Visit Penn Dutch Structures
at The Markets At Shrewsbury

Whether raising chickens is a life-long passion or a new backyard hobby, there’s one thing we know for sure—happy chickens equal a happy life. The best way to improve the happiness of your flock is by regularly cleaning the coop. In this blog, we’ll cover how to clean a chicken coop and our list of dos and don’ts for keeping your chickens healthy. 

The Benefits of Cleaning Your Coop

Just like your car or shed needs maintenance, so does your chicken coop! Prioritizing frequent cleaning has several benefits: 

Healthier chickens. Chicken droppings are a breeding ground for bacteria and parasites that can make you and your flock sick. Stick to a cleaning schedule to stop germs and diseases from spreading.  

More eggs. The more comfortable your hens are, the more eggs they lay! By refreshing their bedding frequently and disinfecting the coop, your chickens will produce higher-quality eggs. 

Pest prevention. Backyard poultry can be a host to various pests like rodents, mites, lice, and fleas. Keeping up with cleaning means you can avoid an infestation. 

Odor control. Removing feces and replacing bedding keeps the odor to a minimum. The longer you let old bedding sit, the stronger the ammonia fumes become. This doesn’t just smell bad, but it can also be dangerous to the health of your flock. 

How Often to Clean a Chicken Coop 

While raising chickens has many benefits, it isn’t all fun and games—it also requires dedication and attention to detail. To keep your hens happy and healthy, here’s a breakdown of how often to clean a chicken coop. 

Daily: 

  • Refill food and water. 
  • Remove uneaten food at night to protect your chickens and prevent predators. 
  • Clean up droppings and add them to your compost. 
  • Collect eggs so they don’t pile up and break. 

Weekly: 

  • Replace all nesting materials and bedding to prevent ammonia build-up. 
  • Clean waterers and feed boxes. 
  • Remove cobwebs and dust from the walls and ceiling. 

Monthly: 

  • Clean surfaces, roosting bars, and windows with a natural cleaner. 

Every 6 months: 

  • Deep clean your entire chicken coop. 
  • Also, consider deep cleaning before you bring in a new flock. Chicks are especially vulnerable to diseases and pests, so it’s important to make their home as safe as possible. 
a chicken sits on a wooden roost in front of a pile of eggs

How to Clean a Chicken Coop Step By Step 

When it’s time for your bi-annual deep clean, follow these steps to make sure your hens are happy and healthy. 

1. Remove All Chickens

Start by removing your chickens from the coop and putting them in a temporary enclosure. Begin early enough so you can finish before nightfall. 

2. Empty The Coop

Now you need to clear out everything from inside your chicken coop. This includes bedding, feeders, perches, and anything else removable. 

3. Scrape Out Dirt

Time for the dirty work! Strap on some gloves and, using a shovel or garden hoe, scrape out any chicken droppings and other debris that have piled up on the surfaces of the coop. Give the floor a good sweep to clear out the last of the dirt and feathers. 

4. Hose It Down

Grab a hose and douse the coop with water. If you’re tackling mites, get rid of them using boiling water. 

5. Disinfect

There are a few things to remember when disinfecting your chicken coop. Many household cleaning products are toxic to chickens, so make sure you’re using a natural cleaner for this step. Buy your own or use a DIY mixture of half water, half vinegar. You can use this on the feeders, waterers, nesting boxes, and any other surface! 

6. Hose It Down Again

Break out the hose one more time to make sure the coop is clean and cut down on the vinegar smell. 

7. Let Your Coop Dry

And now you wait. To speed the process along, place any removable pieces out in the sun to dry faster. Once everything is completely dry, you can put them back in the coop where they belong. 

8. Add Fresh Bedding

The last step in how to clean a chicken coop is adding fresh bedding. To further enhance your hen’s experience, you can add fresh herbs to your nesting boxes. The scent is comforting to your flock and helps deter pests. 

a wooden chicken coop on wheels in a grassy field

Cleaning Your Coop: Dos and Don’ts

  • DON’T put off cleaning until a problem arises.  
  • DO follow our maintenance schedule. Remember that cleaning a chicken coop is not a one-time thing. It is a continuous process that is essential to the health of your flock. 
  • DON’T just replace parts of the bedding that are the dirtiest. Relying completely on spot cleaning isn’t effective, no matter what bedding material you use. 
  • DO replace it all weekly so bacteria doesn’t build up. Fresh bedding is more absorbent and better for the health and comfort of your chickens. 
  • DON’T use bleach or other harmful chemicals while disinfecting your chicken coop.
  • DO use natural cleaning solutions that are nontoxic. 
  • DON’T clean your chicken coop without protection. 
  • DO wear gloves and a mask. Poultry carry diseases such as Salmonella and E. coli, so remember to always wash your hands after handling your chickens. 

Chicken Coop Maintenance Tips

Getting your coop clean is one thing, but keeping it that way is another. You may be feeling overwhelmed about how to manage the daily, weekly, and monthly tasks. Here are a few tips for how to keep your chicken coop clean throughout the year. 

1. Stay Organized

Whether that means making a to-do list, setting reminders, or just getting into a rhythm of cleaning, it’s important to be on top of your coop cleaning tasks. Stay organized so you won’t forget any step. Want to know the secret to keep your chicken coop clean? Make it a part of your routine and don’t fall behind. 

2. Focus on Prevention

Rather than tackling issues after they arise, take small steps now to prevent bigger problems in the future. Remove spilled food, standing water, chicken droppings, and anything else that can attract pests. Check your flock for signs of sickness and injury so you can catch it early.

3. Inspect Your Coop

Regularly give your coop a once-over and inspect it for damage, holes, loose boards, and open hatches. When you notice a problem, make sure you repair it immediately so your flock is always safe from predators.  

Now that you’ve mastered the art of how to clean a chicken coop, you’re well on your way to raising chickens that are happy, healthy, and thriving in their spotless, well-maintained home.  


Expanding Your Flock?

Get a quote on our customizable, easy-to-clean chicken coops!

Explore Coops
Combination 4’ x 6’ A-Frame Chicken Coop

Adding a shed to your yard is a great way to enhance your home. It improves curb appeal, provides extra storage and security, and ultimately increases the value of your property. However,  it’s important to do your research on HOA shed rules before purchasing your 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. 

4 HOA Shed Rules to Follow

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. 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-friendly shed. 

2. Shed Size

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

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. 

A gray shed sits in the corner of the yard with a bench and a potted plant out front.

4. 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. 

Design Elements to Improve Your Yard’s Visual Appeal 

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

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
  • 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

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

A tan shed with red doors and shutters sits in the corner of a backyard in front of a white fence. Out front is a wheelbarrow and several plants growing in mulch.

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. 

View Our HOA-Approved Sheds

Now that you know the regulations, you are ready to purchase an HOA-friendly shed! Browse our shed options to get started on your dream backyard.

View Sheds
8’ x 12’ Vinyl Classic New England Style Shed

This blog was originally published on January 2, 2018. It was updated on February 29, 2024. 

As we enter into a new year, there’s no better opportunity to transform your outdoor living space. Knowing where to begin is the hard part, but once inspiration strikes, you’ll end up with your favorite outdoor space. 

Continue reading to learn more about our 2024 outdoor decorating trends. We’ll also highlight how you can mold each trend to fit your home’s aesthetic and personal lifestyle.

#1. Natural Flow Between Your Interior and Exterior

As more people are spending time at home, they’re looking to extend their living space to their exterior. Gone are the days when your outdoor space is a plot of grass that doesn’t match your interior design or lifestyle. 

One way homeowners are doing this is by converting part of their backyard into an outdoor kitchen. This space can be fully functional with your most-used appliances or a simplified version of your existing interior kitchen.

Must-haves for your outdoor kitchen should include a granite or marble countertop, a dining table with a set of chairs, and a grill. If you’re looking to take the space a step further, consider adding a brick pizza oven, an outdoor wine cooler, or a skillet stove top. 

To better protect your outdoor kitchen from all the weather elements, we recommended adding a pergola or gazebo to the space. These large structures can keep the area more shaded to reduce the risk of overheating equipment, eliminate snow from piling up within the area, and allow you to still use the space while it’s raining. 

Another way to seamlessly blend your interior and exterior spaces is with a partially covered patio. This can create the perfect combination of comfy living room vibes and the serene sounds of nature. A fully, or partially covered patio can also act as a second living space and help it feel less crowded in your home.

a small garden with three garden boxes with lots of greenery planted.

#2. Sustainable, Low-Maintenance Landscaping

This 2024 garden trend is all about moving towards a greener environment. The options below are going to help your home be more energy-efficient, visually appealing, and fruitful. 

Foodscaping, or edible landscaping is incorporating fruit, vegetables, and herbs into your garden. And it’s growing in popularity. This new trend is not only great for the environment and making your home more sustainable, but also it can help you freshen things up in your kitchen. 

Within your garden, you can incorporate different textures and colors to create a beautiful, and functional space. If you’re new to foodscaping, leafy greens like lettuce or kale, or small tomato plants are a great place to start. Herbs are also an excellent choice for extra flavor in the kitchen. If you allow the herbs to bloom, they’ll also serve as nectar plants for pollinators. 

To further add dimension to your garden, consider vines or climbing plants. These plants can provide shade and cool down the area for you to hang out in. Passionflowers, Trumpet Vines, and English Ivy are all great choices to balance visual appeal and sustainability. 

Include structures and lines in your garden with an arbor or arch. These are also great pieces to help your climbing plants flourish. 

Other ways to move towards a more sustainable landscape are the following 

  • Plant deciduous trees around your property.
  • Block wind by surrounding your home with plant walls.
  • Shade your AC units with shrubs.

 #3. Versatile Spaces

In 2024, we’re moving past buying single-use furniture and exterior pieces. Now, people are swaying towards furniture that’s functional in more than one way, or will be used often. 

Home exteriors are becoming more of an extension of your interior design style, and so homeowners are looking to maximize every space. This 2024 outdoor decorating trend will look different for everyone and should be dependent on your lifestyle and preferences. 

Lawn furniture such as Adirondack chairs, small tables, or benches can be used in a variety of ways and redecorated depending on the season.

12’ x 17’ Wooden Hearthside Amish Pergola With Lattice Roof, Privacy Wall, Superior Posts, Canyon Brown Stain

#4. Comfort is Key

Outdoor lounging is a main priority for homeowners in 2024. The idea of laying outside all day without the feeling of aches and pains the next day is what we all strive for. In 2024, we’re getting rid of plastic outdoor furniture and switching to functional and comfortable pieces. And we hope this 2024 backyard trend is here to stay.

The biggest trend is integrating your interior styles into your landscaping, and comfortability plays a huge role in this. Adding pillows, hammocks, and swings is the perfect way to optimize comfort and style. 

Comfort goes beyond the physical sense. In 2024, create an outdoor oasis that you can truly relax in. Incorporate your favorite colors, scents, and textures to allow yourself to fully immerse in the space. 

Warm lighting is most popular for outdoor spaces and creates a sense of serenity outside. This ambiance is ideal for late-night hangouts, outdoor dinners, or movie nights. Compared to cool lighting, warm lighting is more yellow and less bright so it’s not as jarring at night.

#5. Smart Outdoor Features

Speaking of outdoor lighting, our next 2024 outdoor decor trend emphasizes smart features to make your home more energy-efficient and convenient. You don’t need to completely renovate all your lights in order to incorporate smart features. 

Add smart light bulbs to your existing lamps and fixtures. These bulbs can be controlled from your phone so it’s hands-free and convenient for you. Solar lighting is also an environmentally friendly and convenient decision to light your outdoor paths. 

