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Conducting regular swing set maintenance at the change of each season, especially before and after winter, is a great way to ensure optimal safety and play. It’s also one of the best ways to make sure your outdoor playset looks great and stays functional for many years to come. 

With spring in full swing and the kids playing outside more, it’s the perfect time to take another look at your swing set and check out any damage from the winter.

If you’re unsure of where to start, here are some helpful tips and tricks for inspecting, cleaning, and maintaining your outdoor swing set or play structure.

Protecting Your Swing Set Over the Winter

Before we dive into swing set maintenance, it’s important to make sure you’re taking care of your swing set even in the months it’s not in use. We recommend removing detachable parts, placing them in storage, and applying a fresh coat of sealant as you begin to approach winter. If you’re finding your garage short on the extra space, we wrote a blog on garage organization tips to help you get started.

You may also consider covering the swing set with a tarp/canopy to protect it during the colder months. This is especially important for a wood swing set, as it deters rot and allows you to restain the wood less frequently.

How to Inspect Your Swing Set

Before your kids start climbing all over the swing set again, conduct a thorough inspection of the entire structure. Pay special attention to the roofing, hinges, bolts, screws, ropes, cables, chains, and anything that could be a potential safety hazard. If you notice loose boards, fraying ropes, or rusting metal, be sure to address this ASAP.

If you put any of the swing set’s accessories in storage over the winter, be sure to inspect them when you go to reattach the parts. If you’re reattaching a slide, swing, or climbing wall, be sure to secure each piece with the appropriate bolts and screws. If you misplaced the bolts or screws from last year, just head out to your local hardware store and they’ll help you out.

How to Fix a Wooden Swing Set

A close up photograph of an electric drill screwing a nail into a wooden plank showcasing the importance of swing set maintenance.

It’s possible your wooden swing set maintenance may require a little more TLC than just a standard reassemble. Here are some of the top repair issues and our solutions for fixing them.

Choosing the type of wood is just as important as fixing them. If you want to learn more abut the best wood for outdoor swing sets, read our guide to playground lumber.

Repair Boards

Loose boards? No problem. Simply locate any loose boards, remove the screws, and place them in a different section of the wood. This redistributes the tension on the wood and can actually help straighten boards and planks that have warped slightly due to time and weather.

Remove Wooden Boards

If the boards are warped or splintered beyond a simple repair, remove them and replace them before allowing your kids to play on the swing set. If replacing wooden boards seems daunting to you, don’t stress about it! 

Locate the boards that need replacing and remove them one at a time with a power drill. From there, grab a quality set of wood screws and start replacing them one at a time.

Reassemble the Playset

Swing set maintenance may sound like a lot of work. But the more consistently you maintain your structure (about once a season), the less you’ll have to do at any one time. You can try working it into your yard work routine, even doing a quick quality check every time you mow the lawn or maintain the garden.

How to Clean a Wood Playset

A photograph of a pressure washer spraying wooden siding.

After you’ve fixed any loose boards and reassembled your structure, the next step of swing set maintenance is cleaning. But before you tire of spring cleaning overload, we’ve assembled some tips below to get the job done quickly (and have a bit of fun doing it).

Power Washing a Swing Set

Power washing a swing set is a great way to remove any hard-to-clean build-up that may have accumulated over the colder months. If you opt for a power washer, just be sure to set the spray-wand to low and start with a PSI of 1300-1700. From there, you can adjust as necessary based on how much dirt your swing set has collected. You should also wear protective glasses to make sure dirt and debris do not get in your eyes.

You can also look for a power washer that has a no splashback hose so you can clean the swing set without getting your clothes all wet (unless it’s a hot day and you’re looking to cool off).

Stain and Seal

After you’ve washed your swing set and removed the dirt and grime, you’ll want to think about playset stain and sealer. Applying fresh stain and sealant at the correct times — after you’ve cleaned it and given it ample time to dry — helps your wooden swing set look as good as new for years to come.

Once you’ve mastered the fundamentals of how to refinish a swing set, you want to make sure you prioritize consistency. We recommend restaining your wooden swing set about every 2-3 years and resealing the wood a little more frequently, about every 1-2 years.

Vinyl Swing Set Maintenance

If talk of the durability and low upkeep of vinyl swing sets piques your interest, you’re not alone. Vinyl swing sets are popular for their low maintenance and longevity. A vinyl swing set consists of vinyl-covered wood and is typically treated to prevent decay and insect damage.

How to Ensure the Safety of a Vinyl Swing Set

The one thing to look out for in a vinyl swing set is the condition of the wood underneath the vinyl, which can prove a little tough when you can’t directly see it. 

To inspect a vinyl swing set, you can test the sturdiness of the boards by carefully and gently placing your body weight across the entire structure. We also recommend applying force across each part of the structure with your hands, attempting to move and shake each section.

If your vinyl swing set passes the sturdiness test, then you should be good to go. Like a wood swing set, a quality vinyl swing set will last you many years without too much upkeep, but it’s always better to be safe than sorry.

A photograph of a red and yellow vinyl swing set in a backyard.

Cleaning a Vinyl Swing Set

Similar to a wood playset, power washing is a great way to remove dirt and grime from a vinyl structure. If the structure is relatively clean (congratulations, you’ve been performing regular swing set maintenance!), a garden hose may suffice.

For tougher to reach places, you may want to opt for a soft-bristled brush, surface cleaner, and a bucket of warm water.

Vinyl Step-By-Step Cleanup

  1. Fill a bucket with warm water.
  2. Mix 1-2 tablespoons of natural surface cleaner/dish liquid. We recommend sticking with a non-toxic, biodegradable dish liquid.
  3. Scrub the entire surface of the playset, applying firm pressure by scrubbing with a circular motion.
  4. Empty and refill the bucket as needed.
  5. Rinse the playset with a garden hose.

How to Keep a Metal Swing Set from Rusting

Rust isn’t just the enemy of metal, it’s also dangerous for your children. Rusty metal swings are dangerous for kids to play on, as the rust corrodes iron and causes it to become thin and brittle. 

If you’re looking to purchase a metal swing set (though wood and vinyl are typically more popular for their longevity), we recommend at least buying a galvanized swing set. A galvanized swing set has a layer of zinc or magnesium that protects the metal from being exposed to water and oxygen.

Another way you can prevent rust on your metal swing set is by painting it. This is essentially like doing your own galvanization process, and a good metal primer can work just as well as purchasing a professionally applied one. Be sure to paint the nuts and bolts as well, as these small parts are just as likely to attract rust as the rest of the swing set.

How Long Do Wooden Playsets Last?

The average wood swing set lasts between 15-20 years, and a vinyl swing set can last anywhere between 25-30 years. The most important factor when looking to make the most of your swing set is purchasing a high-quality swing set and engaging in regular swing set maintenance.

Swing Set Longevity

Taking the necessary steps to preserve your swing set is a vital part of swing set maintenance, and making sure it’s clean is only the beginning. At the end of the day, proper maintenance is about keeping your kids safe and giving them a gift that will help create lasting memories. If you’re consistent with the upkeep, your swing set is likely to last as long as your kids are willing to play on it!

Current Swing Set Beyond Repair?

Our wood and vinyl swings sets are safe, reliable, and built to last in harsh conditions for years.

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Model 702 - 14'x16' Playset with 4'x4' Tower, 5' Deck, 3-Position Single Swing Beam, 10' Waterfall Slide, 2 Swings, and Trapeze
Model 702 – 14’x16′ Playset

When winter is in full swing, it’s easy to forget about your patio. But spring fever is here, and it’s time to trade in those days of comfort food and curling up on the couch streaming your favorite show (again) for warmer weather and outdoor get-togethers.

And while the hibernation was fun, we’re sure you’re just as ready for spring as we are. With this in mind, we’re here to share some helpful tips on preparing your outdoor living space for spring.

Clearing the Space

Before you do anything else, the first thing to focus on is clearing your patio space of any debris that may have built up over the winter months. You can use a broom or rake to easily sweep away debris like sticks and leaves, which you can later use to fuel your fire pit for some springtime gatherings.

Pressure Washer

Another great way to clear your patio space is with a pressure washer. Not only is it fun to use, but it’s a great way to get rid of the build-up that may have made its way on your patio space during those wetter fall and winter months. Most pressure washers have a ‘fan’ setting which is great for general cleaning, as it won’t be too tough on your wooden or vinyl patio. You may even be able to find one with enclosed brushes and a nozzle to avoid splashback.

Checking the Space

Besides cleaning and clearing hard to remove dirt, another benefit of using a power washer is that it exposes any areas on your patio that may have cracks or holes. Cracks are more likely to occur in concrete, but imperfections can appear on wooden and vinyl patios, especially if you live in a harsher climate. 

Even with a high-quality structure that will last you for years, it’s still important to do your due diligence and make sure you’re catching any minor deficiencies before they get out of control. If you find any imperfections that need touching up, you can pick up some mortar at your local hardware store and fix them up in no time!

A picture of a man using a drill on a wooden board.

Loose Boards

If you find some loose boards while preparing your patio space for spring, it’s best to address them and tighten them up before they become a safety hazard. Over time, even the best wooden patio will have boards loosen because of weather and consistent use. An easy way to test your patio for loose boards is by leaning your body weight on each board to feel if it is sturdy or not. To tighten up any loose boards, you’ll need the following supplies:

  • Drill
  • Wood screws
  • Hammer
  • Nails

Once you identify any loose boards, remove the loose screws or nails and drill new holes to replace them. Wood screws or nails both work, but wood screws are likely to hold for longer. If you’re finding some of your boards are warped, you can loosen the screws or nails on the original board and place the screws or nails through a different part of the wood. This places the tension on a different part of the board and can relieve warping issues.

If you’ve found an individual piece of wood to be warped beyond repair, simply replace it with a new piece, and you’ll be good to go.

Cleaning the Space

Once your patio’s foundation is clear and ready for use, you’ll want to focus on cleaning your furniture. It’s time to grab some supplies and roll up your sleeves!

Best Patio Furniture Cleaner

Before you start spraying any home cleaning products on your outdoor patio furniture, you want to think of what cleaning products are best for the type of furniture you have. 

