Arrow Sheds Frequently Asked Questions
ARROW METAL STORAGE SHEDS
1.) Should I buy a metal storage shed?
Sheds made of metal are great because they won't rot, termites can't eat them, the sun can't destroy them, and are generally more affordable. Metal sheds are best located in wind protected areas of your home, due to being lighter weight they can be subject to damage caused by wind, therefore, it is highly recommended that you invest in earth or concrete anchors to securely attach your shed to your foundation.
Also you should avoid placing your shed in areas of high people activity, such as parties where they may run and play ball or throw objects that can dent or damage your metal shed. If you plan on storing heat sensitive objects, find a shady location to keep your shed out of the sun on those hot sunny days. For those who live in heavy snow areas locate your shed where it may be protected from heavy snowfall or drift roof loads, if it can't be avoided then there are Arrow Roof Strengthening Kits that can be purchased.
2.) What tools will I need to assemble my Arrow shed?
A cordless drill/screwdriver, duct tape (to temporarily hold loose parts together while you screw them together if you're by yourself), and a step ladder (or two if you have a helper) will also be helpful. ALSO AVOID ASSEMBLING YOUR SHED ON A WINDY DAY, check the weather report before commencing. Lastly, a shed can be assembled by one person but having two will make the task much easier and more enjoyable.
3.) Is a foundation included in the shed kit?
No, but first and foremost the foundation should at least cover the "footprint" of your selected shed, the foundation surface absolutely needs to be "level" and "square" for your shed to assemble correctly (for screw holes to match up, doors to open/close or slide correctly). There are several methods of laying a foundation; they can be made of concrete (with rebar to prevent cracking or crumbling), Wood framed ("pressure treated" is preferred to reduce chance of rot), Arrow has metal foundations that you can lay plywood on, check availability with the shed you are interested in. Lastly, you can use "used plastic pallets" which come in many dimensions (prices can range from $20 to $50 each, select ones that have more solid surface area and less holes) see image below, this makes it easier to screw down your plywood floor boards and offers more structural support), level the dirt and use small or medium gravel (optional) as a barrier from the dirt, lay the pallets in your preferred dimensions, Paint "quality" grade 1/2" to 3/4" thick plywood (use thicker plywood if you have 10" or more gap between pallets) with "quality" outdoor primer sealer to protect the plywood from water and moisture, be sure to place extra coats on the plywood edges to prevent water penetration and avoiding separation of the layers of the plywood. Attach the boards to the pallets with screws all the while making sure they are level and square to your shed's dimensions. Pallets will never rot, be eaten, or break, just be sure to get the appropriate load bearing for your application. You can countersink the pallets into the ground so that your shed is level with the ground (Screw (use stainless steel screws) composite deck boards around the pallet edges to prevent small animals from digging underneath your shed to make their home) or lay the pallets directly the leveled ground, you may need a ramp at your shed's entry to get heavier items up into your shed. Finally for purposes of aesthetics screw composite patio deck boards around the exposed pallet edges (use stainless steel screws to avoid rust, be sure to take measurements of deck board width and pallet thickness, this also prevents little animals from making a home under your shed, Skunks love digging or living under sheds.
4.) How difficult is it to assemble an Arrow shed?
If you can assemble a 10-speed bicycle or a full size barbeque odds are very good you can put together an Arrow shed. A shed is not technically difficult to assemble but it does have a lot of parts, and the parts do need to be oriented correctly and put together in the proper order, following instructions step by step and having patience is key. As for time it will take to complete the assembly it will depend on the size of the shed and if you have help from a friend, expect assembly time from 4 hrs. to a full day, please also note that this does not include the time it will take to prepare your foundation and flooring.
5.) Will I need a permit for my shed?
Generally no, but inquire with your neighbors who have a shed to find out if they needed a permit. It would be best to inquire with your city's building/planning department to see if they have property line setback requirements for your foundation/shed or if you plan to have an electrical line placed for lighting or outlets in or around your shed. It would be also wise to talk with your neighbor to see if they have any objections to having your shed near your property line, if you don't ask and they get upset they can make your life miserable by reporting you to the city and you don't want that.