Entertainment systems and outdoor speakers can spruce up your hangouts and movie nights. As you’re looking at new technologies, it’s important to remember they should be designed to withstand different weather conditions. 

We’ve already mentioned sustainable landscaping as one of the 2024 backyard trends, and you can take this a step further by investing in a smart irrigation system for your lawn and garden. 

A smart irrigation system conserves water and can be a healthy option for your plants. You’ll be able to set a specified watering schedule to limit the risk of over or underwatering your plants. Technical irrigation systems track the health of your plants to let you know what the best course of action is moving forward.

white patio furniture with a bench, small coffee table, and ottoman.

#6. Small, Minimalistic Patios

The final 2024 outdoor decorating trend is focusing on small, minimalistic patios. We’ve talked about bigger areas, your garden, an outside kitchen, or an outdoor living room. But the small, minimalistic spaces are still a popular choice. 

Your patio is very versatile and we’re seeing simplistic styles continue this year. For smaller porches or patios, start with your staple pieces. That could be a set of chairs, a small table, or an outdoor rug. 

Then, pick out seasonal pieces that can be easily interchanged throughout the year. Floral centerpieces, blankets, or signs are a great way to liven the space each season without breaking the bank.

Feeling inspired by these 2024 outdoor decorating trends?

Browse our outdoor furniture and large structures to help you get started.

Find Your Dream Structure
12’ x 17’ Wooden Hearthside Amish Pergola With Superior Posts, Canyon Brown Stain With Fireplace, Overhead Lights

One of the greatest benefits of a pergola is the versatility of the structure. It can be used in a variety of ways for a variety of purposes, depending on what you’re looking for with your exterior home design.

This blog will help you decide where to place your pergola, inspire you with backyard pergola ideas, and highlight ways to incorporate this outdoor structure into your landscaping.

#1. Poolside Sunbathing Lounge

One of the more popular ways to use a pergola is placing it next to your pool. A backyard pool pergola can help keep portions of the area shaded so you can stay out longer without burning. When it’s paired with a pool, it makes for the perfect sunbathing afternoon. 

Design Elements: If you’re looking for the perfect lounge spot, here are some of our recommendations to make the spot your own. 

Lounge Chairs, small tables, and rolled towels are all practical essentials for your poolside pergola. These components will make it easy for you to switch between lounging and a dip in the pool. 

To spruce up the space, you can add decorative elements such as tiki or string lights, lightweight curtains to further shade the area, or hanging plants. If you regularly have dinners outside, you could also add a small dining table with chairs.

a wooden pergola with an outdoor kitchen underneath.

#2. Fresh Meals Under the Stars

There’s nothing better than grilling under the stars, and this patio pergola idea can help you create a defined space for your outdoor kitchen. As you begin to plan your design, consider what types of food you cook regularly to decide what equipment would be most useful. 

Design Elements: This outdoor space should be treated a bit differently than your interior kitchen. Materials and equipment should all be outdoors safe and durable enough to withstand all weather conditions. The right materials and equipment mean less maintenance and repairs for you in the future.

Depending on your cooking preferences, you may want a grill, a brick oven, or an outdoor smoker. You should also consider other permanent elements such as sinks, countertops, or cabinetry. 

As you’re thinking about decorative elements to add to your outdoor kitchen, take inventory of your interior kitchen’s style. This is a great place to start and then the spaces can naturally flow together. 

Your outdoor kitchen is an ideal area to decorate seasonally, you can swap out dining table placemats and floral centerpieces depending on the season or occasion.

a pergola covered in pink florals and vines.

#3. Whimsical Garden Oasis

If your garden is big enough, a pergola can help increase growth and add dimension to your greenery. The roof of a pergola makes for a great support system for vines and hanging plants. A pergola can help your plants have a healthy balance between shade and sunlight. 

Here are some garden pergola ideas that can lighten your backyard and provide a refreshing space for plants to flourish. 

There are a lot of great plant options but some fast-growing vines include Morning Glory, Hydrangea Vine, and Honeysuckle. These plants add vertical dimensions to your garden and can create an immersive and sustainable space. 

Design Elements: Other than some of your favorite flowers and plants, you can add other decorative garden elements to enhance the space. Welcome birds into the environment with hanging feeders or a birdhouse. Wind spinners, a metal watering pot, or lamp posts are all great ways to spruce up your garden. 

You can also put vegetable boxes in your garden that can provide you with fresh foods for your kitchen. If the space allows, you can add a small bench so you can enjoy your garden and have a quiet oasis to connect with nature.

underneath a pergola, a small lounge area with lots of hanging plants, string lights, and greenery.

#4. Your New Outdoor Book Nook

Having a place to rewind can be essential to your mental health and overall well-being, especially if this space is out in nature. Spending time outside can help reduce stress, feel more relaxed, and improve your physical health. 

Design Elements: This space should be designed to be truly your oasis, so incorporate some of your favorite plants, scents, and colors. If you’re looking for some inspiration, here are a few of our recommendations. With all these design elements, make sure you’re getting weather-resistant options.

  • Comfortable chairs or a swing. So you can spend lots of time in this space comfortably, find a hammock, cushioned chair, or outdoor swing.
  • Outdoor Rug. To make the space cozy, add an outdoor rug with your favorite designs or colors.
  • Sensory Elements. This could include wind chimes, a small water feature, or a wind sculpture. These elements can help block out unwanted noises and create a serene atmosphere.
  • Aromatherapy Features. As we mentioned, including some of your favorite things can help you better wind down and relax. Essential oils or candles can relieve pain, elevate your mood, and increase relaxation.
a vinyl pergola with a lounge area underneath and a hot tub next to it.

#5. Personal Patio Spa

Here’s a patio pergola idea that will help you stay warm in the winter and wind down after a long day. Use your pergola to shade an outdoor spa with a hot tub and lounge chair. Let’s go through ways to make the space your own with intimate personal touches. 

Design Elements: Alongside your hot tub, adding outdoor lounge furniture, greenery, and a small fire pit can enhance the space and make it more relaxing for you. For additional ambiance at night, add string or fairy lights around the area or weave them through your pergola.

A pergola with a curtain or shade increases privacy so you don’t have to worry about wandering eyes and also better control airflow.  So, when you’re getting in and out of your hot tub, you’re not hit with harsh cold winds.

#6. Ultimate Entertainment Center

If you’re looking for backyard pergola ideas attached to your house, an outdoor entertainment center may be exactly what you want. Whether you’re looking to watch football on Sundays or set up a Summer movie night, this space can become the ultimate hangout zone. 

As we mentioned above, a pergola provides a bit more privacy for you and helps regulate airflow through the area. If you have a large screen outside, wind could damage the screen or make it a less enjoyable experience. 

Design Elements: Underneath the pergola, you should have some sort of screen and speaker system setup along with comfortable seating. To keep everyone warm and comfortable, you could have patio heaters or a small fire pit. 

Make the space your own by adding fun decorative elements like an outdoor rug, small side tables, and maybe even a popcorn machine!

Choosing Your Pergola Material

As you’re beginning to browse backyard pergola ideas, you’ll need to consider what material is best for your home. The two most common options are wood or vinyl. Both have their own set of pros and cons.

The biggest difference between the two materials is the color options. With a wooden pergola, you can paint or stain it to whatever color you desire. On the other hand, a vinyl pergola can never be repainted so you won’t be able to change colors after you purchase the structure. 

Once you decide where to place your pergola and its purpose, you’ll have a better idea of what material suits you best.

Bring Your Backyard Pergola Ideas to Life with a Customized Structure

Along with Penn Dutch Structures’ wide selection of pergola designs, you can also customize one yourself, from start to finish.

Start Designing Yours

When making the decision to buy a shed, there are a lot of things to consider. What size is best? What materials are more durable? What style matches your home? And how can you prepare for your shed installation? 

In our new shed buying guide, we answer all these questions and more so you’re confident with your decision to purchase a new outdoor structure.

Reasons to Buy a Shed

  • Additional Storage. If your home or garage is bursting with tools, boxes, toys, and bins, a storage shed can help expand the space and allow for more organization in your home.
     
  • Increase Curb Appeal. A well-designed shed can add visual appeal to your home and help your landscaping look put together. There are even customization options to match your shed to the rest of your home, but we’ll get to that later in this shed buying guide.

  • Added Security. When backyard equipment, toys, or other items are out and easily accessible, your home becomes more interesting to potential intruders. A shed can help you not only keep these items organized but also secure, so your house is of less interest to people walking by.

Buying a Shed vs. Renting a Storage Unit

One of the first thoughts you may have if you need more storage is to rent out a separate unit rather than buying a shed. Oftentimes, this is the easy way to get items out of your home. However, this isn’t the most financially savvy choice. 

On average, monthly costs for a storage unit can range between $75 to $300 depending on the size and location. These costs only include the physical space. You may also have additional fees for insurance, climate-control units, and taxes. 

On the other hand, buying a shed has a larger initial cost but provides more long-term value. You’ll have full control over your storage space and everything is accessible from your backyard.

If you’re weary about the upfront costs of a shed, there are rent-to-own programs available. This allows you to pay smaller monthly payments until you pay off the entirety of the shed cost.

What Size Shed Do I Need?

The size you need will depend on the purpose of your shed. Ask yourself the following to help get an idea of what size is needed. 

  1. What are the main tools, items, or pieces of equipment that I’ll be storing in the shed?
  2. Where will I put this shed, is the location conducive to the size I want?
  3. Are there any restrictions on what size shed I can have on my property?

Here are our general guidelines for storage shed sizes and what their best purpose is. 

  • 8’ x 10’ Sheds — Perfect size for a small yard.
  • 10’ x 10’ Sheds — Suitable space for use as a gardening shed.
  • 10’ x 20’ Sheds or 12’ x 24’ Sheds — Plenty of room available for a workshop.
  • 14’ x  28’ Sheds — Easily accommodates riding lawn mowers or ATVs.

You also need to consider the additional space needed for your shed foundation. 

  • At least 1’ of space on all sides for your foundation.
  • At least 3’ of space between your shed and any fencing or trees.
  • Additional “setback” from property lines, roads, or floodplains that are regulated by your municipality.
a medium shed with tan siding and red shutters and a red door.

Choosing a Shed Style

Now comes the exciting section of our shed buying guide! Choosing the right shed style is where you can truly customize your structure so it fits with the rest of your home. At Penn Dutch Structures we have a wide variety of designs and styles for you to choose from. 

Some of our most popular shed styles include: 

  • Dutch Barn – A traditional barn look with a classic gambrel roof to add country style to your landscaping. 
  • Board & Batten – These sheds are made by altering wide boards and narrow strips to create a unique design. 
  • A-Frame – We have three different A-Frame styles including, our original A-Frame, A-Frame Elite, and A-Frame garden. The popular peak roof style is available for all choices but each style varies in size to serve different purposes. 
  • Quaker – A traditional shed style, the Quaker comes with a roof overhang and lots of overhead interior space to store taller items. 
  • Chalet – Also with a very high roof, Chalet sheds allow for a lot of storage space without overtaking your backyard space.

Shed Accessories and Customizations

At Penn Dutch Structures, we have a lot of standard designs that can be elevated with customizations. We can customize the following for your new shed. 

  • Building & Trim Color
  • Windows, Doors & Garage Doors 
  • Vents
  • Lofts 
  • Weathervanes

Aside from these customization options, there are also shed accessories for you to incorporate into your final design. 

If your shed is holding large equipment or a riding mower, you can build a shed ramp to easily get in and out of your structure. You can decide to build the ramp yourself or buy a ramp from a home improvement store. 