Plastic

Plastic and resin furniture is a popular choice because it’s inexpensive. For plastic furniture, skip the abrasive cleaners and opt for an all-purpose cleaner and a damp cloth or sponge. This should do the trick and will keep your furniture looking as good as new for the coming spring.

Metal

Iron and stainless steel are popular choices for outdoor furniture due to their durability. Another benefit of metal patio furniture is the ease with which it can return to looking brand new. To clean wrought iron and stainless steel, we recommend adding a quarter cup of dish soap to a gallon of water and using a sponge to clean the surfaces.

Quick tip: The enemy of metal is rust. That’s why it’s important to purchase outdoor metal furniture that is rust-resistant. If you detect rust, steel wool helps remove oxidation if you’re considering preparing your metal patio furniture for painting.

Wood & Wicker

Remember what we said about power washing your wood patio? Ignore that information here! Since your wooden furniture is likely to be much less sturdy than the boards making up your patio, we recommend using soap or soapy water with a soft brush or sponge to remove dirt and grime.

Cleaning Mildew off Outdoor Cushions

Cushions and pillows look great but get dirty quickly. More than that, rain and humidity can cause mold and mildew to accumulate on your outdoor furniture. Before you start cleaning mildew off outdoor cushions, first determine what type of cushions you have.

Fabric Cushions: Dilute a ½ cup of bleach into 1 gallon of water, add it to a spray bottle and use it on your cushions. From there, you want to make sure you scrub vigorously. For deeper mildew issues, you may have to repeat this process several times. Once clean, leave the cushions out in the hot sun to dry — the heat will also help kill remaining bacteria.

A word of caution, not all cushions can handle bleach, and it may end up staining or stripping the material. When you can, consult the manufacturer’s directions on cleaning and proceed accordingly.

Acrylic Cushions: These are a bit easier to clean than fabric. Simply mix 1 cup of bleach and 2 cups of detergent into a gallon of water and use a spray bottle. After letting it sit for 30 minutes, you can come back and rinse it with water.

Curating the Space

Okay, you’ve cleared the space, cleaned your furniture, and now you’re wanting to do some spring decorating. And for those of you who want to try your hand at some outdoor design, we’ve got some helpful tips to steer you in the right direction.

Choose Your Colors Wisely

Cohesion is the king of design when preparing your patio space for spring. The main thing you want to focus on is making sure your color choices are aesthetically pleasing, seasonally appropriate, and match with one another. Some popular spring colors include:

Gold and dark tones: Gold or yellow helps add a splash of vibrancy to your outdoor setup and are right in line with warmer weather and longer days. Try pairing these with darker tones like black and grey for an easy combo that isn’t too distracting.

Pastels: It’s tough to think of spring and not think of pastels. To match the Easter egg hunts coming up, blues, pinks, yellows, and greens are an easy-on-the-eyes choice. You can also experiment with adding a bolder color here and there, like bright sky blue pillows or a dark green patio umbrella.

Eggplant and tangerine: For a more sophisticated look, opt for deeper, richer colors and a simplistic design. A popular, modern choice includes colors like dark purple, navy, and white. 

Whatever your preference, it’s a fun idea to match your flowers with your outdoor furniture!

A picture of purple flowers in a garden.

Bring in the Blooms

Speaking of flowers, seasonally appropriate plants and flowers are a must-have when preparing your patio space for spring. Some of our favorites include:

  • Pansies
  • Lilacs
  • Daffodils
  • Crocuses
  • Tulips

Finding yourself quality patio table flower planters is another great way to spruce up the communal area with some of your favorite flowers. We recommend sticking with earth tones and more neutral colors to not distract from the beautiful flowers planted in them.

Painting

If you’re finding the weather to have been exceptionally tough on your patio this year, or you simply want to switch it up a bit, staining or painting your patio is a great idea. You’ll want to make sure you purchase the correct stain or paint to match your patio’s material and follow the appropriate steps before applying the paint or stain (some of which you’ll already have completed if you’ve been following our tips). Before you can apply paint or stain to your patio floor, you first need to make sure you:

  • Remove all dirt and build-up (sand and scrape if needed).
  • Allow the wood, vinyl, or concrete to dry.
  • Replace damaged boards.

Update Your Furniture

If the furniture from the last few years just isn’t cutting it, it may be time to update and upgrade. When preparing your patio space for spring with new furniture, the most important element to remember is to choose materials and brands that are durable and built-to-last. The last thing you want to worry about is your furniture every time a couple of clouds start rolling through your area.

If you want a complete guide on how to further decorate your patio, check out our in-depth blog on patio decoration tips and tricks.

How to String Outdoor Lights on a Patio

A picture of lights strung in a backyard.

Okay, so you’ve cleared your patio space, cleaned it up, added some flowers and new furniture, and it’s looking great! Well, when you can see it. But it’s dark out, and those earth tones are blending right in with the night.

Fear not, because if you’re wondering how to string outdoor lights on a patio, we’ve got you covered. Here are some supplies you might need:

  • Hooks
  • Zip ties
  • Carabiners
  • Extension cords

There are a few different ways you can decide how to hang your patio lights, but a few popular options are:

  • Square or Grid: this involves hanging patio lights in straight lines across the length and width of your space or outlining just the perimeter of your space in a square shape.
  • Zig zag or W: this pattern is good for fully illuminating your space with a more interesting design.
  • The Horizon Point: this is similar to the V but requires at least four locations to attach your lights to. This is typically the design used in professional installations for events and restaurant settings.
  • Tent or Maypole: This setup features multiple light strings anchored in a wheel arrangement from one central point. This one can be tough and may require professional installation.

Your choice of lights depends on personal preference, but typically a bulb-style light works better and looks better for lighting your patio than your typical Christmas lights. That way you continue relaxing in your outdoor space on a comfy seat into the night too!

Want to Spruce Up Your Space Even More?

We have a wide range of lawn furniture, swings, and pergolas. Feel free to contact us with specific questions, and we’ll be happy to help you through preparing for spring!

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A cozy fire pit is lit with comfortable chairs sitting around it on a Fall patio.

Remember when you were dreaming of nothing but adding on a new garage for extra storage? Once you’ve added one, it’s all too easy to find yourself on the other end – knowing you need to declutter your garage, but feel overwhelmed at the prospect. If you’re not sure how to organize a garage or where to begin, we’ve put together these helpful garage organization tips to assist you in finding the motivation to get started.

Garage Organization Planning Tip #1: Start with a Plan

The first step to figuring out how to organize a garage is to create a plan, so you can determine your goals and hold yourself accountable. Otherwise, you’re in danger of procrastination as you start weeding through your possessions.

Make sure your plan includes:

  • Setting aside a day or two you can devote to sorting and organizing
  • Recruiting help from family members or others in your household
  • Listing how you’d like to use the space once it’s clean
  • Planning how you’ll discard unwanted items

When you have a framework in place, you’re much more likely to stay on track and clean up your clutter. If you need to get specific, don’t be afraid to make a granular to-do list to keep yourself accountable. Plenty of studies show that writing down your plans can boost your ability to execute them. 

A cup of coffee sits on top of a napkin with an organization plan jotted on it.

Garage Organization Planning Tip #2: Sort Your Possessions

Once you’ve determined your goals, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and get busy. To declutter your garage, you’ll want to first start by sorting the items currently in it.

Step 1: Clear the Items Out

Begin sorting through your items and keep a running list either mentally or on paper of what you’re finding. You may have an idea, but there may be some surprise items you find hidden in hard-to-reach corners. Move all items out of the garage to an open area or space so you can comb through them thoroughly.

Step 2: Sort Your Items & Take Inventory

Perhaps the easiest way to sort through your items is to use a four pile system. Create four separate areas to place items you plan to keep, donate, sell, or throw away. Then start sorting your items piece by piece until they’re all assigned to a pile. 

Step 3: Make a Plan How to Sell or Donate Items

If you have nice items you’d like to make a profit from, consider setting up your own garage sale. Alternatively, you can try listing your items online through platforms like Craigslist or Facebook Marketplace.

However, if you’d like to clear items out faster, consider donating them instead to a local group nearby. One of the perks of donating items is that it ultimately can benefit others in your immediate community. Plus, it reduces environmental waste. 

Step 4: Properly Dispose of Items

Perhaps you have old household cleaning chemicals or other reactive items you’d like to get rid of. Make sure you follow these EPA guidelines to carefully dispose of any hazardous materials. 

Additionally, review your trash collector’s plan details to determine what items they will or won’t take. If you have large items to throw out, consider taking them to the dump yourself or calling up an independent collector who specializes in removing assorted items.

Garage Organization Planning Tip #3: Clean out Your Garage

Just like routinely cleaning out and maintaining your shed is key to keeping it in good shape, cleaning out your garage ensures it stays like new. When it’s emptied out, you should inspect it to look for any damage or problems.

First, you can deep clean and sweep floors, clean windows, get rid of unwelcome occupants, and add pest control supplies if necessary. While doing this, keep an eye out for signs of serious damage so you can make sure to repair it yourself right away or find a repair professional that can help.

Garage Organization Planning Tip #4: Decide What’s Safe to Store

Now that you have a clean garage, it’s important to make sure the items you plan to put inside it are safe to store. Here are some items we recommend putting elsewhere in your home:

  • Pet food (which can attract rodents)
  • Paint (extreme temperature fluctuations can ruin it)
  • Propane tanks (can be a fire hazard)
  • Canned foods (they can freeze over winter)
  • Paper products (which can attract pests like roaches or bugs)
  • Electronics (they can be damaged from temperatures and moisture)
  • Sentimental items (items like photos or records can be damaged by moisture)

Aside from these items, you’re fine to store plenty of other items in your garage like tools, recreational vehicles, or workout gear.

Box of tools in a wooden tool box sitting in a garage.

Garage Organization Planning Tip #5: Research Garage Organization Ideas

The top key to any successful garage organization is to group like items together and to store items you use more frequently in easy-to-reach spots. Then you can keep seasonal or rarely used items in the harder-to-reach areas since you only need to access them on a limited basis. Apart from that, here are our favorite garage organization ideas to help you clean up your space.

