Are you looking to maximize storage space on your property?
It’s no secret lots are getting smaller these days. Recent studies show that 66% of homes being built are on less than one fifth of an acre lot sizes. Many people are having to learn how to deal with less space.
Unfortunately, traditional portable storage buildings take up valuable ground space. That’s a big problem if you don’t have much ground space to spare.
The solution?
Clever property owners are finding ways to build up instead of out. Let’s talk about 2 story sheds. These vertical storage spaces are perfect for small lots. They help owners overcome limited yard space and still provide plenty of storage.
Ready to learn more?
You will learn:
- Why Lot Sizes Are Small
- Multi-Level Storage Is Becoming Popular
- Why Building Up Makes Sense
- Features of a Two Story Shed
- Deciding if Your Lot Needs a 2 Story Shed
Why Lot Sizes Continue to Decrease
Quarter acre lots are becoming a thing of the past.
Data from the Census Bureau indicates small residential lots have increased from 48% of homes between 2005 and 2024. Developers are focusing on building as many houses as possible on limited land.
Smaller lots = less room for everything.
Storage is one of the first things people sacrifice when their lot size is limited. The average size for a new lot is now just under 1/5 acre. If you do the math, that’s around 8,500 square feet to fit your home, driveway, lawn, and storage.
Enter the traditional shed.
Most portable storage buildings come in sizes ranging from 100-200 square feet. That might not sound like a lot, but on a small property it could take up your entire backyard. When you’re already struggling to fit everything, that’s not ideal.
Two Story Storage Is Becoming More Popular
Hold on tight. There’s a solution.
Increasingly savvy homeowners have realized they don’t have to spread out. They can build upwards instead.
Double decker portable storage buildings give you twice the storage capacity for the same footprint. Literally. That 10×12 ft footprint that used to give you 120 square feet of storage now provides 240.
Exactly!
Demand for vertical storage options is skyrocketing. Recent market analysis revealed a 20% growth rate in vertical storage demand from urban areas. Consumers have caught on.
Here’s the math:
- Same footprint
- Twice the storage space
- More space left on your property
It really is that simple.
Reasons Why You Should Build Up With Storage
There are many benefits of using vertical storage on small lots. Let’s walk through a few of them.
You Gain More Usable Space
If you’re like most homeowners with limited land, you already feel like you have none to spare.
Two stories allow you to hold onto as much of your yard as possible. Rather than taking up space with a bulky shed, you gain room for outdoor living.
Your outdoor space is your sanctuary. Don’t feel like you have to give it up to have some storage.
Makes Organizing Easy
Separation is king when it comes to staying organized.
A two-story storage building naturally creates two distinct areas for you to store items. Heavy things like equipment and lawn mowers on the ground floor. Holiday decorations and seasonal stuff upstairs.
Accessories stay neatly separated and you don’t have to dig through everything to find what you need.
Can Add Value to Your Property
Not only do outdoor storage buildings provide storage, they can offer additional living space too.
Think workshops, home offices, hobby spaces, and more. Not only can you use your storage building(s) to get organized, but they act as an extension of your home.
Any structure that increases usability can raise your property value when it’s time to sell.
Better Protection From the Elements
Most two-story options come with steeper rooflines.
This allows rain and snow to roll right off the roof instead of pooling on flat surfaces. Your items will stay drier and be protected from moisture in the long-run.
Features You’ll Want Your Two Story Shed to Have
When it comes to vertical storage, not all options were created equal.
Here are some things to take into consideration when selecting your next storage building.
Make Sure it’s Built Well
You are going vertically with storage. As such, the foundation and frame need to be built to withstand the extra stress.
Ensure your chosen shed has:
- Reinforced floor joists
- Correct load bearing walls
- High quality roofing
- Strong foundation prerequisites
Trust me. You don’t want to scrimp on build quality only to have your shed start leaning towards your house.
Consider How You’ll Access the Second Story
Do you plan on using a ladder to gain access to your upper level storage?
While some two-story storage buildings come with interior stairs, others will require you to get creative. There are even exterior staircase options available for those who want them.
Ensure you’re able to access your second floor comfortably and safely.
Check With Your Local Authorities
This tip can’t be stressed enough.
Call your local municipality to check on zoning restrictions. Many areas will have strict regulations when it comes to:
- Height restrictions
- Setbacks from property lines
- Permit and approval requirements
- How much of your lot can be covered by structures
You don’t want to order that gorgeous two-story shed only to find out it can’t be placed where you need it to go.
Look for Customization Potential
No two property owners have the exact same storage needs.
When researching your options, look for companies that offer customizable features. Windows, doors, interior layouts, and exterior materials. The more options your manufacturer offers, the better you can tailor your shed to your needs.
Deciding if You Need a 2 Story Shed on Your Property
Like most questions in life, the answer lies in the details.
Here are some questions to ask yourself when trying to decide:
- How much ground coverage can you afford to lose?
- What will you need to store?
- Do you want the space to serve as anything else?
- What is your budget?
If you’re on a small lot, a 2 story shed is almost always the right answer. Sure, you’ll pay a bit more upfront. However, you make up for it by gaining precious storage space. Not to mention, you keep your yard free for living.
Wrap Up
Small lots are a reality many homeowners face these days.
Fortunately, they don’t have to limit your storage capacity. By thinking vertically, owners are finding ways to keep their yards free of bulky storage buildings. Two story sheds are the perfect option if you want maximum storage with a limited footprint.
Let’s recap:
- Most new homes are being built on smaller lots
- Ground level storage takes up too much space
- Two stories will double your storage capacity
- Not all two-story storage options are built the same
- Check your local zoning laws
Interested in learning more about vertical storage? Give us a call or shoot us an email. We’d love to help you keep your yard clutter-free.