At the beginning of this shed buying guide, we highlighted that one benefit to a shed is higher security for your backyard items. You can further increase shed security by implementing physical locks, exterior lighting, and cameras surrounding the area. 

You can also include shed accessories within your shed. Keep the interior of your shed organized by adding shelving, hooks, and bins.

Materials Used to Build Your Shed

As part of these customizations, you can choose different materials for your shed. Each comes with benefits and easy maintenance. The decision comes down to the style you’re looking for.

Shed Roof Materials

At Penn Dutch Structures, we use architectural shingles as our main roof material compared to 3-tab shingles. Architectural shingles provide more dimension and texture to your roof which ultimately provides a higher visual appeal. 

Architectural shingles are thicker and more durable as well. In bad weather or severe storms, they’re less susceptible to warping, peeling, or buckling.

Wood vs. Vinyl Siding

Your exterior shed wall material options are wood or vinyl. Both are extremely durable options but there are some differences in terms of resistance, lifespan, and customizations. 

All vinyl siding is naturally rot- and insect-resistant whereas there are only certain types of wood that are naturally resistant to rot and insects. Also, generally speaking, vinyl siding sheds are known to last a bit longer than wood siding. 

Because of the way each shed is constructed, wooden sheds are generally cheaper than vinyl sheds. Just like anything else, the wooden sheds will require more maintenance down the line but have a lower upfront cost. 

If you’re looking for a natural shed style, wood siding can provide that. Whereas vinyl siding can provide you with a pop of color in your landscaping. It truly depends on what backyard theme you’re looking for.

a small shed with a garage door and a maroon door with matching shutters.

Preparing For a New Shed

Once you find the perfect shed for your home, it’s time to prepare for installation. There are two different ways you should prepare for your new shed. 

First, by ensuring you’re following all of your HOA regulations. And second, by making sure the shed foundation is ready for our team to come install the structure.

Permits and Zoning Regulations

If you live in a residential community or a residential zone, you may be a part of a Homeowners Association. If you are, you likely have to follow a certain set of regulations when adding to your property. 

Your HOA legislation could limit the size of your shed or a maximum height. These rules may also give guidance on where you can place your shed. Specifically, you can’t place your shed too close to the edge of your property line or the road. 

It’s important to check your HOA’s committee process so you can submit the appropriate documentation to them. Some possible documents would be site plans, images of the shed and the dimensions, and a topographic map.

Building a Shed Foundation

The final step of our shed buying guide is how to prepare your site for installation. As we mentioned before, there are additional dimensions you have to consider for your shed foundation. 

You’ll need to level out this foundation, either with gravel or concrete, and then install a retaining wall. Finally, when you’re ready for our team to install your shed, we’ll need a clear path to the shed foundation.

This blog was originally published on February 26th, 2019, and updated on December 1st, 2023.

Ready to Take Action with this Shed Buying Guide?

Now that you know the steps to take to buy a shed, take action by browsing our entire collection and finding your favorites. Each of our sheds comes with a 5-year warranty, delivery, and installation services. 

View Our Shed Styles
10' x 14' Elite A-frame Shed - Wood
A-Frame Elite

In previous blogs, we’ve talked about how to decide what style of horse barn to purchase based on your horses, property, and intended use. 

Now, you’ve bought a horse barn and want to expand its lifecycle, keep it looking brand new, and ensure your horses are living a long and healthy life. After reading this blog, you’ll have actionable steps you can take to maximize your horse barn maintenance so your horses are happy and healthy.

How to Clean a Horse Stall

Let’s start with the interior of your barn. No matter what you’re cleaning within your horse barn, make sure you’re not using toxic chemicals that could harm your horses. Chemicals and products that have bleach in them can cause stomach issues for your horse. 

Cleaning the stalls is crucial to your horse’s health and overall wellness. Because horses lie down at night and are constantly standing in the stalls, bacterial infections can become an issue if the stalls are dirty.

To make this process easier, you can incorporate proper horse stall drainage. This is going to help with the smell, the necessary cleaning, and the health of your horse. Rubber mats and drains in the floor are a great way to not let dirt and smells build up, especially if you can’t clean the stall daily. 

Doing a basic cleanse of the stall and cleaning the floors daily is not only going to decrease the risk of your horse getting sick, but also protect your wooden stalls from rot, mold, and insect damage. 

Use a rake to sift through manure and shavings and spread pine shavings to soak up any wet spots in the stalls. You should also pull out the rubber mats and rinse them off with a hose. As you’re cleaning the stalls, sweep through the common areas like hallways and feeding areas. 

Once everything is cleaned, make sure you dry all the stalls and hallways so the interior stays moisture-free. This prevents rot and mold, so the interior of your horse barn is expanded. We recommend using horse barn fans to keep everything dry.

After you clean the floors and stalls, check the water troughs, automatic feeders, and hay to make sure everything is filled and stocked. 

When cleaning the water troughs, you can use disinfectant spray but make sure you’re waiting at least an hour before letting your horses drink from the trough. This allows the cleaning products to dissipate.

Tips for Storing Your Hay & Feed

Proper horse barn hay storage is important for maintaining and keeping animals and insects out of your barn. Here are some tips to help you keep your hay safe from critters. 

1. Put a tarp over the hay to protect it from droppings, sunlight, and dust.

2. Keep your hay in a dry place to avoid moisture build-up.

3. Don’t store your hay on the ground as this will welcome critters and pests into the storage area.

4. Store your hay away from your barn, since hay is highly flammable, it can be the start of a dangerous accident if your hay starts to burn and catch fire around your barn.

5. Rotate your old and new hay. As you get new hay, make sure you’re mixing it with old hay so there’s a reduced risk of your product going bad.

Increase Your Horse Barn Ventilation

By having ventilation in your barn, you’re putting fresh air into the space and preventing your horses from getting respiratory issues. You can choose to ventilate your horse barn with windows naturally, but this may not be a year-round solution. 

We recommend installing ceiling fans for your horse barn so you can maintain high ventilation all year long. That way, dust and moisture won’t build up in the stalls and you’re removing potentially harmful particles from the air.

a horse with its head sticking out of a barn stable.

Keeping Pests Out of Your Barn

There are a lot of things in your barn that could be inviting for pests. Without proper horse stall cleaning or hay storage, you may be welcoming rats, insects, and other small animals into the space.

Other than the inconvenience of unwanted critters, certain animals can carry diseases and potentially harm the health of your horses. One way to deter mice or smaller rodents from your barn is to have barn cats in the area. 

During the Winter, animals are more likely to find shelter and warmth in your barn, so we recommend taking proactive steps in the Summer and Fall to prepare for the colder months. One of the best natural ways to keep pests out of your barn is to keep it clean and organized. 

The first step is ensuring all your food sources are secure and sealed. This includes checking the window and door frames of your storage space for small holes. If you find any cracks or holes, use caulk to seal them up. 

To further discourage mice and other small animals in your barn, keep potential nesting materials away from each other. Wraps, padding, and hay are all appealing options for mice to make nests, so if you keep these in separate areas, mice are less likely to create homes within your barn. 

If it becomes necessary, there are traps and pesticide products you can use to get rid of mice and small animals from your barn. It’s crucial to find products that won’t harm your horse’s health but can effectively deter mice from staying in the space.

Maintaining the Exterior of Your Horse Barn

Now that we’ve gone through horse barn maintenance tips for the interior of your barn, let’s move to exterior horse barn cleaning tips.

The Siding and Roof of Your Horse Barn

At Penn Dutch Structures, we offer metal and wooden horse barns. We also offer architectural shingles or metal roofing. Depending on the siding and roof style, you may use different cleaning supplies. 

Both wooden and metal structures require fairly little maintenance to stay clean. Every so often, depending on the location of your horse barn, you should rinse the siding and roof with a simple water and detergent solution.

a full pasture with six horses grazing.

Your Horse Pasture

Your horse’s home extends into the pasture and should also be well-maintained. By keeping up with pasture maintenance, you’re keeping your horses happy, deterring unwanted critters from getting close to your barn, and increasing the visual appeal of your landscaping. 

Just like when you’re cleaning the interior of your horse barn, be conscious of what products you’re using to care for the pasture. If you have weeds you’re looking to get rid of, remember that your horses may be inclined to eat these weeds. So if you spray them with something toxic, your horse will suffer. 

Mowing your pasture helps reduce the growth of weeds and helps your grass continue to grow to produce nutrients for your horses. Your horses love grazing on grass, and the more nutrients provided, the better.

Additions to Your Barn to Make Your Horses Happy

Ready to put these horse barn maintenance tips to use? Browse our ventilation systems and horse feed storage options to add to your existing horse barn.

Browse Horse Barn Cabinets

As you start to shop for a new outdoor structure, you’ll likely come across little details that need to be decided. What type of siding is best? What color trim will you have for your windows? And even, what type of roofing should I choose? 

All these decisions can become overwhelming. In this blog, we’ll dive into the details of architectural shingles vs. 3-tab shingles and which is better for your next outdoor structure. That way, you can feel confident you’re making the right financial and visual decision.

What Are Each Type Made Of?

Let’s start our comparison with each material type. A significant difference between the two shingles is the quality of the materials. In short, you’ll find that architectural shingles are of a higher quality than 3-tab shingles.

3-Tab Shingles

These shingles used to be the standard for roofing but are now less likely to be used by home builders. This is because the lower cost of 3-tab shingles is often outweighed by their disadvantages. 

3-tab shingles are made out of asphalt and adhesives with a fiberglass backing. They are relatively thin and measure about 3/16 of an inch. When they are installed, they are doubled up to create better durability, making them about 6/16 of an inch thick. 

Since the shingles are all the same dimension and depth, you’re going to get a very flat-looking roof. Because of this, these shingles are more prone to blowing away from strong winds or buckling over time.

Architectural Shingles

On the other hand, architectural shingles are growing in demand and are quickly becoming the standard material for many new home builders. Unlike 3-tab shingles, they are most recognized for having a multi-dimensional design. 

Another reason for their increased popularity is architectural shingles are made with heavier fiberglass, ceramic-coated granules, and water-resistant asphalt. With these enhancements, the cost of architectural shingles is higher, but ultimately more durable and aesthetically pleasing. 

The heightened durability of architectural shingles means that you are less likely to require costly maintenance repairs or replacements down the road. On average, this type of shingle can last anywhere from 20 to 30 years if it is well-maintained.

How do Costs Differ?

When you start shopping between the different types of shingles, you’re going to notice a bit of a cost difference. The cost of 3-tab shingles is less than the cost of architectural shingles, but again, you’re going to get what you pay for. 

Architectural shingles are more durable and less susceptible to warping, peeling, or buckling. They are also more resistant to intense weather and strong winds. With 3-tab shingles, you may find yourself having to make repairs or replacements after severe storms.

a large shed with architectural shingles and red shutters and trim.

Pros and Cons of Each Shingle

For each type of shingle, there are advantages and disadvantages. Below, we’ll list out each so you can have a better apples-to-apples comparison.

Pros and Cons of 3-tab Shingles

Pros: 

Cons:

  • Flat layer shingles that are thinner and weigh less.
  • More prone to blowing away, curbing, or buckling.
  • Need to be replaced more often — lasts an average of 12 – 15 years.

Pros and Cons of Architectural Shingles

Pros: 

  • The dimensional design adds more visual appeal.
  • Designed with a thicker, sturdier mat, finer quality asphalt, and stronger adhesive.
  • The extra weight provides more strength against wind lift.
  • Rated to resist higher wind speeds — up to 130 mph.
  • More color options are available.
  • Carry a longer warranty — 20 – 50 years.