Shelves & Shoe Racks

Vertical shelving is a great place to start when organizing your garage, as it adds some structure to your space. You can certainly install shelves directly mounted onto the wall, but if you’re looking for a quick solution try simply visiting your local hardware store for some stand-alone shelving.

Additionally, if you like keeping outdoor shoes, work boots, or winter boots in your garage, consider adding a shoe rack. You may find it works well for other small items you like to keep close at hand.

Clear, Labeled Bins

Once you have shelves in place, you’re likely thinking about how to store items on them. We recommend investing in clear plastic bins instead since they’re durable against moisture and also have easy visibility in case you forget what’s inside. 

When you’re placing items in the bins, also consider taking time to carefully label them with a small label maker. By doing so, you’re more likely to adhere to your organization system over time.

Hanging Ceiling Storage Solutions

After you pick shelving for the vertical spaces, don’t forget to utilize your ceiling space too! Hanging shelving is a great way to store those seasonal items you don’t need to access frequently. You can find ceiling mount shelving at your hardware store, or you can even follow this simple tutorial to make your own ceiling storage!

You can also try adding a hanging bike pulley system or hooks to your garage ceiling, to keep bikes out of the way. That way you’re not left stumbling over them or having to move them to access other parts of your garage.

Solutions for Odd Shaped Items

Items like power tools may be the hardest to store, considering they often have an odd shape. Don’t let this deter you from finding a solution though! You can find different sized garage hooks and hangers to hang along the walls of your garage, so these items are not in the way. 

Peg Board & Hooks

Items like power tools may be the hardest to store, considering they often have an odd shape. Don’t let this deter you from finding a If you don’t already have one, consider installing a pegboard in your garage for all your assorted tools. It’s a great way to make sure you’re never stuck missing the right one for whatever job you’re working on at the moment. Best of all, you can always reconfigure the board to fit your storage needs as your tool collection grows. 

Bungee Cord Holder

Need to store oddly-shaped equipment like footballs, soccer balls, or round children’s toys? Consider creating your own DIY sports equipment storage area. With a few pieces of lumber and some bungee cords, you can ensure these items are never rolling around and getting in the way while they’re in your garage.

A Locking Cabinet

Need to store oddly-shaped equipment like footballs, soccer balls, or round children’s toys? Creating your own DIY Storing lawn fertilizer or other garden and household items considered toxic or dangerous? Or just items you want to keep out of reach? While you can certainly put them on a shelf, keeping them in a locking garage cabinet may be a safer option if you have young children or pets.

Tool cabinet full of used tools.

Garage Organization Tip #6: Consider Adding Additional Storage

If you find your garage is still too full after getting rid of items and revamping your organization system, consider buying a new shed to increase your outdoor storage space. Or if you’ve continued collecting more equipment or automotive items, adding another garage could be a worthwhile investment to keeping your assets safe.

Garage Still Doesn’t Have Enough Space?

Penn Dutch Structures has a variety of storage options to meet your needs. From sheds to backyard barns, we’ve got your storage needs covered.

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Red and white shed with porch.

As the leaves change color and crisp air arrives, there’s no better place to catch the Fall season than from your patio, after you’ve cleaned up your lawn furniture from the Summer. It’s important to transition your patio from Summer to Fall since you’ll be using it differently now that the days are cooler and daylight is shorter. That’s why we’ve put together some Fall patio ideas for you below, so you can make the most of your outdoor space.

1. Add Fall Planters

Perhaps one of the best ideas for Fall patio decor is to add a beautiful array of Autumn flora. While you might think flowers are just for Spring and Summer, there are a handful of options to choose from for Fall too.

Fall plants that can withstand the cooler temperatures include:

  • Chrysanthemum (mums)
  • Flowering Kale
  • Dianthus
  • Aster
  • Osteospermum (African Daisy)
  • Pansy
  • Petunia
  • Dusty Miller
  • Sweet Alyssum
  • Purple Fountain Grass
  • Creeping Jenny
  • Sedum

You can also add fun fillers to your planters to make them pop, like different sizes and colors of pumpkins. Or if you like a natural, rustic look, keep an eye out for sticks and different sized pine cones you can use to create height and visual interest. Your local craft store also has plenty of fun, Fall-themed artificial fillers from signs to decorative sticks, so it’s worth checking their selection out as well.

A beautiful Fall arrangement of bright yellow mums with orange and white pumpkins and squash placed throughout.

Once you have all your supplies, including a planter container that fits your style, putting together the materials is easy. Just keep in mind that a good arrangement has 3 components:

  1. Thrillers (these are vertical plants that stand tall)
  2. Fillers (these are the horizontal plants that fill the pot)
  3. Spillers (these are plants that spill over the edges)

Once you’re happy with the end result, don’t forget to also care for your Fall planter throughout the season. Check it weekly to deadhead spent flowers or cut back diseased plants.

2. Set Up An Outdoor Heater or Fire Pit

Another great way to transition your patio from Summer to Fall is to beat the chill. One practical way to beat the weather is to purchase an outdoor patio heater. You can get one that operates on gas, propane, or electric depending on your preference. The key is to learn about the styles of patio heaters and then choose a type that fits your patio set up the best.

However, if you want a source of heat that also brings people together in a fun way, an outdoor fire pit is the way to go. Before you consider adding a fire, make sure that your patio doesn’t have an overhang or low-hanging branches, otherwise, it can become a potential fire hazard.

There are lots of different types of fire pits to choose from, but once you find a type you’re comfortable with, you can set up furniture around it and get ready to enjoy sitting around your new fire pit making memories together.

3. String Up Lights & Use Lanterns

There are a lot of ways to upgrade your backyard space and impress visitors, but if you haven’t installed special lighting yet, it should be at the top of your list. You may already have an outdoor light or some landscaping lights out in your garden. However, the best Fall patio ideas incorporate mood lighting as well, since it can help create that special atmosphere in your space. Plus, it allows you to continue using your patio during those Fall evenings when the sun sets earlier each day.

One easy way to add lighting is to place different sizes of lanterns around your patio. And a quick online search will show you that your style options are endless – modern, chic, rustic, or traditional. You can find a variety of outdoor lanterns to suit every style. And if you want something safer than one that uses a candle, you can find lanterns that are solar-powered, battery-operated, or even electric.

In addition to lanterns, a string of outdoor lights can also breathe fresh life into your Fall patio space. There are plenty of great outdoor string light options, you just need to choose what matches your patio space the best.

Make sure you factor in considerations like how many outlets you have and their location, any trees or shrubs around your patio, and other structures you can use to hang the lights. If you have an outdoor structure like a pergola, you’ve already got a great place to install them.

String lights lit during a brisk fall evening sunset.

Some other ways to hang your lights include installing posts into the ground or the planters. No matter how you put them up, make sure they cast light evenly around your patio and provide a soft, warm light to brighten your Fall patio. 

4. Decorate With Outdoor Pillows & Throw Blankets

The final touch to transition your patio from Summer to Fall is to add in some decorative accents to fit the season. A warm blanket is a perfect accent, as it can be decorative and useful at the same time. Huddling under a warm blanket will turn a crisp Fall evening into a relaxing retreat from the day.

When you go to purchase throw blankets for your outdoor space, make sure to find ones made of waterproof fabric, as they will stay drier than those labeled as water-resistant. You can find a lot of great options online, but our favorite is this soft L.L. Bean waterproof blanket that comes in a cute plaid pattern perfect for Fall.

Also keep an eye out at your local home goods store for any cute, decorative Fall pillows you can add to your chairs. A cute print can complement your Fall planters nicely and also bring out the autumnal colors around your patio.

If your patio needs a complete redesign, check out our guide on how to decorate a patio for year-round enjoyment.

A colorful "hello fall" pillow sits on a black outdoor chair with a green cushion.

If you still feel like your patio space is missing that final touch, consider if you need to include more cozy furniture around your space. More seating means you can host more of your family and friends and new seating means everyone will be comfortable, too.

Want to completely revamp your patio?

Consider adding some new lawn furniture. Get inspired by browsing our selection of beautiful and low-maintenance lawn furniture.

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childs adirondack chairs
Finch Collection

As you’re spending more time outdoors, does it feel like something is missing on your porch or patio? Having an outdoor swing for adults is a great way to slow down and enjoy nice weather. Plus, it’s one of many simple ways you can affordably upgrade your backyard. And Amish porch swings are known for their premium quality, durability, and variety of styles, which means you can easily find one that can handle outdoor weather while matching your preferred decorating style.

Below we’ll discuss different styles of swings available and what kind of upkeep they require. That way you can choose the best type for your outdoor space.

Swing Materials Available

When shopping, you’ll typically see swings are either made of wood or poly material. Both materials can make for a comfortable swing but have slight differences in how they age.

Poly Swings

There are a lot of benefits when you choose poly furniture, one of the best ones being that it requires very little maintenance. Poly furniture is durable (it can last up to 20 years) and can withstand:

  • Moisture
  • Heat
  • Direct sun

This means that you won’t have to battle mold, mildew, cracks, splits, or fading. Plus, you don’t have to worry about taking extreme precautions to protect it during the cold winter weather.

Poly material is also a great eco-friendly product. Among frequently asked questions about Poly material, most people want to know what exactly it’s made from. Poly material is typically composed mostly of recycled materials like milk jugs, plastic bottles, and other post-industrial materials.

A swing made of durable Poly material.

 Wood Swings

Always a classic look, wood furniture has a timeless appeal that you just can’t beat. If you like the natural look and feel of wood, then it’s the perfect choice to use for your porch swing.

Over time, wood weathers as well. This can create an attractive, rustic look that complements your outdoor space’s style. Plus, you can also stain it or paint it over time if you decide you want to change its look.

Wood is also an economical choice for furniture. And if you choose a type of wood known for wearing well against the elements, it can provide long-lasting use just like poly furniture. It just requires a bit more maintenance to ensure it lasts longer.

Styles of Amish Porch Swings

If you’re interested in adding a stand-alone Amish porch swing, you’ll notice two style options are available. You can choose from either a regular style swing or a glider swing. 

