls- According to the Canadian National Farm Animal Care Council, the size of a box stall for an average size horse should be at least 10’x10’ to 12’x12’.
• Standing Stalls- The size of standing stalls should be wide enough for a horse to lie down. This means they are typically 4’ to 5’ wide and 8’ long, depending on the size of the horse. 

Both box and standing stalls should be at least 4.6’ high with a grill or sturdy mesh above. This allows the horses to see each other as well as have better ventilation. 

Stall Doors

When choosing what kind of doors you want for the stalls, you can either pick swinging or sliding doors. Whichever you choose, it’s important to have a latch that opens easily, but that the horse cannot tamper with. 

• Swinging Doors- These should always open towards the alley or aisleway. 
• Sliding Doors- These should slide smoothly when opening or closing.

Both swinging and sliding doors should be at least 4’ wide. Always make sure the doors are securely closed at all times, ensuring that the horses will not escape. 

Ceilings

Ceiling height will depend on the size of the horse. It should be high enough that the horse can raise its head comfortably without the worry of hitting its head on the ceiling. The standard ceiling height of 8’ will be fine for ponies or smaller horses, but if the horse is larger you may have to make the ceiling higher. 

Lighting

When lighting your stable, you must make sure you’re prioritizing the safety of your horses. This means all plug-ins should be GFIC receptacles, and all wiring should be rodent and moisture resistant. Safety cages should be around each light, and out of any horse’s reach. Lastly, the light fixtures should be placed in a fashion that reduces dark areas.

Flooring

Most stable floors are made of concrete or stone. The surface can be roughened to make it non-slip, but drains will have to be placed in the floors because they won’t drain naturally. This also means stall floors will need to be well-cleaned to inhibit ammonia build-up. Using hard flooring makes it easier to disinfect and be hosed down, but it’s harder on the horses’ legs.

You can also use sandy soil as the flooring which is easier on the horses’ legs and are often warmer and quieter. However, earth floors are more difficult to clean and may require digging out and replacing if the soil becomes too saturated with urine and water.

Aisles or Alleyways

The aisles or alleyways are the pathways between the stalls. These should typically be at least 10’ wide. When it comes to aisle width, the larger the better because it’ll ensure room for horses to pass or be tied to groom.

Windows

Windows are great for natural ventilation and light, which is why it’s important to add as many as possible into your stable design. Make sure your windows are covered with a grill or sturdy mesh so that the horses don’t break the glass. It’s also better to use windows that swing open rather than slide up and down.

Which Structure is Right For You?

Choosing between a barn and a stable depends on how you plan to use the building.

Choose a Barn If You:

• Need equipment or feed storage
• Plan to house multiple animal types
• Want a flexible structure for future use

Choose a Stable If You:

• Own horses and need individual stalls
• Want a layout designed for daily horse care
• Prioritize animal comfort and safety

Frequently Asked Questions About Barns & Stables

1. What is the main difference between a barn and a stable?

A barn is a multi-purpose agricultural building, while a stable is designed specifically for housing horses.

2. Are stables smaller than barns?

Typically, yes. Stables are often more compact and focused on stall layouts, while barns usually offer larger open spaces.

3. Can one structure serve as both a barn and a stable?

Yes, with proper planning and customization, a barn can include stable features such as stalls and tack rooms.

4. Do barns and stables require permits?

Permit requirements vary by location. Local zoning laws, building codes, and HOA rules may apply.

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HOA shed rules typically require homeowners to get approval before installation, follow size and height limits, meet placement setbacks, and match approved materials and colors. Requirements vary by HOA, so reviewing your governing documents and local building codes is essential before buying a shed.

What is a Homeowners Association and What Do They Do?

A homeowners association (HOA) is an organization in a planned community, subdivision, or condominium building that enforces rules for residents and their properties. These rules are often appearance-focused and can range from regulations about parking to the paint color on your house. 

Their ultimate goal is to preserve or increase property values by maintaining a cohesive look in the development. To achieve this, each HOA has different rules and regulations to follow. 