Cons: 

  • Have a higher upfront cost.
  • Since they are heavier, some structures may require additional installation support to hold this type of roof.
a red barn with a metal roof and a cupola on top.

Metal Roofing Options

Another roofing option that we haven’t mentioned, but is offered and popular, is a metal roof. This style of roof is going to provide an entirely different look compared to both architectural and 3-tab shingles. 

Metal roofing is the most expensive option, but also lasts the longest compared to architectural or 3-tab shingles. 

At Penn Dutch Structures, we offer standing seam metal roofing for all of our products. Panels of standing seam metal roofing feature a raised seam that rises above the initial level of the roof. This also creates texture and dimension for your roof.

Another style of metal roofing is ribbed metal roofing. The panels are ribbed or corrugated, with wavy U-shaped curves. The main difference between ribbed metal and standing seam metal panels is the position of the fasteners. 

They are exposed on ribbed panels and hidden on standing seam panels. This means a ribbed metal roof may require additional maintenance. They are, however, a less expensive roofing option when compared to other metal options.

There are other advantages to metal roofing, including:

  • Fasteners are not exposed to UV, moisture, and weather elements. Ultimately this means there is less wear exposure, less water damage,  and a cleaner appearance.
  • Proven to withstand extreme weather.
  • Panels expand and contract better in hot and cold temperatures — there is less chance of waving or rippling of the metal.
  • Cleaning and maintaining your metal roof requires low maintenance. We recommend cleaning your roof every so often to clear debris and dirt from the top. You can use a simple water and detergent solution.

Choosing Styles & Colors of Roofs with Architectural Shingles

Roof styles are more than just for your home, you can also choose different styles and architectural shingle colors for your shed, garage, horse barn, log cabin, or gazebo. At Penn Dutch Structures, you can customize your structure to match the rest of your home’s aesthetic.  

Here are some factors to take in as you are deciding what architectural shingles color to choose. Consider your home’s style, the color of your structure’s siding, and the location of your outdoor structure. 

For example, a black, or darker color roof will attract heat. So, if your shed is sitting in the sun all day, the things within the shed may get more heat and rise in temperature with a darker roof. 

Another factor we mentioned above is your home’s style. What design elements are incorporated into your home that you would want to continue to use in your outdoor landscape? Are there specific colors that should be used on your exterior structures? 

Ultimately, you’ll have more vibrant color options with metal roofing, but shingles can give you a neutral and earthy tone to match your landscaping. Our team can help provide insight on what shingle color will look best with the rest of your structural elements, such as trim, siding, and any door colors. 

The shape of the physical shingle will be the same, but you can get various outdoor structures that come in different shapes that complement the existing style and lines of your home. 

By adding customizations and personal touches to your outdoor structure, with even the smallest details such as architectural shingles, you will boost your home’s curb appeal and contribute to an aesthetically pleasing landscape.

Know the difference between architectural shingles vs. 3-tab shingles so you can feel confident you’re getting the best value in your new outdoor structure.

Looking for an exterior upgrade? Browse all of Penn Dutch Structures’ backyard structures.

Explore All Outdoor Structures

This blog was originally published on January 29th, 2019, and was updated on September 21st, 2023.

So you’ve just bought a new garage. Your yard feels organized, and your vehicle is tucked away from the weather elements. But how are you protecting your items and ensuring your home is safe?

In previous blogs, we’ve talked about how to secure your sheds, but there are a lot of valuable items in your detached garage that should be just as protected. 

Below, we’ll highlight some recommended tools and brands, and tips that help enhance your detached garage security and make you feel safer.

Skip Ahead:

Placement of Your Detached Garage

As you’re preparing for the installation of your detached garage, consider where it sits in terms of the street. Is it easily accessible? Are people walking by able to see into the space? You don’t want to be advertising what’s inside your garage. 

Your garage should be placed for practical use, a place where you can easily access it and use it regularly. But, it’s important to make sure the detached garage can’t be accessed easily by neighbors or people walking by.

Securing the Outside of Your Garage

The first step in securing your garage is to check the outside surroundings of the area. This is an important step to complete because the outside of your home can provide a lot of indications and information about the security of your home. 

A potential intruder will be looking and scanning the property for certain boundaries that would hinder them from getting in. If they see these products, they will likely be turned away from trying to get on your property.

Exterior Lighting

Adding light to your garage and the surrounding area makes it less vulnerable to intruders. Along with enhancing your security, exterior lighting can also add an elegant layer to your landscaping. There are a variety of different lighting options and styles that can match the rest of your home, so they don’t stick out like a sore thumb. 

We’d also recommend installing motion sensor lighting so whenever movement occurs around your garage, the entire area will light up. 

As an additional security tip, you can install interior lighting as well. That way, if something, or someone, does get into your garage, the inside will light up and you can be alerted of any activity.

Security Camera

Security cameras for detached garages are able to let you see what’s happening around the area, even when you’re away. This helps you feel more comfortable when you’re leaving your home for an extended period of time. 

There are a lot of options for security cameras or security systems for your detached garage. You should find something that works for your yard and can effectively capture the necessary landscaping to ensure your home is secure.

Alarm System

The final product that helps you have a well-rounded security system and increases protection for your home is an alarm system. An alarm system has the ability to give you an immediate notification or alert if someone is lurking around your home. 

Just like a security camera, this system can provide assurance that your home is well protected even when you’re away. 

Although a majority of these products are used for an intruder, exterior lighting, security cameras, and alarm systems can also help you if an animal is getting into your detached garage. They can sometimes be just as damaging to your home.

a white garage with two white garage doors.

Strengthen Your Garage Door Security

Now that you have a list of security products you can use to protect your home, we’ll move into additions you can consider when designing your garage to enhance its security. Having a secure garage door and surrounding area creates a barrier for anyone looking to get into your garage.

Using a Garage Door Opener

A common device homeowners use to ensure they have a secure garage door is a remote control opener. This product also increases convenience because you can open your garage door while in your car, on a mower, or with your hands full. 

It also makes it extremely difficult for someone to manually open your garage door. Which is ultimately going to make your door, and home, more secure. To take your security up a notch, there are smart garage door openers available. They will alert you when your garage door opens so you can be aware of any irregular activities.

Decorating with Windows

As we mentioned earlier, you don’t want to advertise to the world what’s inside your garage space. But that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t have windows for your decorative style. The question is, how do you create a balance between security and aesthetics?

You have a couple of options when it comes to increasing your window security. You can purchase a security or tinted film to put on your windows or add blinds or curtains. Blinds or curtains can add a pop of color or be more in tune with your decorative style to your garage. Both options will obscure people’s view of your space.

a yellow garage with two white garage doors and matching windows above each garage door.

6 Additional Tips to Enhance Your Detached Garage Security

The last section of our detached garage security guide will leave you with 5 tips we recommend you start implementing today. 

#1. Never Leave Your Garage Door Open and Unattended

If you’re going to be away from your garage for a long period of time, make sure you’re closing and locking your garage door. Even in the Summer, when you’re working outside and going in and out of the space, it’s best to be aware of your surroundings and have your garage door closed if you’re not in a direct vicinity. 

When your garage door is open in broad daylight, it allows people walking by to easily see into the space and view any valuables that they could be interested in.

#2. Keep Your Garage Organized

Now, let’s take that first recommendation a step further. Let’s say someone does see into your garage and notices that everything is just kind of thrown in there and not organized. They may be more likely to take something from a messy garage. 

By keeping the interior of your garage organized and well-maintained, it gives off the impression that you know what’s in your garage space, and where. So, you’ll be more likely to notice and report something if it goes missing.

#3. Regularly Change Your Garage Opener Code

Previously, we mentioned the benefit of implementing a remote garage door opener to enhance your detached garage security. This is a great idea, but you should regularly change the code in case it falls into the wrong hands. 

Let’s say you’re going on vacation and have someone you trust house-sitting. If you give them your code, make sure you immediately change it once you’re back. In normal circumstances, we recommend changing the code at least twice a year.

#4. Include Your Garage Under Your Homeowners Insurance

Luckily, all garages, detached or attached, are included in your homeowner’s insurance. Your detached structure will be under Coverage B. This is important to have so that in case of a break-in or robbery, you can get money for the damages.

A tan garage with green trim and small shrubs surrounding the base.

#5. Add Plants and Trees to Add Privacy to Your Home

This can be a visually appealing and natural way to make your home feel more secure and private. Thick hedges, tall trees, and vines can obscure the view into your backyard and give neighbors and people passing by less motivation to explore your home.

#6. Think Like a Robber

The last recommendation we have is to think like a robber. This is a proactive way to keep your home protected. Every so often, do a scan of your landscaping and backyard to see if there are any holes in your security. 

You can ask yourself the following questions.

  • Is there an easy way someone can see into my garage from the road?
  • How can someone get into my garage? Are those areas secure?
  • Who knows the code for my garage? Is it time to change it? 

It’s crucial that you invest in detached garage security and you’re taking the necessary steps to keep your items protected. Although there will be upfront costs, in the long run, you’ll feel more confident in knowing your valuables are safe.

Still think your garage is too unsafe?

Penn Dutch Structures offers a wide variety of garage doors that are built with safety and security in mind.

Browse Our Garage Collection

Hunting is a long-held pastime that many people use to provide food for their families or build special bonds between generations. In South Central and Southeast Pennsylvania and Western Maryland, this includes fowl and deer hunting. People appreciate the tradition and skill that are involved in hunting. 

This blog provides you with the benefits of elevated hunting blinds to reduce the disadvantages of hunting and experience a successful hunt, whether bow hunting or rifle hunting.

Tree Stand vs. Elevated Hunting Blind

Before we dive into the benefits of elevated hunting blinds, you’ll first need to make the decision of whether you want a tree stand or an elevated hunting blind. The biggest difference is an elevated hunting blind sits on the ground, while a tree stand sits in a tree. 

One of the downfalls to tree stands vs. elevated hunting blinds is they can’t be as secure or as structurally sound. It’s harder to find a strong tree that supports your weight, hunting gear, and tree stand. On the other hand, an elevated blind is a more permanent, secure structure. 

A benefit to tree stands is that some are made to allow hunters to be more mobile and adaptable so you can quickly change areas if necessary. Lastly, both tree stands and hunting blinds can allow for 2-man options, or be made for just yourself.

Benefits of Elevated Hunting Blinds

All hunting blinds have the advantage of protecting you from the elements, providing a warm space to wait out your hunt and space to keep your equipment dry. Here are additional benefits you’ll find when using an elevated hunting blind.

Makes You Less Visible

An elevated hunting stand not only keeps you out of the eye level of deer and other animals, but it also gives you a better view of the area so you can get a full picture of your surroundings. When you’re on the ground, you may be impaired by bushes, fallen trunks, and leaves. 

With an elevated view and windows all around your blind, you get a 360-degree view of the area. So you’re aware of everything going on from every angle. This gives you a great advantage to see any and all opportunities for a great shot. 

Finally, our elevated hunting blinds come in camouflaged designs to better blend into the outdoors and keep animals from spotting your presence. Within your hunting blind, you don’t have to be as conscious of your movements and sounds you make as you’re shuffling around.

Conceals Movement

Whether you’re loading a bow or positioning your rifle, hunting blinds help conceal the slight movements you make. Which includes movements that seem natural to you, but can cause an animal to become more alert of your presence. 

Deer have the ability to detect the slightest movement 4 times faster than a human being. So, even the tiniest and quietest movements will put a deer on edge and make them more aware of the surroundings.

Masks Your Scent

Animals are immediately going to recognize an unknown scent and stay far away from it. The human body itself produces a lot of VOCs, or natural smells that can be picked up very easily by an animal. In order to avoid this aversion, protect yourself within an elevated hunting stand. 