Glider swings are a great option as they:

  • Don’t require the work of hanging
  • Use less space while in motion
  • Won’t leave damage or marks on surfaces
  • Offer better balance than a rocking chair

However, opting for a regular stand-alone lawn swing isn’t a bad decision either. With a normal swing, you’re in control of the motion. And thanks to its design, you can place a swing anywhere in your yard.

If you’re looking to install a more traditional hanging swing, first scope out a spot. Make sure it has adequate support for adults and then follow these porch swing hanging practices to make sure you install the hardware correctly. That way you can safely enjoy your new porch swing.

No matter what style you choose, adding a swing is a great way to create a beautiful outdoor space. Plus, the best perk of porch swings is that you can enjoy sharing a seat with someone else, making it a great way to also connect with others.

How to Care for Your Swing

Once your new swing is set up, maintenance is the key to helping you enjoy using it for years to come. Here are some suggestions on how you can keep it in nice condition.

How to Care for a Poly Swing

The good news is that there isn’t much you have to do to keep your swing looking nice. If you notice your swing getting dirty simply:

  1. Mix up warm water with a little dish soap in a bucket.
  2. Find a clean cloth or rag.
  3. Wipe down your furniture with the mixture.
  4. Rinse completely.

If you have tougher stains or want to sanitize surfaces, just mix up ⅔ water and ⅓ bleach and instead, wipe down the swing, and rinse. 

How to Care for a Wood Swing

Similar to a poly one, it’s easy to care for your wood swing. Occasionally you’ll notice it may need a good cleaning. If that’s the case follow these steps:

  1. Mix up warm water with a little dish soap.
  2. Find a clean cloth, rag, or scrub brush.
  3. Wipe away dirt and use the brush for hard-to-reach spots.
  4. Rinse completely.

If that’s not cutting it, sometimes you can also try using baking soda to clean your patio furniture. Or you can also power wash it and then re-stain the piece. However, if you keep up with cleaning any spills or dirt on your swing then you won’t have to deep clean it over time.

A swing is one of the best outdoor investments you can make if you’re looking to enjoy your space more. And with the right type of swing for your environment and a little bit of maintenance, it can be the best way to spend time drawing near to nature and to others.

Upgrade Your Outdoor Space

Check out our variety of beautiful, handcrafted Amish porch swings and outdoor furniture, available in a variety of styles!

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Wood stained Amish-built double lawn sing with hearts on roof with rollback seats

Building a new horse barn can be daunting, whether you’re an experienced owner looking to upgrade or a first-time horse owner. You’re likely searching for a cost-effective solution that will offer good shelter and enough square footage for your tack supplies and feed. 

Wondering how to build a horse barn that meets all those needs? Use this guide to help you make informed decisions & perhaps give you a few horse barn ideas as you build your barn from start to finish.

Choose a Location & Survey Your Land

The first step in building a new barn is to scope out your land to find the right spot. There are lots of ideas for choosing where to place a horse barn, but it’s most important that you:

  • Choose a well-drained spot that won’t flood.
  • Find an area that’s level and won’t need expensive excavating work.
  • Select a location that can easily connect to utilities.
  • Pick an area that’s either near a road or easy to access.

Picking the right spot will save you time and money as you start on your horse barn construction, so it’s important to choose carefully. You should also check if you’ll need a permit or any other type of approval from your state and township before building. 

Consider Types of Horse Barn Designs & Ideas

After picking a spot, it’s time to see what horse barn structures are available and choose one that matches your needs. There are four common types of barns:

1. Lean-To Barns

This type of barn features a large front overhang that’s supported with headers and posts. The overhang offers a great temporary shelter for horses as well.

2. Modular Barns

This type of barn can be built quickly and usually costs less than other types. It arrives in pieces and is then put together on-site. This barn also is designed to include a center aisle. 

3. Run-In Barns

This type of barn is another low-cost option that can offer your horse a secure shelter. Some people also use them to store hay or feed. 

4. Shed Row Barns

This type of barn is intended to be your horse’s main home and it typically has stalls with separate doors at the front.

Plan Your Interior Design

Once you choose a barn style, it’s time to start carefully planning the interior. Aside from just considering how much natural light you want for your horse, you should also plan how you’ll store horse supplies. 

Inside a custom horse barn with new wood and freshly painted iron bars.

Horse Feed Storage

How you store your horse feed is another important detail for designing your own horse barn. There are lots of best practices for horse feed storage, but the main goal is to keep it in a cool, dry spot. Feed ruined from moisture or rodents can ultimately harm your horse’s health. You can either build a barn large enough to store it along with your horse or add a smaller barn to store only feed.

Gear Storage

If you’re storing your saddle and other equipment in the same barn, also plan on increasing your square footage needs. Maybe you’re already planning to build a large barn, in which case designing a tack room is the perfect solution. If you’re not, just make sure you have wide enough aisles where you can place tack supplies off to the side, away from your horse.

Custom Horse Barn Accessories

After you’ve narrowed down the basics, it’s time to consider barn add-ons. Certain upgrades can help your barn last longer or make maintenance easier and more efficient. Below are a few options you should consider adding:

  • Reinforcing brackets for regions with hurricanes
  • Glue LAM LVL headers for regions with heavy snowfall
  • Seamless spouting for reduced maintenance 
  • Vapor proof lights for better visibility and lasting use
  • Chew guards for protection from your horse
  • A grill with a hay rack and feed hole for easy feeding

Work on Building Horse Stalls From Scratch

Once your barn is in progress, make sure you and your barn builder have a clear plan on the most important part of the interior — the horse stalls. You want to make sure your horse is comfortable in its new home.

Research best practices for horse stall design, and make sure your stall design has enough space, ventilation, and lighting. Plus, build your stalls with the future in mind. Are you planning on buying more horses? Now is the time to add more stalls so you don’t quickly outgrow your new structure.

Also, if your new barn will have a center aisle, make sure the stalls won’t take away too much center space. If the aisle is too narrow, you’ll have difficulty moving your horse or any supplies.

Help Your Horse Transition to its New Home

Once it’s built, the last step with your new custom horse barn is to introduce your horse to its new home. Below are some tips for successfully managing the transition.

A horse peeks his head out of a stall.

1. Set up Each Stall

First, lay rubber mats over the stone dust and install at least 4 feet high kickplates. Then add in enough bedding and bank the stall with extra bedding so your horse and the new barn walls are both protected.

2. Keep the Stall Clear of Objects

Wait to store any water buckets or feeding equipment inside the stall until your horse is familiar with its space. That way there’s nothing the horse could mess with and damage as it settles.

3. Place Hay in the Stall

To help your horse settle, try putting two piles of hay opposite each other. This will encourage your horse to walk the whole stall while it eats. Also, mix in hay from the old stall to help your horse’s digestive system adjust and prevent colic.

4. Reduce Noises and Distractions

When introducing the horse, keep the barn clear of items that may hurt it could hurt itself on if it becomes excited. Additionally, try to keep the barn clear of noises and distractions, like other farm animals, until your horse becomes settled.

After successfully introducing your horse to its new home, you are set up with a well-designed barn that should serve you and your animals well for years to come. Don’t have animals but want a new barn? We’ve got you covered! There are many ways you can fill an empty barn, we’ve outlined some of our favorites here.


Need More Horse Barn Ideas

Penn Dutch Structures proudly offers a wide variety of horse barns for sale if you would rather purchase a high-quality, Amish-built horse barn.

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Modular – Trailside 30 x 24 Trailside Center Aisle Horse Barn w/ Cupola
Modular Trailside Horse Barn

Back in the olden days, children couldn’t wait to go outside after supper. They spent a great deal of their time exploring and learning outdoors, rather than in front of TV, computer, and cell phone screens. These days, it is crucial to acknowledge the importance of outdoor play for children.

Benefits of Play in Child Development

Outdoor play is undoubtedly beneficial in early childhood development. It can help children grow both fine and gross motor skills, and can also improve coordination, determination, and balance. Swinging, climbing on ladders, going down slides, and using monkey bars are all great ways for kids to develop physically. 

There are also longer-term effects of spending time outdoors that will last long after childhood. Health benefits of outdoor activities include

  • Getting more vitamin D, which can have positive impacts on your bones, heart, and brain.
  • Increasing your activity and step count.
  • Improving your concentration.
  • Encouraging faster healing.

The Benefits of Spending Time In Nature

Many kids are drawn to the outdoors naturally. There are so many new things to experience in the natural world. While it may seem like all fun and games to kids, there are significant life skills that can be taught through outdoor play, too.

Getting outside can help children be more imaginative and creative. There are far fewer rules outdoors when it comes to “how” to play. Children will invent their own games and activities based simply on what is around them.

The outdoors also teaches responsibility. Children should be taught from an early age that they need to respect nature and that they are responsible for any harm they do to the planet. Growing plants with your children is a great way to teach responsibility.

Mental Health and Outdoor Activity

Getting outside can even help your children’s mental health. After being cooped up all day at school, the outdoors can provide a change of scenery. It can also improve your child’s mood and help reset them after a bad day at school.

It also provides an outlet where they can use their outdoor voices and relieve anxiety and stress. Studies have even found that just five minutes of outdoor play can help kids’ self-esteem. With significant benefits like these, we can’t ignore the importance of outdoor play for children.

5 Ways to Get Kids Outside

If your children would rather watch TV or play video games than be outside, try these five activities to help them learn to love the outdoors.

1. Purchase a Swing Set

Swing sets are a classic for a reason. Adding a swing set to your yard will provide your family with years of fun and exercise.

You can customize your swing set with a number of elements, like swings, slides, and other accessories. These can be tailored to suit the ages and interests of your children, and can be changed out over the years to continue to challenge and intrigue them as they grow.

Providing your children with backyard play equipment can also help your yard become the neighborhood gathering spot. It’s an easy way to help socialize young children before they start school and for you to get to know the other parents in your neighborhood.

2. Play Yard Games as a Family

Playing yard games as a family is another great way to get outside. Whether you prefer croquet or cornhole, there are options for every age and every space. Playing as a family (even in competition) also boasts the added benefit of spending time as a family.

