Question 1

What is a good slope for a shed roof?

Accepted Answer

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The most common slope, or roof pitch, for a shed is 4:12 or four inches of height for every horizontal foot. For areas that experience heavy snow loads, a steeper roof of 6:12 or 9:12 is best.

Question 2

What size of barn can I build without planning permission?

Accepted Answer

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It is recommended that you check with your local building official on barn building requirements and rules, since size restrictions vary greatly from region to region based on what your property is zoned for. Some cities limit barn construction depending on if your property is residential or commercial. The three main factors your building commission will evaluate are:

Height and lot coverage: How tall your barn is and how much of your total property it occupies
Setback: Distance between barn and property line
Easement: Legal right for another owner to access another’s property

Height and lot coverage: How tall your barn is and how much of your total property it occupies
Setback: Distance between barn and property line
Easement: Legal right for another owner to access another’s property

Question 3

What is the simplest house to build?

Accepted Answer

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Building a tiny house is the least complicated way to build, especially if you’re tackling the project as a DIY. The smaller size means less complex plans, more straightforward utility installation, and fewer ways to make costly errors. Tiny homes still need to conform to building codes and often have other applicable regulations, so be sure to get the proper permits and confirm your build is by the book.

Question 4

Which is better for my shed, a flat roof or a sloped roof?

Accepted Answer

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Whether you should choose a flat roof or a sloped roof depends on your particular situation. Flat roofs tend to be less expensive to install. However, sloped roofs have longer lifespans and stand up better to heavy snow and other inclement weather.

Keep in mind that even a flat roof needs to have a slight slope, usually around 1/2 inch for every foot. If it is completely flat, water will pool and cause damage, either from weight or leakage or rot.

Question 5

Is it more affordable to build a playground or buy one?

Accepted Answer

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Whether building a playground or installing a pre-made one is more affordable depends on the materials of each. In most cases, it’s more affordable to build a wooden playground than it is to buy one and have it professionally installed, but it might be less expensive to invest in a pre-made plastic playground, even if you pay a professional to install it. Wooden playgrounds tend to last longer, but as children age, they will become less valuable. Overall, it may be most affordable to have a pro install a pre-made plastic playground.