Many blinds are constructed with scent-blocking materials which limits one of an animal’s keenest senses. We also recommend installing the blind at least a month prior to hunting season and covering the base of your stand with branches, leaves, and brush. This helps protect the new scent and allows deer and other animals to get comfortable with it prior to hunting season.

Octagon Elevated Amish Built Deer Blind

Remains in Place

As we’ve mentioned above, even the slightest movements will make an animal more aware of its surroundings. In an elevated hunting blind, you’ll be sitting and hunting in a permanent structure so you won’t have to be shuffling around and creating lots of movement. 

Since it’s a permanent structure, animals eventually become complacent to your presence, and the hunting blind, so it’s no longer viewed as a threat. The hunting blind will become a natural element in the environment and animals won’t give it a second thought. 

With that being said, make sure you’re doing your research and finding the right spot for your elevated hunting stand. Scout out paths and travel habits, as well as sleeping and eating patterns. This research will help you be proactive and ultimately more successful during your hunts. 

Also, by investing in a permanent structure, you can put it in a secure and secret place near a log cabin or hunting cabin for even more convenience.

Structurally Sound

Quadpod stands are used in many elevated hunting blinds and are structurally sound and a great choice when safe trees are not as readily available to you. And as we’ve discussed already, hunting blinds are a more permanent structure and ultimately the more reliable choice.

Makes Hunting More Comfortable

Hunting days are long, and in order to be successful you need to be as quiet as possible. Sitting perfectly still and quiet on the ground or up in a tree can become quite uncomfortable. Wait for the right shot and stay comfortable in an elevated hunting stand. 

Also, you must consider the different weather elements. Throughout the day, you may experience rain, wind, or snow. It becomes an unfavorable experience if you’re out in the open. An elevated hunting stand has a secure roof and siding so it better protects you from the weather.

Elevated Hunting Blind Designs

There are a couple of different heights and shapes that your elevated hunting blind can come in. The height that works best for you will depend on where you’re hunting and your comfort. The shape depends on the area you want to install it in and what works best for you. 

Your blind should be high enough where you’re not at eye level with animals but make sure it’s not too high where you feel the effects of wind or aren’t comfortable being that high off the ground. 

You will also need to consider the size of your hunting blind. Are you typically hunting by yourself? Or should there be room for two hunters? At Penn Dutch Structures, we have a variety of shape options, either can be chosen based on the hunter’s preference. 

The windows in your elevated hunting blind design also play a key role. You will need a lot of natural light so you can see your equipment and area well. And with a higher shooting window, you shoot at a downward angle so if you do miss, there’s less chance of safety risks.

Square Elevated Amish Built Deer Blind

Elevated Hunting Blind Accessories

Once you have the ideal structure, it’s time to get your elevated hunting blind accessories. These accessories will help you with your game and allow you to be prepared for any situation.

  1. Shelf and Shooting Rest. Have a secure spot to support your shooting and ultimately give you a more precise shot. 
  2. Shooters Chair. Rather than standing or sitting on the ground, use a shooter’s chair for maximum comfort. 
  3. Shooting Bag. Rest your gun on a shooting bag to keep a steady hand and have a more accurate shot.  
  4. Clear Window Panels. Protect yourself from weather elements and better mask your scent with clear window panels.  
  5. Floor Mats. This is another accessory that heightens your comfort and reduces the risk of slipping and falling when you’re in the elevated hunting blind. 


Interested In Getting the Most Out of Your Hunting?

browse our in-stock inventory or have a custom-designed stand built.  Visit our Glen Rock, PA or Finksburg, MD locations.

View Our Elevated Hunting Blinds
Octagon Elevated Amish Built Deer Blind

This blog was originally published on September 30th, 2019, and was updated on July 29th, 2023.

Picture this: it’s a warm Summer day and you’re lounging out on your patio. You look out onto your yard and see a whole host of tools and equipment scattered around. You think to yourself, maybe it’s time to clean things up and boost your home’s curb appeal. 

You can clean up your yard, boost your curb appeal, and maybe even find a new hobby to enjoy by purchasing a new outdoor shed. There are countless types of shed designs for you to choose from. We’ll outline them below so you can find one that matches your home and exterior style.

Choose a Landscaping Style

Before we dive into the individual types of shed styles that Penn Dutch Structures offers, we should first look at the bigger picture. It’s important to accentuate your landscaping style with a new shed, so it won’t stick out like a sore thumb. 

There are hundreds of different inspirations that can create your ideal backyard. So whether you’re looking for a backyard filled with greenery and a lovely garden, or it’s modern with clean lines or bold with different pops of color, you should find a new shed to complement your preferences.

The Purpose of Your Shed

As part of defining your landscape structure, you should also determine how you’ll be using your new shed. Will it be a storage space to keep your backyard clean? Will you turn it into a she-shed or man cave so you can start some new hobbies?

an A-frame shed with a small garden in surrounding the shed.

A-Frame Shed

So let’s dive into the different styles of shed designs you can choose from. We’ll start with the A-Frame shed. There are three different types of A-Frame style sheds offered at Penn Dutch Structures. They are A-Frame, A-Frame Elite, and Garden A-Frame.

The main difference between the three of these shed styles is the size of each and the roof pitch, or the steepness of the roof. There is a roof pitch associated with all of our sheds, so let’s break down what that exactly means. 

The roof pitch numbers highlight how high the roof goes for every 12 inches. So a standard A-Frame shed style has a roof pitch of 5 over 12. If we compare this to the roof pitch of an Elite shed, which is 8 over 12, and then a Garden shed, which is 11 over 12, you’ll see that each is slightly steeper than the one before. 

The higher the roof pitch, and ultimately the steeper the roof, means there’s more headspace within the shed. This is why, historically, garden sheds with steep roofs are used to store tall garden tools, and other smaller outdoor equipment. 

No matter the specific A-Frame style shed you choose, you have the option between top-grade wood or vinyl as the material. Each style requires very little maintenance and is very durable to withstand a variety of weather conditions.

a cape shed with green trim and shutters.

Cape Shed

Similar to the A-Frame and a majority of the Penn Dutch Structures’ sheds, the Cape shed style will come with double entrance doors and at least one window with shutters. For sheds larger than 8’ x 12’, two windows will be included. 

There are two different Cape shed styles, Cape and Cape Elite. The roof pitch is a key difference between these two styles. The Cape shed has a roof pitch of 7/12 whereas the Cape Elite style has a roof pitch of 8/12. 

The type of shed is a classic shape and style that can either blend in with your existing landscape or become a bold statement in your backyard.

a red carriage shed with white trim and a small porch attached.

Carriage Shed

A carriage shed style is known to have an offset roof, similar to the Quaker style that we’ll discuss later in this blog. The benefit of an offset roof is added headspace so again, larger tools and equipment can easily fit within this shed design. 

On our carriage shed styles, the average roof pitch is 6.6 over 12. This means that the roof rises 6.6 inches for every 12 inches. Then, the steeper part of the roof is 7 over 12. You’ll continue to see this roof pitch number in multiple shed styles and can use this same methodology for every style.

a white chalet shed with a front-facing garage door.

Chalet Shed

The Chalet shed designs are known for their high roof pitch, which is typically a 12 over 12. Because of this high roof, you can put a loft for extra storage or your chalet can be used as a detached garage with an overhead door. 

At Penn Dutch Structures, your Chalet shed can be as small as 10’ by 10’ or as large as 14’ by 40’. You’ll want to find the perfect size that allows for maximized space for storage but doesn’t overwhelm your exterior landscaping. 

As a part of the customization process, you’ll be able to choose siding and trim colors to match the rest of your landscaping and your home’s style. You may also decide to add a flower box, ramp, or larger windows to further customize your structure.

a classic shed style with a double entrance door and two windows.

Classic Shed

The Classic shed design is a timeless style that can blend into a variety of landscaping designs. This type of shed can be as small as 6’ by 6’ or as large as 14’ by 40’ which means you have flexibility so you can accommodate everything you need. 

There are multiple types of shed roofs that you can choose from with the Classic shed design. Traditionally, there are two sides to your roof that meet to create a peak. With this type of shed, you have the option of choosing multiple peaks to create more dimension to your landscaping. 

At Penn Dutch Structures, you also have the option to upgrade your shed to the New England Deluxe Wood Trim Package, which is 5 inches wider and available in 13 different colors. We also have add-ons of various styles of dormer packages.

a cottage style shed with a double entrance door and one window with green shutters.

Cottage Shed

The Cottage shed design has a much flatter roof than other types of sheds, with a roof pitch of 5/12, so it can blend seamlessly into your backyard’s style. Just like a majority of Penn Dutch Structures’ sheds, the smallest size is 6’ by 6’ so it can fit into a garden or you can choose our largest size of 14’ by 32’ that fits well in your backyard. 

You can upgrade your Cottage shed with New England Deluxe Trim which offers a 5” wider trim and 13 different color options.

a blue dutch barn shed with white trim around the double entrance doors.

Barn Shed

Both the Dutch Barn sheds and the Mini Barn sheds showcase a unique style of shed compared to the rest of our products. If you like the aesthetic of a classic farm property but don’t have the space for a large barn, this is the perfect type of shed for you. 

These barn shed designs have a Gambrel barn-style roof which has four roof panels instead of two. These extra panels allow for more space and are ideal for tractors and large equipment to safely fit in the shed. 

Typically, Dutch Barn sheds come with a 6’ or 6’ 6” high side wall. You can opt to include the Wide Trim Package and add a loft to your Dutch Barn for additional storage space. This add-on is optional and can be fully customizable to match your needs. 

Mini Barn sheds, which have a 4’ high side wall, are the ideal size for small storage spaces that can hold basic gardening tools or equipment. They come with double entrance doors so there’s plenty of space to navigate a lawn mower or smaller tractor. 

a villa shed style with a small mulch garden in front of each window.

Villa Shed

The villa shed design is a modern shed and one of our newest designs from Penn Dutch Structures. This shed allows you to store your equipment in style, or have a space to do some of your favorite hobbies. 

This type of shed roof is different from the others and is a Hip roof with four sides, unlike the traditional Gable roof, which only has two sides. The roof pitch is measured at 7/12. 

These sheds can also be made large enough to include an overhead garage door that can be upgraded with a ramp for easy access for your mower or small tractor. 

a quaker shed with red trim and doors and two windows.

Quaker Shed

The final type of shed Penn Dutch Structures offers is a Quaker shed. This style has a roof overhang which provides a layer of shade and protection to the exterior of your shed. The higher front side is 7’ and the back side measures to 6’. These roof styles are great for flower boxes hanging out the window and make for a grand statement for your landscaping. 

The Quaker shed can be upgraded to include transom windows which are windows that are on the doors. They come in a variety of styles and are used to let in more light into your shed. This is a great choice if you’re using your shed to store plants or are using the shed as a creative art studio.

Customize Your New Shed

Ready to revamp your outdoor space? Reach out to our team today!

Request a Quote
an a-frame shed with a small garden surrounding it.

As you’re driving down the back roads, you may notice taller barns and sheds have weathervanes sitting on top of them. Now more than ever, we see them as decorative pieces. But throughout history and even today, they can be a useful tool for determining the weather and wind patterns. 

Continue reading to get an in-depth look into weathervane history. You might even be surprised by some of the new information!

Skip Ahead:

Where Does the Word Weathervane Originate?

The weathervane definition is “a revolving pointer to show the direction of the wind, typically mounted on top of a building”. To dive deeper into the word, the second half “vane” comes from the Old English word “fana” which translates to flag or banner. This has since inspired flags to be a common weathervane ornament. 