Yard games also teach children emotional intelligence about friendly competition and following rules. These lessons aren’t always emphasized in the classroom, so discovering ways to teach them at home is crucial.

3. Encourage Imaginative Play With a Playhouse

Playhouses are another great option to get your kids outside. Studies about the importance of outdoor play have shown that they present opportunities for free-form, imaginative play. This is crucial to children’s social and emotional skill development.  

Red playhouse in fenced backyard

Your children may pretend their playhouse is a house, school, store, or even a castle. This means that a playhouse can provide a lot of mileage for your family at an affordable price point.

Playhouses can also serve double-duty as a storage unit once your children have grown up. They can also add property value to any family with children if you choose to move and leave your playhouse behind.

4. Allow Children to Do Homework Outside

After being at school all day, it’s no surprise that children are often full of energy when they get home. Unfortunately, they may have homework to do before they can play and relax.

Encouraging children to do their homework or read outside is a great way for them to get fresh air and a change of scenery, while also getting their work done.

Adding a gazebo or pavilion to your yard will help kids stay outside longer without the worry of sunburn. Lawn swings and child-sized lawn furniture can also provide a comfortable spot for your children to read or do homework outside in the warmer months.

6. Eat Family Dinner Outdoors

Because of busy schedules, many families end up eating in multiple shifts. Eating together as a family can help keep you up to date on your children’s lives and strengthen your bond as a family. 

Pergola and lawn furniture on patio

Having a communal outdoor space that is well-shaded will make dining outside a breeze. Just be sure to purchase splinter-free furniture to avoid a dramatic end to a nice family dinner. There are even companies that manufacture child-sized versions of your favorite outdoor pieces, like Adirondack chairs and picnic tables.

Get Your Whole Family Outside

Explore our selection of in-stock and custom-built shade structures to keep your family and guests comfy and cool.

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16’ x 16’ White Vinyl Hampton Pavilion With Brown Asphalt Shingles In A Backyard Pool Patio

Having a backyard provides endless family fun and entertaining opportunities. But what good is a backyard without a way to make it comfortable for family and friends to relax and play? There are a number of ways to add shade and curb appeal with outdoor shading solutions.

Creating Shade In Your Backyard

Creating Shade with Trees

Trees and shrubbery are a common way of adding shade to your yard. They add curb appeal and value to a home. Trees and shrubs are also relatively easy to grow and are good for the environment.

However, they can provide patchy shade and take a long time to grow. Depending on your climate and the type of trees you plant, they may also not provide year-round protection. They also provide little overhead protection from the sun and rain.

Temporary Shade Solutions

Temporary shade solutions are another way to add cover to your backyard. These solutions include shade sails, large umbrellas, pop-up tents, and canopies. Temporary structures provide flexible shade protection that can be moved around your yard. Some structures can even be folded up or taken down when not in use.

On the other hand, temporary shade solutions are built to move, not to last. This makes them susceptible to being blown over by wind, tearing, and fading in the sun. They are typically anchored to the ground with pegs or held in place by their own weight, which means they can be unstable. Temporary shade structures are also expensive. They are typically designed for short-term rental use, not as a long-term addition to a backyard.

Semi-Permanent & Permanent Outdoor Shade Structures

If you’re interested in creating shade in your backyard for years to come, you may want to consider a semi-permanent or permanent outdoor shade structure. They may be a large initial investment, but they will last far longer than temporary structures. They also provide immediate shade, unlike trees that take years to grow tall enough to provide adequate shade. They are also portable and can be taken with you when you move if you choose.

What Outdoor Shade Option Is Right for You?

With so many options available, it can be difficult to determine the right outdoor shading solutions for your yard. Each structure provides a different level of shade and a different purpose within your yard. However, all of the structures can be positioned and oriented to maximize the amount of cover they provide.

There are four main structures that can serve as outdoor shading solutions:

14′ x 20′ Bell Roof, Vinyl Gazebo

Gazebos are comprised of a pitched roof surrounded by upright posts. They can be oval, octagon, or dodecagon shaped, and range in size from 8’-50’ in diameter. Gazebos provide the most shade because of their solid, pitched roof and options for railings and screens.

Wood pavilion covering lawn furniture

Pavilions feature a pitched or flat roof and four or six main posts. They are typically square or rectangular and come in both wood and vinyl options. Pavilions are another great outdoor shading solution because of their solid roofs, but are mostly exposed on their four sides. This means that they allow in slightly more sunlight than gazebos.

White vinyl pergola covering dining table on patio

Pergolas are very similar to pavilions, but they feature a flat, open roof. They are available in both wood and vinyl and come in a variety of styles and designs. Pergolas create less shade because of their open slat roofing, but fabric can be added to the roof for an airy look that still keeps the sun and rain out.

3 garden arbor styles

Arbors are archways designed to be placed over a pathway. They are traditionally wood, and come in a variety of colors and stains. Arbors offer some shade and protection from the sun. If you opt to grow vines or climbing plants on them, they can provide even more shade for your yard. If you are looking for additional uses for arbors, .

Explore the distinctions between arbors, pergolas, gazebos, and pavilions by reading our blog post on the topic.

The Benefits of Shade Structures

Extend Outdoor Play

Providing shade in your backyard means you can spend more time outside. Without shade, children and pets can be exposed to harmful UV radiation, which can cause sunburn and heatstroke. In addition to lowering overall temperatures, outdoor shade structures keep asphalt and concrete cool in the summer months.

Solid roof solutions like gazebos and pavilions can also provide a space for children to play outside even in the rain. Being outdoors gives children the freedom to make noise and get their energy out without being disruptive to the rest of the family.

Create Comfort for Guests

Adding a shade structure will also help create more opportunities for guests and entertaining. They offer a shady place to sit that is protected from wind and rain. Sudden rain showers will no longer be the end of warm summer nights. With a climate-controlled environment, all guests will be comfortable coming over for dinner, drinks, or simply an afternoon out in the backyard.

Keep Your Home Cooler

If you opt to place your structure close to your home, you may find that your cooling costs go down! The shadows that your structure casts can create additional shade in your yard or garden. Some people even strategically place their structure near a sunroom or other minimally-insulated room to help keep it cool in the summer.

Build a Haven for Plants and Local Wildlife

Adding a shady spot in your backyard is the perfect way to attract wildlife. From birds to bunnies, many types of local wildlife enjoy a shady spot to cool down and rest in the summer. A shade structure installed near bushes or trees will be especially tempting to animals.

Tomato plant on the vine

You can also use your new-found shade to create a shade garden. There are a number of plants that thrive in shade and will wilt if given too much sun. Vegetable gardens full of tomatoes and peppers also thrive in partial shade, as they will become scorched in direct sunlight.

Picking Out Your Perfect Shade Solution

If you’ve decided it’s time to add a shade solution to your yard, you probably have a lot of questions. Which material is best? Which structures go best with the style of my home? How can I maximize the amount of shade it provides? Our experts are happy to answer any questions you may have so you can find the perfect outdoor shading solutions for your family.

Ready To Add Shade To Your Yard?

Take a look at our wide selection of gazebos, pavilions, pergolas, and garden arbors to get started!

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Wooden Outdoor Pergola With Hanging Lights Over A Fireplace With Outdoor Furniture
Summer Breeze Round Top Arbor In Cedar

A quality shed is a long-term investment, which means that if you’re in the market, you probably haven’t bought one in years. Maybe you’re even searching for your first shed and feel overwhelmed with options. Either way, there are easy signs you can keep an eye out for to make sure that you select a shed that will last for years to come. Here is a quick overview on what to look for when buying a shed:

  • High-Quality Structural Materials
  • Finished Wood or Vinyl Siding
  • Flush, Accurately-Cut Joints
  • Lengthy Manufacturer and Installer Warranties
  • Level Doors and Tidy Details

What to Look for When Buying a Shed

While it’s easy to focus only on color and style when selecting a shed, it is important to also keep quality in mind. A high-quality shed will last for years to come without extensive maintenance or repairs — a quality that is worth its weight in gold. Here are some further details on what to check for when buying your new shed.

High-Quality Structural Materials

For the best defense against moisture and mold, shed floors should be made of pressure-treated plywood, not strand or particle board, which will buckle and warp with moisture. Tongue and groove plywood flooring is even better, and may be worth the price of upgrading if available. The flooring should either be finished or sanded smooth for you to finish yourself.

The interior walls of a storage shed

The walls of your shed should be constructed with 2×4 studs and plywood, not particle board or any other wood composite. If a shed looks like it could blow over at any minute, it probably will. Make sure the structure feels strong and sturdy, especially if you live in a climate with harsh temperatures or weather.

The roof and rafters should also be constructed out of 2x4s and plywood, with 30-year architectural or three-tab shingles. A sturdy roof will keep your structure square in high winds and prevent it from sagging. Shingles will protect the structure inside from moisture and mold.

Finished Wood or Vinyl Siding

Storage sheds are most commonly made of wood or vinyl. If you select a vinyl style, make sure that the siding is truly made of vinyl, and not plastic. Plastic will crack and mold over time, and will require more upkeep than low-maintenance vinyl siding.

Flush, Accurately-Cut Joints

As you look at the in-stock sheds on the lot, don’t be afraid to take a closer look at the joints and overall carpentry of the structure. You want to see flush, well-cut joints that look neat and level. Looking for an Amish-built shed is a great way to ensure craftsmanship, as they are known for building quality sheds and structures in a traditional style.

Good wood joints is a sign of quality sheds

Lengthy Manufacturer and Installer Warranties

Warranties not only ensure low maintenance and repair costs for the coming years, they also prove that the company is willing to stand by their structure. Some elements of your shed, like shingles, may come with a product warranty of up to 30 years.

The builder and installer should also offer a warranty on their construction and installation. As a rule of thumb, look for a warranty of three to five years. 

Level Doors and Tidy Details

Buying a quality structure means checking every last detail. Don’t be afraid to open a door or window, or examine the shingles a little closer. You’re paying for a long-term investment, so every detail should be just right. If you’re not finding what you’re looking for in-stock, you may also consider building a custom shed or structure.