Membership is usually mandatory for those living in the community, and HOAs require monthly or annual fees. In return, they may provide other services for the neighborhood such as snow removal, landscaping, and more. 

Not following HOA protocol could lead to warnings, fines, or, in the case of a shed, tearing the structure down. That’s why you need to learn about shed HOA requirements before you get started. 

Common HOA Shed Rules

Now that you know the purpose of a homeowners association, we will cover four of the common HOA shed guidelines to consider when purchasing a shed. 

1. HOA Approval and Permits

A lot of people ask: do you need HOA approval for a shed? The short answer is yes! Getting proper approval from your homeowners association is necessary so you can enjoy your shed for years to come. 

To do this, review your HOA regulations and submit any plans to get approval. This may include documents like a site plan, topographic map, shed image, and shed dimensions. In addition, be sure to check local building codes to see if you need zoning or building permits. This will depend on your location and the size of your shed. 

Not getting approval could cost you time, money, and effort. That’s why submitting the proper documentation is an important first step to building an HOA-approved shed. 

2. Shed Size Restrictions

Most HOAs limit what size your shed can be. 

Maximum footprint: the maximum shed size may be regulated by the total square footage, dimensions, or percentage of the land it covers. For example: 150 feet, 8’ x 10’, or no more than 1% of your land. 

Maximum height: many homeowners associations limit the height of side walls, as well as the height of the roof. 

We offer a variety of shed sizes, so choose the one that’s right for you, while also following HOA shed rules. 

3. Shed Placement Rules

Your HOA may have rules about where you can place your shed. These setback requirements will outline the minimum shed distance from your property line, main house, driveway, and more. Most HOA guidelines also state that sheds cannot be visible from the front of the house to maintain neighborhood aesthetics. 

Before you begin site prep, you need to make sure your location complies with any shed placement rules. 

4. Shed Materials and Appearance 

Now we’re at the fun part—the look of your shed! When you’re choosing the style, be sure to consult your HOA about the: 

• Roof: your HOA may have guidelines for flat roofs vs. sloped roofs 
• Floor: sheds must include a solid floor, such as a concrete slab. Avoid dirt or gravel floors. 
• Exterior material: your siding must be constructed of wood, vinyl, or aluminum. All metal sheds are typically not allowed. 
• Color: some HOAs ask you to match the style of your house as closely as possible. This includes exterior colors, trim colors, roof shingles, and windows. 

These shed design elements for HOA will help your structure blend in seamlessly in your backyard. 

How to Design an HOA-Approved Shed

You don’t just want an HOA-approved shed, but also a visually appealing one. Here are some design elements to consider to enhance the look of your shed and your yard as a whole. 

Shed Location 

As you know, your HOA restricts shed location,  but you also want to consider where it looks best. Does your yard have a focal point? What is your landscaping like? Will your shed add to the overall appearance, or feel out of place? 

Be mindful how the shed works visually with the rest of your yard and place it accordingly. Try to balance HOA shed placement rules with personal preference and practicality. 

Shed Style Options

Whether you’re going for a modern, bold, or garden-inspired look, you can find a shed style that complements your taste. At Penn Dutch Structures, we can make any shed HOA-friendly! Some popular styles include: 

• A-Frame Shed
• Cape Shed
• Carriage Shed 
• Chalet Shed
• Classic Shed 
• Cottage Shed
• Mini Barn Shed 
• Villa Shed
• Quaker Shed 

Exterior Look 

Don’t let your shed be an eyesore. Take your time deciding on the basic visual elements like color, siding, and roof. Don’t be afraid to try something different with your new structure, as long as it’s following HOA shed guidelines. 

As a general design rule, try to match the style of your home so your shed doesn’t look out of place in your yard. We offer color, trim, window, and door customizations on both our vinyl and wood sheds. 

Accessories and Custom Features

The best way for your shed to stand out is with unique accessories and customizations. Get creative with outdoor lighting, garden accents, and decorative add-ons. Some of our favorite options are weathervanes, flowerboxes, and cupolas for a charming look. 