Let’s Start From the Beginning: Where Did Weathervanes Come From?

In order to start at the beginning, our weathervane history timeline begins around 48 B.C. Andronicus was a Greek astronomer who created the first weathervane. The original design was a bronze structure to look like the Greek God Triton, the ruler of the sea. 

The first weathervane was believed to be up to 8 feet long and sat on top of an 8-sided building, the Tower of the Winds, which represented the 8 Greek winds. In ancient history, the winds were known to have divine power so weathervanes became an integral part of society’s life. 

Throughout history, societies have used wind vanes and weathervanes to decorate the top of their temples and churches, which usually depicted their gods. As we said, the gods were known to control the winds and societies wanted to make sure they were honoring them to ensure they have favorable weather. 

Other ways weathervanes were used were for navigating the seas. Viking ships used them not only as a status symbol but also to help them find their way. Even today, Norwegian and Swedish ships still use weathervanes to direct their travels.

What Does a Weathervane Do?

Even with the evolution of the methodology of the weathervane, the purpose has stayed the same. A weathervane helps you grasp a better understanding of weather patterns and when incoming storms are rolling in. 

Beyond your own use, a weathervane may be used more often than you think. Weather stations use them to help predict storms, as well as use them as indicators for when there’s a higher chance of wildfires. 

And as we said before, sailers and ships still regularly use weathervanes to understand ocean currents and as a navigational tool. 

Now, you’re likely not traveling the seas or predicting the weather for a news station. So, what does a weathervane do for you? 

Farmers can use weathervanes to get insight into the weather and know how to plant their crops for the best harvest possible. If you own a horse barn, knowing when a storm is coming can help you prepare your horses and your barn appropriately. 

As weathervanes have served this purpose for hundreds of years, they have started to shift into a more decorative purpose as well. We’ll discuss this later in the blog, but some people decide to decorate their roofs with a weathervane. You can customize the design to represent a specific animal or a prime feature of your property.

a silhouette of a weathervane decorated with an arrow and a horse.

Common Weathervane Types

Penn Dutch Structures specializes in classic weathervanes and ours come with a variety of ornaments and sizes. But there are other types of weathervanes that are used in a lot of different places.

  • Classic Weathervane. This is the most common weathervane type and has been used for centuries. You will find these on top of buildings and they can be used not only as functional pieces but also as decorative ones. 
  • Wind Sock. A wind sock usually won’t tell you what direction of the wind in terms of North, East, South, or West but some wind socks will tell you the speed of the wind. These are typically placed on runways or near helipads. 
  • Digital Weathervane. Another type of common weathervane is a digital one, which is typically used for weather forecasting and stations. This is the most advanced version of a weathervane.

Parts of a Weathervane

When you first see a weathervane, there are a lot of little components that work together to make the tool useful. How do they work together? In this section, we’ll outline each component below. 

  • Ornament. This large piece of the weathervane is decorative and can represent something specific to your home or barn.
  • Arrow. Attached to the ornament will be an arrow, both the ornament and the arrow will move according to the direction of the wind. 
  • Directions. Your weathervane will have North, South, East, and West on it and these will be fixed on your weathervane rod. 
  • Globe. There will also be a small globe on the rod, that sits just below the directions. This is just a decorative piece and isn’t used to determine the direction of the wind. 

How to Read a Weathervane

Now that all the components of a weathervane are outlined, we’ll highlight how they all work together so you can better understand how to read a weathervane. 

The ornament and arrow will be connected to each other and will sit just above the directional points. They point towards a specific directional point which indicates where the wind is coming from. For example, if the arrow is aligned with the “S” it means there is a south wind, and the wind is coming from the south and moving north.

a weathervane sitting on top of a cupola that is pointing southwest.

Where to Put a Weathervane

Weathervanes should be placed on the tallest building you own, so you can receive the most accurate information about where the wind is coming from. Typically, a weathervane is accompanied by a decorative cupola which helps increase its height. 

At Penn Dutch Structures, we have multiple sizes of weathervanes that can be placed on a variety of buildings. From larger buildings to garages, sheds, and gardens, you’ll be able to find a weathervane for you.

Reasons to Have a Weathervane

Now that you’ve learned a lot about weathervane history, it might be time to get one of your own! Below, we’ll list out a few reasons you may decide to buy a weathervane for your property.

  • Understand Weather Patterns. As we’ve stated earlier in the blog, incorporating a weathervane into your roof design can help you have a better understanding of when an upcoming storm is approaching. Ultimately, they can help you better prepare your property and any animals you have so the negative effects of the storm are less severe. 
  • Add a Personal Touch. With a ton of different design options, you can have a weathervane that represents your home or your property. Choose between farm animals, birds, decorative arrows, or human figures. 
  • Boost Curb Appeal. Any additions to your landscaping are known to boost your home’s curb appeal. Even if you are just looking for a decorative weathervane, it will help you have a more put-together exterior. And ultimately, this will increase your home’s value in the long run.

With a New Depth of Weathervane History Knowledge

Browse Penn Dutch Structures’ weathervane collection to find one for your own property!

View Our Copper Weathervanes
horse with arrow copper weathervane
Horse with Arrows Copper Weathervane

As we’re getting ready for more outdoor hangouts and lounges by the pool, it’s time to design your patio into a welcoming space. You’ve probably spent some time laying out different rooms inside your house but maybe haven’t given much thought to your patio or deck. 

As you begin to think about how to decorate your patio, consider the shape, size, surfaces, and furniture materials. After reading this blog, you’ll become inspired to start decorating your own space!

Skip Ahead:

Decorating for Your Patio Shape

Before we get into the best patio accessories, it’s important to look at your space as a whole. Generally, there are three different common patio shapes, the shape of your patio helps you decide what furniture will look best.

  • Rectangular. A rectangular patio allows you to use more of the space in comparison to other patio shapes. 
  • Circular. Typically a smaller patio or circular patios often have a centerpiece of some kind, for example, a fire pit or dining table. 
  • Free-Form. An irregular patio shape forms more naturally with your landscaping and can be unique to your home. A free-form shape can be easily adapted to fit your design aesthetics and needs. 

As you begin decorating your patio, think about the shape of your patio and the shape of the furniture you want. Your patio design should create harmonious lines with differing shapes.

Determine Your Patio’s Purpose

What will you be doing on your patio? 

Considering how you will use your patio helps you identify key accessories you need to include. For example, if you’re planning to have cookouts and dinners on your outdoor kitchen patio, you’ll need to incorporate appliances and a table into your design. 

If your patio is going to be used for you and your guests to lay around a pool or suntan all day, consider lounge-style chairs and maybe a shaded area to escape the sun every once in a while. If your patio doesn’t have natural shading with trees, you can include patio curtains attached to a pergola. 

No matter the purpose of your patio, it’s important to keep in mind key interior design elements that can naturally flow into your outdoor space. This ultimately creates a cohesive look throughout your entire home.

A pergola with an outdoor kitchen underneath and a pool on the side.

 

Decorating With Your Patio Surface In Mind

In order to support your cohesive look, you should look at all the elements of your patio, including the surface material. The spectrum of patio surfaces ranges from foundational and simple to more decorative. 

Depending on your style, you may want to put more decorative elements on your patio and keep the surface more simple. Or, have a busier patio surface with designs and accent that with simple furniture. Balancing the two allows you to create a calming and aesthetically pleasing space rather than feeling busy and overwhelmed.

Vinyl or Wood Furniture, or A Mix of Both?

While keeping your style and patio surface in mind, your larger furniture pieces will likely be vinyl or wood, or a mix of both. Smaller furniture can be a wide variety of materials, and it’s best to mix and match to create a balanced look. 

Wood Furniture. This type of furniture creates a natural and outdoorsy look for your patio. This material is very versatile and sustainable. With wood furniture, you can stain or paint it whatever color you want so you’re perfectly matching the rest of your outdoor patio decorations. 

Vinyl Furniture. Although a less natural look, vinyl is virtually maintenance-free which makes it an attractive material to homeowners. These pieces of furniture are also resistant to weather elements and can withstand the test of time. 

Additionally, there are a variety of colors to choose from to match the rest of your patio, but you can only paint your vinyl furniture once whereas a wood furniture piece can be repainted whenever your style changes.

How to Decorate a Patio Based On Size

The size of your patio will also play a role in your outdoor patio decorations. You want to make sure you’re filling your space for a purpose and getting decorations that don’t make your patio feel or look too crowded. 

Below, we’ll highlight some features to consider when decorating for a smaller versus larger patio.

A smaller patio with three chairs and a fireplace in between them.

Small Patio Decorations

If you have a smaller patio and limited space, the best patio accessories will be aesthetically pleasing and functional. So a majority of the furniture you pick out should also serve a purpose. This maximizes the space and ensures you and your guests aren’t feeling overwhelmed or crowded with unnecessary furniture. 

Here’s our list of some must-haves for your small patio decorations. 

  • Outdoor rug. Better define your space and keep it cozy with an outdoor rug. There are a wide variety of shapes, patterns, and materials of rugs you can choose from to match the rest of your space. 
  • Light Colored Furniture. White or neutral colors will help your patio feel larger and more open. This can also be done with white walls or a fence surrounding your patio if that’s applicable. 
  • Firepit. Create a focal point and intentional gathering space with a small firepit on your patio. By adding a firepit, you can also use the space longer and in colder weather while creating a sense of ambiance for you and your guests.  
  • Folding Chairs. With especially smaller spaces, folding chairs can be a temporary solution for larger gatherings without being permanent fixtures. Penn Dutch Structures Country Garden Poly Furniture offers a wide variety of outdoor seating, including folding chairs. 
  • Large Plants. Maintain a sense of privacy with large plants surrounding your patio. Taller plants like Cherry Laurels, can be naturally beautiful and shield your patio space. 

In a smaller, more secluded space, privacy can be an important factor. Plants, panels, and fencing can all be used to make your patio more intimate.

Large Patio Decorations

Sometimes, having a larger area can be daunting if you’re not sure how to effectively use it and design a welcoming space. Below, we’ll list out some of our best patio accessories that can help you fill the space without it being crowded. 

  • Pergola or Pavilion. If your patio is larger, you can stay outside longer and be shaded from intense sunlight with a pergola or a pavilion. Also, it can define your patio space and create a structural design. 
  • Dining Table. There are a few pieces of furniture that can act as your patio’s focal point. A dining room table can bring people together and be a functional piece for your patio. Later in this blog, we’ll give some examples of how to decorate your patio table. 
  • Large Plants. Incorporating greenery into your patio helps it feel welcoming and cohesive with the rest of your landscaping. Depending on your style, there are a variety of plants to include in your patio design. 
A close-up of a patio table set with a floral centerpiece and pillows on the benches.

How to Decorate Your Patio Table

No matter the size of your patio, you will likely have some sort of table in your space. We’re here to give some insight into the best patio accessories for your table. 

Your table decorations may change based on the season or if there’s a special holiday or event you’re celebrating. But you should have a standard design that stays out for the majority of the season. 

There are a few decorations you can add to the top of your table to bring out a bit of personality and elegance. As you begin decorating, remember to keep in mind what you’ll be using the table for. Is it more of a decorative piece, or will you be using it as a functional table to eat outside? 

  • Umbrella. If you don’t have a shaded pergola or patio curtains above your patio, you can put an umbrella on your dining table to keep the area shaded. This can make the area more intimate and allow you and your guests to stay out of the sun during the day. 
  • Centerpiece. Just like having a focal point in your entire patio design, you can also have centerpieces, or a focal point, on your table. Centerpieces could include candles, a floral arrangement, or small light fixtures. 
  • Placemats. If your table is a functioning dining table, finding a set of placemats that match your decorations is essential. As you are searching through different styles, find ones that match your interior home’s aesthetic and are versatile for any occasion. 
  • Outdoor Lighting. Whether you’re using lighting as a centerpiece or incorporating it around your table, it’s one of the best patio accessories. Choose between lanterns, spotlights, string lights, step lights, or even small lamp posts for your space. 