10 Questions to Ask When Buying a Shed

There are a number of logistical questions to ask when buying a shed. How large should it be? Should it be made of vinyl or wood? But there are also a few questions you should ask your shed builder to make sure they are a reliable source for such a big investment.

Here are the top ten questions to ask when buying a shed:

1). How long have you been in business? A builder of quality sheds will likely have been around for years, and should be able to provide reviews or testimonials from existing customers.

2). What is your shed building process? What materials do you use? Materials matter when it comes to buying a shed that will last. Listen for mentions of 2×4 studs and plywood, as well as traditional Amish craftsmanship, which is known for its longevity. Steer clear of any builders who mention strand board, particle board, or plastic siding, all of which are prone to buckling and mold.

3). What warranties do you offer — on both the materials and the structure? Many structural components have warranties of up to 30 years, and the company should offer a three to five year warranty on the actual structure itself. Offering a warranty not only protects you as the customer, but it shows that the company believes in the quality and craftsmanship of their structures.

4). Who will be installing my shed? Workers from your company, or a third party? Ideally, the people building your shed will be the same people installing it. Third parties may not be as familiar with the construction or installation required for your specific structure, which can cause repercussions in the long run.

5). Do you offer shed maintenance and repair? For convenience, it’s a good idea to choose a shed building company that also offers maintenance and repairs — or can recommend a local partner instead. This means they are invested in the long term success of your structure, and also eliminates the hassle of finding a maintenance worker.

6). What standard maintenance and repairs should I expect in the next five to ten years? A reputable shed builder should be able to provide you with a typical schedule of maintenance and cost for the lifetime of your shed. This can help you to budget and show the value of buying a quality shed now, since it will need less maintenance and repair later.

7). Can you relocate my shed if I move? Since storage sheds can last for 10 to 15 years, you’ll want to make sure your shed installer can relocate it if you move. While this service typically isn’t free, it is almost always cheaper than purchasing a new shed for your new home.

8). What zoning laws should I be aware of? While it is the buyer’s responsibility to do research on HOA and zoning laws for their address, local shed builders should be able to give you a general idea of the laws in surrounding townships and counties. This is a great question to test how long a company has been in business and how up-to-date they keep their employees.

9). Where should I install my shed? While the location of your shed install will likely be up to personal preference, your shed builder may have some input on the best placement for enduring harsh weather. Being able to provide suggestions on location demonstrates their knowledge and experience in the field.

10). Why should I buy a shed from your business? This question is what separates big box stores from local shed builders. If they can explain their company values in addition to answering the questions above, you’ve found a reliable source for your next quality shed. If the only answer they can provide is that they want to make a sale, move along to the next builder on your list.

Ready To Buy A New Shed?

Now that you know what to look for when buying a quality shed, contact us for a quote on an in-stock or custom-built structure. We’re happy to share our experience, knowledge, and expertise with you.

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A-Frame Elite Shed

While we have a huge variety of in-stock outdoor structures, you may have very specific needs or a particular idea in mind of what you want your structure to look like. With our online design tool, you can design a custom pavilion, gazebo, or pergola with the exact specifications and features you want. We have all the resources you need to create the backyard of your dreams.

Why Design Your Own Custom Pavilion, Gazebo, or Pergola?

Space

Many customers come to us looking to fill a specific space in their backyard. Whether you’re adding a pergola to your existing deck or patio, or simply looking for a gazebo that fits snugly in your garden, selecting the right size structure is crucial.

While we have a wide variety of in-stock structures at every size, the ability to build your own custom structure will make sure that it’s the perfect fit for your space.

Style

Outdoor structures are a significant purchase, and just like a wedding dress or a nice suit, you want your custom shade structure to be tailored to you. With a variety of dimensions, colors, and add-ons, you can create a structure that’s unique to you and your space. You’ll never have to worry that your backyard will look just like your neighbor’s.

Cost

When you build a custom shade structure, you only pay for what you want. There’s no need to buy a higher-cost package just for one feature you like.

Going custom also means that you can add all the extras you can dream of, like additional electrical receptacles, screens, and cupolas. Designing your own pavilion, gazebo, or pergola gets you the best bang for your buck.

How to Design a Custom Shade Structure

Thanks to our online design tool, creating a custom-built pavilion, pergola, or gazebo doesn’t have to be stressful. We’ve broken the process down into five steps of customization that will help you design the perfect shade structure for your yard.

18’x22′ Kingston Pergola Shown with Canyon Brown Stain

1. Style & Shape

The style of your structure will be one of the biggest decisions you make when designing a custom shade structure. Depending on what structure you’re planning, there are a few things you should keep in mind.

Pavilions

We offer pavilions in both wood and vinyl. While both are durable and relatively low-maintenance, one may be a better fit for you. Wood is a beautiful, natural option, but it requires annual maintenance to clean and re-stain the exterior of the structure. Vinyl requires little-to-no upkeep, but has limited color and texture options.

We offer six base pavilion styles so you can find a structure shape that compliments your home and any other structures on your property:

  • Vinyl
    • Traditional
    • Hampton
    • Grand Estate
  • Wood
    • Traditional
    • Alpine
    • Grand Estate

Pergolas

Just like with pavilions, there are a number of styles to choose from for the base of your pergola. First, you’ll need to choose whether you’d like a wood or vinyl pergola. While it requires more maintenance, wood is a popular choice for its natural beauty.

12 x 16 Artisan White Vinyl Pergola 1022 Round Columns

We also offer four base pergola styles to start with:

  • Vinyl
    • Traditional
    • Artisan
  • Wood
    • Traditional
    • Artisan Cedar

If you are interested in learning which material is right for you, read our guide on wood vs vinyl pergolas.

Gazebos

Gazebos also come in wood and vinyl. Because of the wide range of uses for gazebos, we offer four different shapes:

  • Vinyl
    • Octagon
    • Oval
    • Rectangle
    • Decagon
  • Wood
    • Octagon
    • Oval
    • Rectangle
    • Decagon

We also have two different railing styles to choose from when building your custom gazebo:

  • Country
  • Colonial

2. Size

Size is one of the biggest considerations to take into account when designing a custom shade structure. It’s also one of the main reasons why people choose to go custom in order to fit a structure into their existing space. Check out the size ranges we offer for each structure to find one that fits your landscape.

Pavilions

The smallest custom-sized pavilion we make is 10’x10’. The largest sizes we offer are 24’x24’ and 20’x28’.

14’ x 14’ Alpine Cedar Wood Pavilion Shown With Mahogany Stain and Asphalt Shingles

Pergolas

We offer a number of pergola sizes from 8’x12’ to 16’x20’.

Gazebos

Our gazebo sizes are dependent on shape. The smallest custom gazebos are our 8’x8’ octagons, and there are unique sizes every few feet up to 30’x30’ dodecagons.

3. Roofing & Flooring

Roofing and flooring are two big decisions when it comes to designing a custom-built pavilion, pergola, or gazebo. Most customers look for a mix of durability and design.

Pavilions

If you’re looking for a durable and long-lasting pavilion, you’ll need to select an appropriate roof. Here are the options you can choose from:

  • No Roofing
  • Asphalt Shingles
  • Rubber Slate
  • 5V Metal
  • Standing Seam Metal
16’ x 16’ Hampton Pavilion Ceiling Shown With White Vinyl

Once you’ve selected your roofing type, you’ll need to select a color. Based on your material selection, you’ll have up to sixteen potential options:

  • Dual Gray
  • Aged Redwood
  • Charcoal Gray
  • Driftwood
  • Dual Black
  • Dual Brown
  • Earthtone Cedar
  • Rivera Red
  • Forest Green
  • Harvard Slate
  • National Blue
  • Weatherwood
  • Green
  • Red
  • Blue
  • Bronze

Pergolas

By default, our pergolas come with a classic slatted rooftop. If you’d like a shadier space or want to use your pergola to grow vine plants, you may opt to add a lattice roof to your custom pergola.

Gazebos

There are also a number of roofing options to consider when building a custom gazebo:

  • No Roofing
  • Asphalt Shingles
  • Rubber Slate
  • 5V Metal
  • Standing Seam Metal
  • Cedar Shakes

Depending on your roofing material, you can select from up to seventeen options:

  • Dual Gray
  • Aged Redwood
  • Charcoal Gray
  • Driftwood
  • Dual Black
  • Dual Brown
  • Earthtone Cedar
  • Rivera Red
  • Forest Green
  • Harvard Slate
  • National Blue
  • Weatherwood
  • Green
  • Red
  • Blue
  • Bronze
  • Cedar

4. Color

Color is often a reason why customers opt to design their own shade structure rather than buying one in stock. The color options for our wood and vinyl custom pavilions, pergolas, and gazebos are as follows:

  • Wood
    • Unfinished
    • Stained: Cedar, Canyon Brown, Cinder, and Mahogany
    • Painted: White or Almond
  • Vinyl
    • White or Almond

5. Extras & Add-ons

Depending on the structure and style options you choose, you can select from a number of add-ons for your custom structure.

Post & Railing Styles

Pavilions and pergolas can be designed with a variety of different post thicknesses from 5”x5” to 10”x10”. While all post thicknesses boast the same sturdiness, one may better suit the style of your home and landscaping better.

If you’re designing a custom gazebo, you’ll be able to choose the style of your railing spokes. Vinyl options include Country and Colonial, while wood options include Dutch and New England. Just like with post styles, all of these railings are sturdy and durable, but one may be a better fit with the design of your home. If you prefer a more airy look, you can opt for turned posts and no bottom rails on your gazebo.

Cupolas

Cupolas are small extensions that can add character and charm to your custom shade structure. Our cupolas are available for both pavilions and gazebos. The styles available depend on the overall style of the structure. They can also be bought separately as an add-on later.

Electrical

If you plan on using your structure for entertaining, you can add an electrical package to your custom build. The package comes with one receptacle, and you can add on additional receptacles to each of the main posts of your structure.