Landscaping Around Your Shed

Another great way to enhance the visual appeal of your shed is by landscaping around the structure. Planting flowers, shrubs, or even a vegetable patch near your shed adds a natural touch. Be careful to avoid some common mistakes that are harmful to your shed or your plants: 

1. Planting trees too close: planting trees near your shed is not a good idea, since their growth can cause problems with your structure down the road. 
2. Blocking sunlight: both your plants and shed need sunlight. Make sure everything has enough sun exposure to help your plants be healthy and your shed avoid moisture damage.
3. Leaving climbing vines untended: climbing vines are beautiful, but they require attention. If not cared for, they can trap moisture, rot wood, and completely take over your shed.  

Find Your State and Local HOA

With your new knowledge of HOA shed rules and popular design elements, you are ready to buy a shed. Find your state HOA laws on the HOA Management site. For your local HOA, we recommend looking at your property deed or asking a neighbor. 

Frequently Asked Questions About HOA Shed Rules

1. Do you need HOA approval for a shed?

Yes. Most homeowners associations require written approval before installing a shed to ensure it meets community appearance and placement standards.

2. What size shed is usually allowed by an HOA?

HOA shed size limits vary by community, but most restrict both the footprint and height. Common rules cap shed size by total square footage or dimensions, such as a maximum of 150 square feet or an 8′ × 10′ shed, and some HOAs limit sheds to a small percentage of the lot, often around 1%. Height restrictions are also common and may apply to side walls and overall roof height.

3. Can an HOA make you remove a shed?

Yes. If a shed violates HOA rules or was installed without approval, the HOA may issue fines or require removal.

4. Are metal sheds allowed in HOA communities?

Often no. Many HOAs restrict sheds to wood or vinyl materials to maintain a consistent neighborhood appearance.

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When it comes to outdoor structures, pergolas, arbors, and gazebos can sometimes look similar—but what is a gazebo exactly? A gazebo is a freestanding outdoor structure with a solid roof, designed to enhance gardens, lawns, and backyard spaces. Available in a variety of shapes, sizes, and materials, gazebos offer both style and function.

So, what is a gazebo used for? These versatile structures serve as focal points in your landscape, perfect for outdoor entertaining, relaxing, or hosting special events. Gazebos can be ideal for photography, parties, bird-watching, and creating cozy outdoor retreats. Keep reading to discover the many ways a gazebo can transform your outdoor space.

The Origin of Gazebos

This popular garden structure was first given its name in the 18th century. The name was a combination of the word “gaze” with a Latin suffix “ebo,” which meant “I shall.” It was an appropriate name considering that’s what people enjoy doing with gazebos!

The structure itself has been around for thousands of years. Gazebos can be traced all the way back to ancient Greece and Roman times when people added them to accent their gardens and create a space to enjoy hosting people. Throughout history, they were also popular in European estates and Asian landscapes for privacy or hosting events, like tea time. 

How to Use a Gazebo

Just like in the past, gazebos are still great structures to add to your outdoor space for relaxation, hosting, and more! People enjoy using gazebos as:

• A gathering place for friends or family
• Decoration for their landscape
• Special events or ceremonies, like weddings
• A covered picnic area
• Backdrops for photography shoots

And those are just a few main uses. There are plenty of more creative ways to use a gazebo. 

Types of Gazebos

If you’re thinking of adding a gazebo to your outdoor space, there are many different components that go into designing it. You’ll need to select a gazebo material, shape, roofing material, roof-style, and any additional upgrades. Let’s learn more about your options.

Gazebo Shapes

The first step to adding a gazebo in your yard is to consider the size of your outdoor living space. After you find a spot well suited for putting the structure, next you’ll need to decide what shape you’d prefer. 

Gazebos typically come in four shapes. You can get a rectangle, octagon, oval, or dodecagon gazebo. That last option may sound odd, but a dodecagon gazebo simply means the structure will have 12 sides. Since it has so many sides, it’s typically larger. This makes it a great choice if you’re looking to entertain large groups or fill a large space.