Whether you’re decorating a small, circular patio or a large rectangular space, it should represent your home’s style and design. Create a similar aesthetic and welcoming space for you and your guests whether they’re inside or outside your home. And don’t forget to add your own personal touches!

Want More Ideas on How to Decorate Your Patio?

Browse Penn Dutch Structures’ backyard entertainment products for more inspiration.

View Our Backyard Entertainment Structures
A free-form patio with a pergola on top and a table set underneath.
Pine Santa Fe Pergola

Whether you are a hobby farmer with one or two horses or you’re running an equestrian property, buying a horse barn is essential. There is a lot of thought that goes into choosing a horse barn – everything from the perfect size and style for your horses to which materials to choose, and where to place the barn on your property. 

After reading our buying guide on horse barn styles, you’ll have the helpful information you need to make the right purchase for you and your horses.

Skip Ahead:

Step #1. Determine Your Horse Barn Size

The first question you’ll need to ask yourself is how big should your barn be. Your horse barn dimensions will come down to the number of horses you own and how many horse stalls you require. 

The average size of a horse is 15.2 hands, and any horse around this size should be in a stall at least 100 sq. ft. in size. The stall will need to be big enough so that your horse can stand up, turn around, and lie down. 

Use the guidelines below to help you determine what size horse barn you should buy: 

  • Average-sized horses (15 hands) do well in a 10’ by 12’ stall.
  • Taller breeds (16 hands) should be in a 12’ by 12’ stall. 
  • Miniature horses or ponies (12 – 14 hands) are comfortable in an 8’ by 10’ stall. 

For a run-in horse barn, without individual stalls, a 12’ by 18’ or 12’ by 24’ barn is usually appropriate for three average-sized horses. 

When designing your barn, it is recommended to add two extra stalls and a little more space than you need, if your budget allows. This prepares you for potential growth if you ever need to board more horses in the future.

Step #2. Find the Right Place for Your Horse Barn

Where you plan to place the barn on your property is an important decision that should be determined before making a purchase. Consider the following as you’re looking for the ideal location: 

  • Choose an area of your property that drains properly. In heavy rain or snow, you don’t want your barn area to turn into a swamp of stagnant water. 
  • The area should have easy access to utilities. Since your horse barn may require electric or water hook-ups, you can save on your horse barn costs by choosing a location where these utilities already run through your property. 
  • Place your barn closer to the road or driveways. A barn that is easily accessible from your driveway will make loading your horses into trailers a much simpler task. 
  • Position your horse barn for adequate airflow. Find the direction of the prevailing wind on your property and then set your barn at a 45-degree angle from the wind. This allows for natural ventilation without creating a wind tunnel inside your barn. 
  • Provide natural shade. Although many horse barn styles come with lean-to overhangs that can protect your horses from the elements, natural shade is also beneficial for keeping your animals comfortable. 
  • Choose an area large enough for expansion. Your team of horses may be small now, but it could grow over time. It’s wise to choose a location for your barn that has empty space around it to allow for any potential building expansion. 

Preparing for Installation

Eventually, this area will need to be prepped for installation. This process is slightly more significant than prepping for a new shed or small barn, so we’ve outlined a few crucial steps below. 

For our Modular and Lean-To barns, we recommend level concrete footers that help prevent the building from shifting unevenly when the ground goes through the cycle of freezing and thawing. Over time, these cycles will cause the ground level to change. 

Penn Dutch Structures will provide a footer placement diagram for your specific horse barn dimensions that provides exact measurements and placements. Once installation is complete, the surrounding area can be backfilled with crushed stone or filled in with concrete. 

You’ll also want to anchor your horse barn by using a ¼” steel hurricane bracket. This bracket should be bolted to the concrete footer and to the 6 by 6 that makes up the base of your barn. This anchor system will be included with your Penn Dutch Structure barn order. 

Since we don’t offer site preparation, we frequently partner with BedRock SiteWorks who can help you with all your installation needs. This can make the process more efficient and cause less of a headache for you.

A large wooden horse barn with a red metal roof and double sliding doors.

Step #3. Choose Your Horse Barn Style

Once you have a better understanding of how to choose your horse barn size and location, it’s time to sift through the various styles that you can choose from. The style you choose should also depend on any other ways you plan to utilize your barn and the purpose of your space. 

Below is a rundown of the benefits of each barn style. 

  • Lean-To – Lean-to barns are recognized by their large front overhang. These barns provide shelter during excessive heat and inclement weather in unprotected pastures. 
  • Monitor – Monitor barns are two-story barns that are designed to be very long and feature a distinct raised center. This raised area houses a second-story loft space. 
  • Kennebec – Kennebec barns are also known as double-wide barns. They are center-aisle barns that feature two rows of stalls on opposite walls, separated by an enclosed center aisle. 
  • High Country – High Country barns utilize a two-story design and feature a single-sided sloped roof. The second story includes a loft door which makes it easier to load hay. 
  • Run-In – Run-in barns are covered structures where animals can find shade and relief from heat, rain, and even flies or pests. They feature a three-sided design with an open front. 
  • Shed Row – Shed row barns offer space to house your horses and store other farm tools, equipment, or vehicles. In-line shed rows provide three horse stalls that open to the outside, with an enclosed shed space for storage. L-shape shed rows also include a tack room off to the side. 

Two-story, raised lofts, and double-wide barns create a more versatile space and can be used as more than a home for your horses. Or you can choose something small and simple, like a stable barn, that is more budget-friendly and still durable and secure for your horses. 

Step #4: Deciding Between a Wood or Metal Horse Barn

Wood and metal are both popular materials used in the construction of horse barns. Penn Dutch Structures sells wood horse barns that are constructed using white pine wood. 

White pine is soft and easy to work with but, at the same time, has the strength necessary for framing construction. Pine timber can also be treated to be decay- and rot-resistant. Plus, pine is durable to withstand the wear and tear that is often necessary for outdoor structures. 

When compared to horse barns constructed of steel, there are several benefits to buying a wood horse barn. 

  • Wood is a natural insulator that allows for consistently comfortable temperatures inside your barn in the extremes of winter and summer. 
  • Wood has absorption properties that minimize outside noises. This can be especially beneficial in reducing the noise of high winds and thunderstorms, which can rattle animals. 
  • Softer woods, like pine, can withstand horse kicks without the potential of injury to the horse. On the other hand, metal may puncture upon the impact of the kick which could cut your horse or cause a limb to break.

Benefits of Having a Metal Roof

Although the benefits of having a wood barn outweigh the disadvantages, there are several reasons to choose a metal roof for your horse barn style. 

A metal roof can be more durable against strong weather conditions and won’t rot over time like a shingle roof might. This not only keeps your horses safe when a storm hits but also saves you money down the road with fewer repairs. 

Penn Dutch Structures provides multiple different colors for your metal roof so you can create a cohesive look for your property.

Step #5. Choose Horse Barn Accessories

feed storage and tack storage cabinets

In addition to your horse barn stalls, there are other necessities and amenities that you may want to include in your barn. 

  • Feed Storage – In many cases, you can have 2- or 3- compartment feed storage chests built into your barn design. 
  • Tack Storage – Your tack items should have a dedicated space, away from feed storage. Saddle and harness cabinets can also be constructed right into the design of your barn. 
  • Wash Room – Consider dedicating a single horse stall as a washroom. Design this stall to include concrete floors, rubber mats, drains, and an overhead sprayer. 
  • Barn Fan – During Summer months, your horse barn can get stuffy and overheated easily. To combat this, incorporate barn fans to keep air flowing through the space. 
  • Barn Lighting – In order to work in your horse barn anytime you want, you can add barn lighting to the space. Lighting features will also keep your horses more comfortable and content.

Step #6. Determine Your Budget

Horse barn costs will ultimately depend on the style and size you need. This being said, it can be hard to give an accurate general estimate. Smaller, run-in barns can start around $2,500 while a larger, two-story Monitor barn could start at around $30,000. 

A few ways you can save when buying a horse barn include: 

  • Choose a modular design – Modular barns are built off-site, in sections, and then delivered and assembled on your property. Because of the efficiency of that process, the horse barn costs are lower for you. 
  • Consider a one-story barn – A second story will add material and labor costs. Shed row barns and lean-to barns are great one-story options to explore. 
  • Limit the number of horse stalls – Although you want to plan for future expansion, you should also be realistic and only include the number of stalls you’re certain you will use. 

Now that you have a better understanding of the different horse barn styles and finding your best option, you can be more confident about your purchasing decision moving forward. Once your horse barn is built or installed, it’s essential to take the necessary steps to get your horses comfortable in the new space.

Have Specific Questions About Your New Horse Barn?

The Penn Dutch Structures team can give you specific answers to your questions like what size is best for you and a customized quote.

Contact Us Today
Wooden Red Shed Row Two Stall Horse Barn
Two Stall Horse Barn

This blog was originally published on March 25th, 2019, and was updated on February 28th, 2023.

It’s almost time for backyard hangs, dinners on the grill, and growing your garden. As we approach the warmer Spring months, it’s time to make sure your backyard is ready. Part of this cleanup is your outdoor shed. 

We’ve created our yearly shed maintenance checklist to help you feel more prepared for the warmer months ahead. After this blog, you’ll have a better idea of what needs to be done and how you can maintain your shed care throughout the entire year. 

Skip Ahead:

Interior Shed Maintenance Checklist

The first step of our shed maintenance checklist is to prepare the interior for the upcoming Spring season. This includes cleaning it out, taking note of your shed’s inventory, and making the space an unwanted home to critters and pests. 

#1 Clear Out and Organize

It’s likely that during the colder months, you haven’t used your outdoor storage shed much. Now that you are starting to prepare for the warmer weather, it’s a great time to take inventory and clear out unused equipment and tools in your shed. 

Start by clearing out everything from your shed. Then you’ll have the opportunity to clean the shed floors. A majority of Penn Dutch Structures’ shed floors are plywood, so it’s important to not put too much moisture on the floor as that will cause the wood to rot. 

If there’s minimal debris and leaves on your shed floor, you can simply use a broom to sweep everything outside. If the shed floors are especially muddy, you can combine a small amount of water with white vinegar and coconut oil to mop the floors. 

In order to maintain this cleanliness throughout the entire Spring and Summer season, clean your shed floors regularly. This will also be a useful shed care tip to remember during tip #2 on our checklist. 

With everything still out of your shed, it is an ideal time to reorganize the space. By using shelves, cork boards, and storage racks, you can keep your shed decluttered throughout the year. Having organization tools set up within your shed maximizes the space. 

Organize your things in a way that makes sense to you. Maybe it’s by how often you use certain tools, or you categorize your items so all your gardening tools are together and all your hardware tools are in one place.

#2 Make Sure No Pests Have Settled Into Your Shed

Anything between spiders, insects, and small rodents can make your shed their home. Especially if your shed has been left completely unattended during colder months, critters may have needed a warm spot to stay. 

Listed below are some shed care tips and tricks to make your shed less welcoming to pests. 

  • Clean your shed floors weekly so dirt doesn’t build up. 
  • Don’t store any food, including birdseed in your shed. 
  • Improve the lighting in your shed to help reduce the number of dark corners, where bugs and rodents can easily hide. 