Additional Gazebo Options

Victorian braces can add a touch of class to a simple gazebo. If you’re looking for additional protection from sun, weather, and insects, you may want to select a screen package or VinyLite windows. You can also add Amish-built benches or a screened floor if you desire.

6. Requesting a Quote

Once you’ve designed the custom structure of your dreams, you can get a quote with one click. One of our designers will take a look at what you’ve created and provide you with a price and any concerns or considerations to think about. When you’re ready, they’ll bring your custom-built structure to life, and deliver it to your home so you can enjoy it for years to come!

Start Designing Your Dream Structure

Use our online design software to design a pergola, gazebo, or pavilion that meets your needs.

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Curb appeal may be what attracts buyers to your home, but your backyard is what sells it. Today’s lifestyle trend is moving outdoors. Homebuyers want an attractive, yet low-maintenance, yard. The backyard extends the living area. So, it pays to make your backyard as attractive as the front when you’re putting your property on the market.

Here are five backyard upgrades to make your backyard appealing to prospective buyers without breaking your budget:

Lawn mower cutting grass

1. Clean It Up

This is a must-do. Clear your yard of debris. Neatly mow and edge the grass. Shape up shrubs and trim tree branches. If you detest yard work, consider hiring help, at least for the time your home is on the market. Be sure the fence is in good repair and patch cracks in porches, patios, and walkways. A fresh coat of paint can spruce up outbuildings.

De-clutter Your Backyard

Backyards often become home to things that are no longer used, such as the kids’ rusting, old swing set. Get rid of them. Pink flamingos may be a hoot, and garden gnomes might be cute, but don’t assume they’ll amuse a buyer. Put them away. A storage shed is where tools belong, not lying in the yard.

8' x 12' Elite Quaker Style Wooden Shed

2. Make Your Outdoor Living Space Homey and Inviting

Buyers want to envision how inviting and comfortable their backyard can be. If you have a patio or deck, you’re a step ahead in the game. Make it appealing with comfortable seating, tables, and lots of plants in a variety of pots and vases. If you don’t have an outdoor living area, consider adding one. A gazebo or pergola can create a cozy living space and add visual appeal to your yard. These and other outdoor structures are available in a variety of styles and sizes. A warning though: No one wants to see bare concrete slabs. If you’re stuck with one, consider paint, tile, or adding an outdoor rug. This will help prevent your patio from looking like a parking space.

3. Don’t Let Your Yard Intimidate Potential Buyers

Remember, the trend is toward low maintenance. Buyers don’t want a wide swath of grass that needs mowing, weeding, fertilizing, and watering. Likewise, they may not want to be stuck with pruning lines of rose bushes along the fence line or fruit trees that draw insects and need constant care. A buyer may see your dream garden as a maintenance nightmare. Tough as it may be, pare down vegetation that suggests a lot of upkeep. Here are some easy and inexpensive ways to cut down on the turf.

  • Create wide flower beds along the fence and against the house. Fill them with colorful mulch and plant native perennial flowers, native grasses, and small, neat, well-spaced shrubs. If you’re going on the market in fall or winter, choose seasonal plants that will add a touch of color and keep your yard from looking drab.
  • Install pathways of paver stones or gravel. These add visual variety and break up the expense of turf.
  • Make a seating nook or create a zen or meditation garden.  Use some pavers for flooring and arrange a garden bench and chair. Potted plants are a nice touch. Even if you have a patio or deck, a gazebo in the yard can be appealing and cut down on the amount of grass. A swing set or playground will appeal to buyers with children, but only if it’s in pristine condition.

conversation seating on an outdoor patio at night

4. Add Trees

If you have good trees, you’re in luck. Make sure they’re well-shaped and remove any dead branches and low-hanging limbs. Nobody wants to duck branches while they mow. If you don’t have trees, invest in one or two that are native and low maintenance. Pick ones that aren’t water-guzzlers and are at least 8 feet tall. Surround them with circles of colored mulch when you plant to give them a spark and make them easier to mow around. You may have to invest a few hundred dollars, but good trees actually appreciate in value and can increase the return on your home.

5. Think About Lighting

What’s a great backyard if it’s only lit by a dinky, old porch light? Outdoor lighting is an important selling point for both security and aesthetics. You’ll find a wide array of outdoor lights in different price ranges at stores and online. Many include low-cost LED bulbs, and some can be programmed and operated through smart devices. The right lighting will impress a potential buyer who looks forward to evenings outdoors.

Be cost-effective in your backyard planning. Experts estimate that attractive landscaping can add 6 to 12 percent to your home’s value. So do the math and determine what you should spend to get a good return on your investment.

Interested in Adding a Structure to Your Yard?

Contact us today to request a quote. You can also come and view our inventory at our Shrewsbury, PA and Finksburg, MD locations.

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Red Dutch barn shed with a ramp

About the Author: Neil Scarano is a retired real estate agent who enjoys redecorating and flipping houses in his spare time. His specialty is designing backyards with a unique flair.

Adding a garage to your property can solve many space issues. Maybe your home was constructed without a garage or maybe your garage is too full of storage items, garden equipment, and children’s toys to house your cars. Perhaps you’ve outgrown your current two-car garage and need an additional place to store classic cars, motorcycles, ATVs, or boats. No matter what your situation is, you simply need more garage space.

Our garage-buying guide answers all the questions you may have about buying a garage for your home. From increasing your property value and choosing an appropriately-sized garage to learning about all the different garage styles, we’ve included everything you need to know.

Is Adding a Garage a Good Value?

The answer is, yes! When talking to prospective homeowners, a garage is among the most popular features that they are looking for in a new home. So if your home doesn’t have one, buying a garage should be a priority. But, at the same time, you want to see a return on investment for any upgrades you make to your property.

A typical detached, double-car garage project could cost you around $50,000 and could add $30,000 to the value of your home. This is a 66% return on investment. However, purchasing a 24’ x 48’ detached, double-car garage, instead of having one constructed on your property, costs $27,000. This option allows you to return 100% of your investment.

What are the Benefits of a Detached Garage?

Maybe you never considered the option of a pre-fab garage, which is constructed off-site and then delivered and assembled at your home. Here are just a few benefits of adding a pre-fab, detached garage instead of constructing an attached garage.

  • A smoother installation — There is less disruption to your property as the pre-constructed pieces of your garage are delivered and assembled.
  • More placement options — You can choose the best placement for your garage on your property. And, you aren’t limited by the design and shape of your home like you would be with an attached garage.
  • Better security —  Attached garages are the point of entry for many home invasions. If a criminal gains access to a detached garage, your home is still safe plus you can add onto your detached garage cameras and other security equipment for additional safety.
  • Less noise — If your garage serves as a workshop, a stand-alone structure helps to keep excess noise from power tools and other materials from disrupting everyone inside your home.

What are the Specifications for a Single- or Two-Car Garage?

Another big decision when buying a garage is whether you should choose a single-car or two-car garage and how much space each of these structures will take up on your property.

For a single-car garage, it’s recommended that you go with a minimum size of 14’ x 24’. If you want to incorporate storage or workspace, you should add at least 6’ – 8’ to your structure. Most of our single-car garages are built with a wood floor. However, a concrete floor can be utilized if you’ll be housing heavy vehicles or moving vehicles and equipment in and out on a daily basis.

When adding a two-car garage, it’s recommended that you choose a structure that’s at least 24’ x 24’, again adding square footage for storage or workspace. Two-car garages are built on-site on a concrete slab. This is heavy-duty floor support that can hold thousands of pounds.

If you need to add a driveway or expand your current driveway to meet up with your garage, follow the guidelines below to ensure the correct spacing:

  • For a single-car garage, construct your driveway to be 10’ – 14’ wide.
  • If you’re adding a two-car garage, add a driveway that’s  20’ – 24’ wide.

What is the Best Material for a Garage

The majority of the garages that you can add to your property are constructed of wood or vinyl. These are two of the most popular outdoor construction materials. Both are quality materials that are durable and will last for years.

Wood is an in-demand material that many homeowners prefer because of its natural aesthetic that can blend in seamlessly on your property. At the same, there are many paint or stain options available that can make your wooden shed truly stand out.

Wood structures will require regular maintenance as wood has a greater chance of warping, splitting, or degrading when exposed to the elements. You will need to complete regular upkeep to avoid a dull or run-down appearance. We use Duratemp for the construction of our wood garages. This material has a strong plywood inner core and a tough hardboard facing that resists splitting or cracking.

Vinyl materials are highly durable and require less maintenance. Vinyl is also resistant to moisture and insects and stands up well to extreme weather conditions with minimal risk of splintering, twisting, or warping over time. With vinyl, you avoid the need for annual staining, painting, or sealing. Outside of an annual cleaning, there is very little maintenance necessary for a vinyl structure.

However, when choosing a color for your vinyl shed, the options are more limited. Manufacturers offer a variety of vinyl colors to pick from, but there is less opportunity for an exact color match to your home. You may also want to consider the different roofing options for your new garage, we recommend architectural shingles.

What Are My Choices for Garage Styles?

  • A-frame — Has a popular peak roof style with a lower (5/12) pitched roof.
  • Cape Cod — Features a 7/12 roofline that’s taller than an A-frame, but lower than a Classic.
  • Classic — Offers the steepest roof at 9/12, but has lower walls to accommodate the steep roof.
  • Chalet — Features an extra high roof peak for a unique profile. It’s designed with lots of headroom and can accommodate a generous second-story loft.
  • Dutch Barn — Has high side walls to accommodate doors on the sides. A gambrel roof provides a lot of headroom and two-story loft space.
  • Double Wide — Comes standard with two garage doors and three windows. Available up to 48’ long and with a pitched roof as high as 6/12.
  • New England Deluxe — This design upgrade features larger windows, extra wide trim, and unique transom windows in the doors and dormers.

Need Additional Questions Answered?

The Penn Dutch Structures staff can answer your specific questions and help guide you in the right direction when buying a garage.

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Double Garage Door
Double Garage Door

Warm weather has arrived and your family is ready for more outdoor living! Take a look around your deck or patio. Does it have everything you need to spend summer days and evenings outdoors? New outdoor furniture can give your space an instant update. You’ll soon learn, however, that outdoor furniture is a big category and there are many styles, sizes, materials, and colors to choose from. Our patio furniture buying guide can help you narrow down the options by offering helpful tips on buying patio furniture.

