Are you ready to usher in a change and reshuffle the layout of your backyard? Perhaps, you’re planning to create a more functional space or just want to give your yard a fresh, new look. Whatever the reason, this article is just what you need! Get all the guidance you need to safely move or relocate your storage shed. This super helpful guide will walk you through the steps, offering key insights, and making the task as smooth as possible. With the right know-how, maneuvering your storage shed can be much less daunting and you’ll be surprised at what you can accomplish by yourself!
Assess the Storage Shed
Before you set out to move your storage shed, the first step should be a thorough assessment of the structure itself. This process will aid you in planning the subsequent phases of your move.
Identify the building materials
Recognize what materials were used to construct your shed. It could be settled on wood, metal, plastic, or a combination of these materials. Knowing the building materials will not only help in estimating the total weight of the shed but also help determine the best equipment and techniques for your move.
Estimate the weight of the shed
Weight estimation is essential when moving a shed. While a professional moving company might be able to provide a definitive weight, you can also make an educated guess based on the building materials and the size of the shed. This information is crucial for ensuring you arrange for the right type of equipment and tools.
Examine overall structural integrity
Take note of any damages, weaknesses, or instability in the shed. It is advisable to fix any issues that could potentially lead to collapse or breakage during the move. Remember, the moving process will stress the structure of your shed so ensure it is sound enough to withstand the transfer.
Preparation Before Moving
Now that you’ve assessed your shed, you can kickstart your preparation. Remember, proper preparation can make the process smoother and more manageable.
Clear the surroundings
Begin by clearing the area around of your shed. Get rid of any debris, vegetation, or obstacles that may hinder the move. An open and clear vicinity will not only make the move easier but safer as well.
Empty the shed
Before you start moving the shed, ensure you’ve emptied it completely. Any items left inside the shed can add unnecessary weight and may cause damage during relocation. So, it’s best to empty the shed and have its contents stored safely elsewhere until the move is over.
Disconnect utilities
If your shed is wired with electricity or connected to other utilities, this is the time to disconnect. For this task, you should consider hiring a professional if you are not comfortable doing it on your own.
Arrange for Required Tools and Equipment
Having the right tools at your disposal can make a world of difference when it comes to moving your shed.
Rent or purchase moving equipment
Depending on the weight of your shed, you may need special equipment such as a dolly, flatbed truck, or even a crane. You’d need to either rent such equipment or hire a professional moving company.
Secure necessary tools
In addition to moving equipment, you might require other tools such as wrenches, hammers, and chisels for dismantling certain parts of the shed or creating an access point.
Safety gear and requirements
Always prioritize safety during your move. Hard hats, gloves, steel-toed boots, safety glasses, and high-visibility clothing are some of the things you might need. It’s always better to be safe than sorry.
Creating Access Points
To move your storage shed successfully, you need to have clear and unobstructed access points.
Remove or trim obstacles
If there are sizeable obstacles in the path like large trees or rocks, these will need to be removed. Similarly, you should trim down any overgrown shrubs or tree branches that could hinder the move.
Consider the need for ramps
If your final location is elevated, you may need ramps to move your shed. Ramps will make it easier to guide the shed to its new home.
Clear the path to the final location
The path between the current location of your shed and its final destination should be clear of any hindrances. This pre-emptive measure can prevent any unnecessary obstacles on moving day.
Plan the Move Day
Once your access paths are clear and your equipment is ready, you should be able to finalize your moving day.
Monitor weather forecasts
Opt for a day that offers clear skies and calm winds. It’s not safe or convenient to move the shed during conditions like rain or snow as it increases the risk of damages and accidents.
Allocate enough time
Have a realistic estimate of how much time you’ll need to complete the process. Remember, it’s always better to have more time than you need than to be in a rush.
Arrange for help or professional movers
Moving a shed is not a one-person job. Ensure you have enough helping hands or consider engaging professional movers to make the process smoother and safer.
Lifting the Shed
When it comes to lifting the shed off the ground, you need to be extremely careful.
Methods to lift a shed
You can use tools like hydraulic jacks, lever bars, or rollers for lifting the shed. Be sure to spread the load evenly to avoid damaging the shed’s structure.
Positioning of hydraulic jacks or other lifting tools
Place your jacks or other lifting tools under sturdy parts of the shed. The placement should focus on structural nodes like cross-beams to distribute the weight evenly.
Balancing the shed carefully
Take the time to ensure that your shed is balanced evenly on the jacks or the lifting equipment before you start moving it.
Moving the Shed
Once the shed is elevated, you can begin moving it towards its new location.
Positioning the shed on the moving equipment
Slide the shed onto the moving equipment, ensuring even distribution of weight.
Guiding the shed to the final location
Slowly and carefully start guiding the shed along the predetermined and cleared path. It is always a good idea to have someone guiding the process and communicative to all involved.
Navigating through turns and obstacles
Watch out for unexpected hurdles, narrow passages, or bends on the path. Navigate with caution and use someone’s help to guide through these spots.
Lowering and Placement of the Shed
Upon reaching your destination, it’s time to lower your shed onto its new spot.
Deciding the final orientation
Establish the final orientation of the shed before lowering it down. It can be a real pain having to reposition the shed after you already put it down.
Slow and careful lowering
Lower the shed slowly and carefully, ensuring there is an even distribution of weight to prevent any damages or tip-overs.
Ensuring the shed is level
Once the shed is on the ground, use a construction level to ensure it’s properly aligned. A level shed is crucial for structural integrity.
Post Moving Inspections
After moving and placing the shed, don’t forget to carry out post-moving inspections.
Inspect for potential damages
Check for any signs of damage that might have occurred during the move. Look out for cracks, gaps, or warping in the shed walls or floor.
Assess the stability of the shed
Take note of the stability of the shed in its new location. Ensure it’s secure and not at risk of tipping over.
Reconnect utilities if necessary
Reconnect any utilities that were disengaged during the moving process.
Final Touches
The shed has been relocated, and you’re almost done. Now, it’s just about the finishing touches.
Repairs or improvements to the shed
If you notice any damages or just want to upgrade your shed a little, now might be the perfect time.
Landscape alterations
Once the shed is in place, you might need to alter the surroundings to fit the shed, like paving a path or creating a garden around it.
Usability check and re-organizing the shed contents
Finally, before you move your items back into the shed, do a usability check to ensure all doors open properly and shelves are firmly in place. It’s also an excellent opportunity to clean and organize your shed for a fresh start.