Depending on what type of shed you have, vinyl or wooden, it will be more susceptible to insects. So be prepared to have more maintenance done with a wooden shed compared to a vinyl shed.

#3 Inspect Your Windows and Doors

Although this next step is under the interior shed maintenance section, your windows and doors should be cleaned on the outside as well. The same shed window care tips apply. You can clean the windows with your regular window cleaner. 

You will also want to inspect the window panes and door frames for any leakage to ensure that there isn’t any water damage. Generally, the cause of leaking windows is old caulk or seals. Over time, you may notice that the caulk is dried out and cracking. The solution to leaking windows is to replace the caulk or seal.

One side of a wooden shed with lots of gardening materials, boots, buckets, and wooden crates.

#4 Regularly Clean Tools Going In and Out of Your Shed

This next shed upkeep step is to ensure that the transition from each session will be easier moving forward because you’ll regularly clean tools and equipment going in and out of the space. 

Anytime you use a gardening tool or a piece of equipment, clean it off before storing it back in your shed. This will not only help you keep dirt out of the interior but also help keep the space pest-free. 

If you have metal tools, you should keep a bucket of damp sand within your shed to quickly clean the tools after you’re done using them.

Exterior Shed Maintenance Checklist

Now that your interior is ready, it’s time to focus on the outside of your shed. This will be what people see first when they visit, so you’ll want to do some touchups to prepare for the Spring season.

#1 Check Your Shed’s Security

As part of our shed maintenance checklist, we recommend updating your shed lock. Your shed holds valuable inventory for your home, so it’s essential that it is well secured. There are different types of shed locks, what you choose will depend on what level of security you need for your shed.

#2 Clean the Exterior

If you purchased from Penn Dutch Structures, your shed is either wooden or vinyl, so the way you clean the exterior may slightly differ. 

Wooden Sheds. The best tool to use on the exterior of your wooden shed is a power washer. Just like when you’re cleaning your shed floors, make sure your power washer is on a lighter setting that won’t damage the wood siding. 

Vinyl Sheds. Vinyl sheds don’t need as much maintenance as their wood counterparts, but sometimes they may need a good cleaning. A mixture of water and vinegar will suffice to clean your exterior. 

By cleaning the outside of your shed, you can help get dirt and debris off and keep your shed looking brand new.

#3 Repaint

A fresh coat of paint can either be more of a shed upkeep task that just covers any chips or cracks, or you can take the time to repaint the entire exterior to give the shed a completely new look. If your shed is closer to your home, you may want to paint it to match the rest of your exterior. Or you could decide to add a pop of color to your landscaping through your shed’s color.

#4 Check the Roof/Shingles

Especially if you live in an area with heavy snow or strong weather conditions, your roof might need some updates from the winter months. Generally, there are three different types of shed roofs. 

Metal roofs are able to withstand extreme weather conditions, so it’s likely you’ll just need to clean it off to prepare for the Spring season. 

Architectural shingles are the thicker option of the two types of shingles, so they can withstand strong winds with a sturdier and stronger adhesive. 

3-tab shingles are the most cost-effective option but are known to buckle and blow away. If you have 3-tab shingles, make it a priority to check your roof regularly for any damage.

Around Your Shed: Landscaping Checklist

Now that you have the steps to clean your interior and exterior, it’s time to make sure your landscaping matches! As you prepare for the warmer weather, clean up your garden and bushes. This will not only help your yard look great, but can help maintain your shed’s cleanliness. 

There are a few shed care tips that can help your backyard look great and keep your shed clean. 

  1. Trim low-hanging branches to avoid leaves building up on your shed’s roof. 
  2. Use rocks or mulch up against the shed rather than soil. This helps the water go through the garden rather than build up and create moisture damage against your shed. 
  3. Don’t stack firewood against your shed. When you stack firewood against your shed, it causes algae and mold to grow. 

Surrounding your shed, you may decide to have a garden or an entertainment outdoor structure. This brings your entire landscaping together and creates a beautiful space for the Spring and Summer seasons. 

Ready to Take Your Landscaping a Step Further?

Browse our large sheds and other backyard structures

Browse Our Large Sheds
Garden A-Frame shed with a small garden surrounding it
Garden A-Frame

It’s a breezy autumn night and you’re finally settled in at home. It’s a cozy feeling and you can’t believe you get to call this place your home. Sounds like a dream, right? There are a lot of appealing features of log cabins that make them either a perfect forever home or your ideal vacation getaway. 

After reading this blog, you’ll know some of log cabin homes’ pros and cons, and different log cabin home design features that are completely customizable to exceed your expectations and needs.

Skip Ahead:

Advantages of Log Homes

You’ll find that there are many benefits of log cabin homes. These benefits will help your wallet, the environment, and your over-well being. Below, we’ll go in-depth on some advantages so you can start to picture yourself in a log cabin.

#1 Your Log Cabin is Long-Lasting and Environmentally Friendly

The construction process of a log cabin makes it a better choice for you and the environment. Since trees are a renewable resource, the building process is more sustainable compared to other conventional construction methods. 

The durability and stability of log cabins also mean they can last you much longer than your lifetime. Additionally, a benefit to log cabin homes is that they withstand intense weather conditions, including hurricanes and strong winds. 

With other homes, you need a variety of materials to complete the construction process. With a log cabin, your main building material is wood, so not only is this a more environmentally friendly option but it will also save you time and money. 

Interlocking logs mean your cabin is waterproof and your roof will be sturdy enough to withstand heavy snow and ice. Additionally, when you purchase a log cabin from Penn Dutch Structures, you’ll receive a five-year warranty on a structure that is built to meet regulations and standards.

#2 Your Log Cabin Will Be Quiet and Peaceful 

If your current home resides in a bustling neighborhood or city, it can be frustrating and distracting to hear cars driving by, neighbors in their homes, or other outside noises. Investing in a peaceful and quiet second home can help you destress and get away from your busy life. 

A benefit of log cabin homes is the wood materials create a sense of comfort and warmth as well as dampen the sound outside. With significant noise reduction, you will find fewer distractions from the outside world.

#3 Your Log Cabin Can Be An Ideal Getaway Home

Maybe you’re not looking to permanently move into a log cabin, but the benefits of owning a second home are significant. 

Let’s begin with how a second home can benefit you and your family. For starters, you’ll always have a place to get away and you won’t have to worry about paying to stay there. An additional home is ideal for weekend getaways or shorter, last-minute stays when you need a quick trip. 

If your family and friends frequently go somewhere to fish and hunt, investing in a log cabin can make these trips easier and more enjoyable. Pairing a new log cabin with a hunting blind optimizes your hunting experience. 

Not only will you be able to use the log cabin whenever you want, but if you’re not using it you can rent it out to others. Listing your cabin as a vacation rental can bring in additional income for you. We’ll go into more detail about vacation rentals in our next step.

#4 Your Log Cabin is a Great Return on Investment

As stated earlier, your log cabin is long-lasting and durable so you can use it for more than a lifetime’s worth of memories. 

Additionally, a vacation rental can be a great investment for you to have a second income. If you’re deciding to go that route, it’s important to have an intense cleaning system, and a solidified team to help you maintain the property

As a rental property, you will need to be prepared to answer questions and requests of your guests. The decision to rent out your log cabin should be given serious consideration so you can feel well prepared for maintaining and improving the guest experience.

The interior of a log cabin home with two sofas, a small tv, and a coffee table.

Disadvantages of Log Homes

Like anything else, you’re going to come across some disadvantages and cons. Log cabins are no different. Below, we’ll outline some problems with log cabin homes.

#1. Without Care, Your Log Cabin Can Deteriorate

As with any home, without care and maintenance, you’ll deteriorate the value of your log cabin. Specifically, log cabin exteriors need to be washed and inspected for pests and critters. It’s likely that your cabin will need to be resealed and caulked every 3 to 4 years in order to maintain high quality. 

You should also check for mold and mildew and then remove them if necessary. With the main building material being wood, log cabins may experience moisture issues if not treated properly. One way to combat this is to plant gardens away from the siding of your home and build topsoil around the foundation of your home in order to help drain excess water. 

Intense sunlight can cause discoloration and cracking on your log cabin. This is why it is essential to repaint the exterior finish of your log cabin. This will not only help brighten and revive the color but will also be proactive against mildew, mold, and rot.

We’ve created a log cabin maintenance checklist if you want to see what we recommend doing to make sure you get the most out of your investment.

#2 Your Insurance Costs May Increase

Depending on whether your log cabin is your permanent home or a vacation home, you will need to make sure that you can cover the structure under your insurance. Secondary homes are typically more costly on your insurance policy. 

A disadvantage to log homes is that they can be even more costly because of the building materials used. Other effects include how often your log cabin is unoccupied during the year. An empty home is more likely to be broken into, so your insurance policy will increase. 

Finally, the location of your log cabin will affect your homeowner’s insurance. If you are located in either a remote location or somewhere that is more susceptible to harsh weather storms, you’re likely to see an increase in insurance costs.

Choosing Your Log Cabin Home Design

Log cabin home pros and cons should be taken into careful consideration before deciding to invest in a log home. However, if you decide that you want to take the next step, it’s time to build your log cabin floor plan.

Questions to ask as you create your log cabin home design. 

  1. How much time will you spend at the home? Will this be your forever home or a vacation getaway? 
  2. What’s the maximum number of people that will stay at your cabin the majority of the time?
  3. What are your must-haves for design features and floor plans?
The interior of a log cabin home design that highlights the kitchen area, with an island and dining table.

Interior Features to Consider

A notable benefit to a Penn Dutch Structure log cabin is that many features are customizable and catered to your specific needs. Below are some interior features to consider in your log cabin home design.

  • Interior Finish. You may either decide that the entire interior will be wood, or you can mix in different finishes such as marble, hardwood, tile, or vinyl. 
  • Kitchen. When designing your kitchen, think about whether or not you’ll need lots of storage space and how much surface space you’ll need to cook. This will help you decide how many cabinets to incorporate and if you’re interested in putting an island in. 
  • Countertops. A Penn Dutch Structures log cabin can be customized with marble, quartz, or solid or laminated countertops. 
  • Windows. Depending on the location of your log cabin, you may want large windows overlooking a lake or big forest. Our Mountaineer Deluxe cabin highlights the vista glass view. 
  • Number of Rooms. Your log cabin floor plan will highlight the number of rooms you have. This should be decided based on how many people will consistently be residing in your cabin, or if you believe you’ll frequently have guests stay the night.

Exterior Features to Consider

Similar to the interior of your log home, you’ll have customizable options for your exterior. Below, we’ll go through some of the main decisions you’ll have to make to complete your log cabin home design.

  • Shingles and Doors. At Penn Dutch Structures, you can choose from multiple colors of shingles and doors to compliment your log home. 
  • Roof. We offer a steel roof in a variety of colors such as black, brown, burgundy, and green. You may also decide to add a permanent roof decoration to further enhance your home and boost curb appeal.  
  • Porch. One unique benefit of log cabin homes is they may overlook a beautiful lake or scenic forest. If that’s the case, including some sort of porch or deck would be beneficial. A porch swing would also be a great addition to drinking your morning coffee or catching up with friends. 
The outside of a log home with a small porch and attached garage.

Whatever features you decide to include in your log cabin floor plan, it should be a place that helps you relax and keeps you cozy. At Penn Dutch Structures, we’re here to bring your vision to life.

After choosing a design for your log cabin, we suggest reading our blog post addressing frequently asked questions about log cabins.

Your Warm and Homey Log Cabin Design is Waiting For You

Browse our Selection
Exterior of the Frontier log cabin home
The Frontier Log Cabin Home

© 2016 - 2024 Penn Dutch Structures. All rights reserved.