Before You Start Shopping for Patio Furniture

Before you start shopping for patio furniture, there are three questions you need to ask yourself. When you have your answers, it will make it easier for you to zero in on the best patio furniture for your home and lifestyle.

How much space do I have?

It’s important that you know the measurements of your outdoor space. You should also make notes on how you plan to use each area of your deck or patio. Will you use one space for dining and dedicate another space for relaxation? If so, note how big each area is. Knowing how much space you have will ensure that you don’t purchase pieces of furniture that overwhelm your space or are dwarfed by your space.

How do I plan to use the space?

When buying patio furniture, you should think about how you spend time outdoors. Do you eat a lot of meals outdoors or host many summer barbecues? Do you start your day with a cup of coffee or wind down your day with a good book on your patio? Different types of patio furniture are best suited for different types of outdoor activities. How you plan to use your outdoor space is a big factor when choosing which patio furniture to buy.

What is my budget?

There is patio furniture available at every budget level! Knowing the amount you have to spend, however, will help you focus on the furniture options that are right for you.

Different Types of Patio Furniture

There a many types of outdoor furniture for you to choose from. Picnic tables and dining sets are perfect for dinners on the patio or a big outdoor picnic. Conversation sets are great for quiet evenings outdoors. Adirondack chairs are ideal for gathering around your fire pit, while lounge chairs are perfect for catching the sun’s rays. What’s the best option for your outdoor space?

What is the Best Material for Patio Furniture?

Patio furniture is crafted from a number of different materials. You’ll find options made of wood, aluminum, wrought iron, and wicker.  But which is the best material for patio furniture?  Most of the patio furniture you’ll find at Penn Dutch Structures is made of polywood lumber. There are a number of benefits to polywood that make it a popular choice for outdoor furniture:

Sustainable — Poly lumber is made from recycled materials, including post-consumer plastic bottles (like milk jugs or detergent bottles). They are decontaminated to a high purity level and compounded into a rigid material. The finished material is over 90% recycled plastic by weight.

Color Stable —  Poly lumber contains a UV-inhibited pigment that keeps the color of the finished product saturated and fights off fading.

Durable —  Different furniture materials are susceptible to wear and tear. Wood furniture will splinter and crack. The powder coating on aluminum furniture will begin to chip away. Metal furniture can rust. Polywood material, however, is extremely durable. Because it does not absorb moisture, it is resistant to cracking, peeling, and rotting.

Low Maintenance — Additionally, poly furniture is very low-maintenance.  There is no need for annual waterproofing, painting, or staining. All that is needed is periodic cleaning. Use a simple solution of 1/3 bleach and 2/3 water, with a soft brush or rag.

Color Choices — Polywood allows you to choose from numerous color options without ever having to do any painting yourself.  Choose a color that best represents your style, from neutral colors (grays, browns, black) to bright colors (yellows, purples, reds, greens).

Does Patio Furniture Need to Be Covered?

The easiest way to protect patio furniture is to remove it from the elements entirely.  However, if storage space is limited, covering your patio furniture if your next best option. A build-up of leaves and debris on your furniture creates a breeding ground for mildew and mold during the winter months. Additionally, you should protect your furniture from freezing temperatures and excess moisture.

Patio furniture covers are typically made of polyester and they are sold in sizes that fit round or rectangular dining tables and chairs, coffee tables, rocking chairs, chaise lounges, or entire sectionals. This simple step can extend the life of your furniture for years to come.

Upgrade Your Backyard Seating

View our inventory at our Glen Rock, PA and Finksburg, MD locations.

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Cherry Wood and Black Roll Back Pub Set Chair: 55″h x 30″w x 36″d, Table: 44″ diameter x 39″h

When you’re moving, there are plenty of things you’re ready to leave behind — unpleasant neighbors, living spaces that are too small, or your drafty basement. But, there are also things you don’t want to leave behind, including the shed, gazebo, swing set, or other outdoor structure that you love having in your backyard. With a little pre-planning and help from Penn Dutch Structures, outdoor structure relocation can easily be done, so you can enjoy them when you move into your new home as well.

Here is how you move a gazebo, shed, pergola or pavilion successfully to your new location.

1. Find Out If You Must Follow HOA Restrictions

Your first step is to find out if your new home is part of a Homeowners Association. If it is, you should look into the HOA bylaws to see if there are any restrictions on adding an outdoor structure to your property. Common HOA regulations concerning structures such as sheds, garages, gazebos, or swing sets include:

Size —

Size restrictions can limit the total square footage (ex: 150 sq ft.), dimensions (ex: 8’ x 10’), or percentage of land your structure covers (ex: no more than 1% of your property). Additionally, there may be maximum height limits for the side walls and roof.

Materials —

There may be limitations on the types of materials used in the construction of your shed or outdoor structure. Typically, wood, vinyl, or aluminum exteriors are acceptable, while all metal sheds usually are not permitted.

Appearance —

Depending on your HOA, there may also be regulations concerning the exterior colors, trim colors, roof shingles, and windows on your structure.  You may be required to match your home’s exterior (in color and architectural style) as closely as possible. If you do not need to match your home, you may be asked to stick to an approved color palette.

2. Look for Obstacles On Your Property

Before you schedule your outdoor structure relocation, do a quick assessment of your new property. Look for any obstacles in your front yard or side yard that would encumber the moving processes. Access to the final installation site must be clear of:

  • Narrow walkways or stairs
  • Fences
  • Shrubs or elaborate landscaping
  • Low-hanging tree branches or power lines

3. Build a Stable Base

When you’re moving a horse barn, garage, or wood/vinyl gazebo you’ll need to build a stable base that your structure will rest on. It’s recommended that you use a layer of crushed stone as your base. Crushed stone is sturdier and more stable than other options, which means your structure won’t shift on its foundation over time.

A proper base allows for drainage and prevents moisture from building up underneath your structure. As rain falls from the edge of your structure’s roof, it deflects off the ground and splashes onto the sidewalls of the shed, causing mold and rot over time. When you prepare a base using stone, water is absorbed into the ground instead of splashing against your building.

Prepare your base using a layer of stone that is 4″- 8″ deep and covers an area at least one foot larger than your building in all directions. For a 10’ x 14’ shed, you would need a 12’ x 16’ stone base.

4. Schedule Your Outdoor Structure Relocation

Contact Penn Dutch Structures to schedule a relocation date. They will request photos of the structure you need to move. Here are a few other requirements for moving a structure:

  • Your shed or gazebo will need to be emptied prior to relocation.
  • At both your current home and your new home, there will need to be clear access for a full-size pickup truck and trailer.
  • Structures that exceed 11’ tall will not be able to be relocated.

Are you planning a move?  Are you moving a shed, swing set, or other structure along with you? Trust Penn Dutch Structures for a safe and easy move. Contact us today.

Are you planning a move?

Are you moving a shed, swing set, or other structure along with you? Trust Penn Dutch Structures for a safe and easy move.

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Sheds have come a long way from the long-forgotten backyard buildings that held broken tools and dusty boxes. They are now becoming backyard showpieces designed with trendy colors, attractive windows and doors, and other unique accessories. These stylish shed designs have changed the way people, more specifically, women, are using their backyard sheds and have created a new trend — the she shed.

If you’re unfamiliar with a she shed, it’s essentially a man cave for women, located outdoors. While men have taken over basements and spare bedrooms all across America, women now have their own women caves, a space to spend personal time to unwind and destress, indulge in their favorite hobby, or run a home business.

Wondering what to do with a She Shed? Yoga, art, & photo studios are a few popular ideas for she sheds. You can also design a cozy reading nook with soft lights and comfy decor. As for she shed decorating ideas, the sky’s the limit! Just be sure you include heat/air/wifi for optimal comfort.

10 She Shed Ideas That Will Inspire

These ten inspiring she shed ideas from Penn Dutch Structures show you what’s possible when creating a woman cave that’s all your own.

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How Are You Using Your She Shed?

The purpose of your she shed will help you decide on the size, style, and design of the shed you purchase. 

  • An art or photo studio will require a lot of natural light. 
  • To create a gardening retreat, be sure to include a lot of storage and organization. 
  • Using a shed as a yoga studio will require open space and a higher ceiling. 
  • For a reading nook, add plenty of shelving for your growing library. 

Create A Style All Your Own

Your she shed should be designed to be a reflection of your personality — whether you’re bright and bold, soft and feminine, or playful and whimsical. When choosing a design for your woman cave, don’t be afraid to play around with colors, door and window styles, and roofing materials.

Additional she shed ideas include amping up the curb appeal of your shed with landscaping. An easy way to start is with a small flower garden along the front of your shed or window boxes under the windows. Placing an arbor over the doorway or along the side will bring you closer to nature as climbing plants and flowering vines grow within. To go above and beyond, add a small patio of stone pavers in front of your shed so that, as the weather allows, you can expand your useable space to include the outside.

Other Considerations When Buying a She Shed

Obtaining Permits — You may not be required to obtain a building permit since your she shed will most likely be arriving pre-built. However, you may need to inquire about homeowners association (HOA) standards or a zoning permit. A zoning permit ensures that your structure properly fits into your zoning district (single-family residential or multi-family residential) and meets requirements for setbacks, approved uses, height regulations, etc. A building permit, on the other hand, ensures that your structure meets building and safety codes.

Building a She Shed Base — Your shed will need to be installed on an appropriate base. Crushed stone is a great option for your she shed base because it’s a stable material that prevents foundation shifting and allows for proper drainage. Your shed base should be 1’ larger than your shed on all sides.

Insulation & Utilities — To enjoy as much time as possible in your outdoor woman cave and to create a comfortable environment, you’ll need to make some after-purchase upgrades. To protect yourself from cold weather, insulate your shed. Additionally, you can add electric, cable/internet, or plumbing connections so you have access to lighting, internet, and running water.

Have you been longing for a she shed?

Browse our entire selection of sheds, or contact us to experience & design your perfect shed.

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