Wood vs. Vinyl Material

Once you’ve decided the shape, it’s time to consider what material you want your gazebo to be built with. There are lots of pros and cons with either a wood or vinyl gazebo. One isn’t necessarily better over the other, it’s just a matter of what style you’d enjoy using more and how much maintenance you’re willing to do.

A wooden gazebo has a premium, handcrafted look that beautifully accents any outdoor living space. However, over time you may need to paint it or stain it again to keep it looking like new. Wood is a sturdy option and can handle different weather conditions well. 

Vinyl is also a sturdy option, and if you want a modern look, it’s a good choice. However, if you live in an area with high humidity, it will likely require power washing over time. Mold can grow more easily in humid climates, and cleaning it occasionally will keep it looking nice over time.

Roofing Material

A gazebo roof can have standard asphalt shingles, rubber shingles, or cedar shingles in varying colors. Below are the benefits of each:

Asphalt shingles are:

• An affordable, easy-installation option.
• Offered in a variety of colors to match your home’s roof.

Rubber shingles are:

• A great, low-cost roofing material.
• An extremely durable material that’s less likely to crack in extreme weather.

Cedar shingles are:

• One of the strongest, wind-resistant roofing materials.
• A classic, attractive looking option.

When selecting a roofing material, it’s important to think about the color just as much as the material. Be sure to ask what colors are available for each material, so that your final choice matches both your gazebo and other structures on your property.

Gazebo Roof Style

Once you have your roof material in mind, it’s time to consider what you’d like your roof to look like. There are 5 popular gazebo roof styles:

1. Pinnacle roof
2. Standard roof
3. Pagoda roof cupola
4. Cupola roof
5. Country style roof

Including a decorative roof style on top of your gazebo is a great way to really make it stand out in your landscaping. That way, in addition to offering a beautiful view, your gazebo also offers more value as an attractive focal point. 

If you want to learn more about permanent roof decorations for your gazebo, read our guide on how to choose and install the perfect roof decor.

Gazebo Upgrades

Once your gazebo design is close to being finalized, it’s time to consider adding upgrades. Those extra touches can turn your gazebo into a space you and others will enjoy spending time in for years to come. 

Consider if adding screens is right for your gazebo. Depending on how you plan to use it, screens are a great way to keep out bugs and pests while you and others enjoy spending time inside it. A mesh screen also will still allow for optimal air-flow inside the structure. And you’ll still be able to enjoy the natural lighting as well.

Adding electricity is another great upgrade option. With electricity, you can enjoy your structure at any time. It allows you to add outdoor lighting, making it the perfect space for hosting and relaxing. Plus, you can hook up other decorative elements that require electricity, such as a small electric fountain or outdoor speakers. 

Decorating a Gazebo

Once the installation is complete, it’s time for the fun part — enjoying your gazebo. And one of the best ways to do that is by decorating it.

There are many opportunities to dress your structure up. If you’re wondering how to decorate your gazebo for summer, there’s lots of inspiration online and on our Pinterest. Some of the best tips for decorating your gazebo include adding flowers around the base or hanging them in baskets. 

Also, try adding comfortable outdoor furniture and some accent pillows to create a cozy space to spend time in. Furniture is a great way for you to enjoy the gazebo and can also come in handy while entertaining guests. With just a few touches and decorative accents, you can transform your space in no time! 

Tips for Gazebos

The best way to truly enjoy good use out of your gazebo is to make sure you properly care for it over time. There are a lot of tips for caring for a gazebo, but below are the most important ones you should add to your maintenance plan.

• Clear any brush, twigs, and debris off the gazebo when you notice it building up.
• Keep the gazebo clean and wash it when necessary (this is especially important for vinyl gazebos).
• Rid the structure of any pest nests and webs to keep unwelcome visitors from building a home.
• Inspect your gazebo and repair any damages as soon as possible when they occur.

By just establishing a routine maintenance plan, you can make sure the curb appeal of your structure lasts. With the right care, you can continue getting great use out of your gazebo for years to come!

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