Four Ways A Two-Story Double Garage Will Enhance Your Home

Garages used to be a place that people stored and worked on their cars and not much else. But, that's not the case anymore, these days, garages are an extension of the home. A two-story double garage has so many uses beyond parking your car that it might just surprise you. The second floor could be converted into a video game room for the kids, a workshop, office or even a living space, and the list goes on.

Create Your Own Work Space

In most homes, it's hard to find the space to work on crafts, art or other projects from start to finish. If you're lucky, you'll be able to carve out a place in the basement where it's dark and cold. But the reality is you're not going to be inspired to get started and you certainly won't want to stay for long. You'll be much more creative and productive if you have your own private studio to work in. Plus, when you're finished for the day, you can leave everything right where it is so you can pick up where you left off.

A Quiet, Private Home Office

Whether you just need a place to balance your checkbook and pay your bills, or you work at home, you need a quiet place. It's nearly impossible to keep facts and figures straight with the television blaring, the kids hollering and the dog running around. Besides that, it's incredibly easy to lose an important document in all the chaos. With a private office that's separate from the rest of the home, you can rest assured that all your paperwork stays in order and that you'll stay focused.

Create Extra Living Space

In today's economic climate, it's common for adult children and their spouses to move in with mom and dad. Moving into their old bedroom might seem like a great idea, but, it's not quite the same as when they were a kid. Back then, you wanted to hear everything that was going on so you could assure their safety. As an adult though, privacy is incredibly important for them and you. Converting the second floor of your garage into an efficiency apartment is a great way to help them out without giving up any of your own space.

A Recreation Room for the Kids

Kids love to play air hockey or video games, but when they are with their friends things can get rowdy. And listening to all those noises can drive a parent crazy, after a while. Unless you've got sound proof walls, or they're wearing headphones, there's no way to avoid it. Or is there? The room above your new garage can be used for just that. There they can get as loud as they want and you will always know where to find them!

These are just a few of the ways that a two-story double garage can be used to enhance your home. We're quite sure you've got some fantastic ideas yourself. However, if you would like some more ideas, or if you have any questions, contact us . We'll be more than happy to help you.

The Dangers of Burning Wet Wood and Why You Need A Firewood Shed

Burning wood can be a cheap and efficient way to heat your home if done correctly, but burning wood that has not been properly dried and stored can be dangerous to your home, your family's health, and you wallet. There are numerous dangers involved in burning wet wood, listed below are a few of the top issues.

Burning Wet Wood Contributes to Chimney Fires

When wood is burned it releases hydrocarbon gases. Once heated to around 1100 degrees F, the gases mix with air and catch fire. When the fire in your fireplace smolders, unburned gases condense and deposit in the flue where they harden and turn to creosote. A cold flue and wet wood encourage this condensation. If this creosote catches fire, it can burn with so much intensity that the mortar will crumble and balls of flaming creosote will shoot out of the top of the chimney. In severe cases, the masonry in the chimney can expand with such force that sections of the chimney will blow out and explode into the home. 

Burning Wet Wood Can Create Health Problems

Burning wet wood creates far more smoke than burning wood that has been properly dried. Fine particles in the smoke enter your lungs and can cause heart and breathing problems. Children and older adults are most at risk. In fact, studies have shown that people who heat their homes with wood have more breathing problems than people who do not. Children in wood burning homes are also more likely to exhibit lung and breathing problems. 

Burning Wet Wood Actually Costs More Than Properly Dried Wood

When you add a wet piece of wood to your fire, the water in the wood turns to steam as it heats up. This steam mixes with the exhaust gas and extinguishes the secondary burn. This effect will actually cut your heat output by up to 50%. The result is you are forced to use more wood in an attempt to heat your home comfortably.

Burning wet wood is dangerous to your health and home. Wood should be stored for at least six months or ideally a year to be dry enough to burn properly. Dry wood creates a hotter fire with less work and less wood. The best way to properly dry wood is to use a firewood shed. A shed allows you to keep your wood dry and allows a large enough place to store cut firewood for at least six months. 

To find a firewood shed that is both useful and attractive, contact us. Our friendly staff will help you choose a shed that will keep your firewood dry and allow for maximum fireplace efficiency.

Attached vs. Detached Garages: The Great Debate

Short and sweet: here are six ways detached garages are a better idea. 

• Burglars beware: detached garages are less of a security threat. Not that we are hoping this happens, but if a burglar breaks into your garage They can't, necessarily, break into your home as well. If your garage is attached to the house, that left over thanksgiving turkey is looking pretty temping. 

• We all know it, exhaust gas and oil fumes aren't good for you. Keep those smells away from the house. If not, you may be dreaming of oil cans instead of sugar plums. 

• Privacy is a good thing. With a detached garage you can keep your man cave/workshop away from the house. Your wife will appreciate not hearing the game while she's cooking. 

• Trying to add an apartment? It's easier to add it over a detached garage. Plus, if it's not attached to the house it will be easier to rent it out when you're not using it. 

• The last and sweetest part of the deal: usually it is easier to obtain a permit for a detached structure. This can vary by state, but we have lots of resources to make getting your permits easier. 

Depending on the size of your lot, you could be limited as to how big an attached garage can be. For this reason, a detached garage on the back of your property might make better sense. In many cases, you also can build a larger structure, without compromising the look of your house. 

These are only a few solid reasons. We could go on for days why detached garages are far superior to attached garages, but if you want to hear more of them, give us a call. Contact us..

What You Didn't Know About Detached Garages and Your Homeowner's Insurance

Today's detached garages are often beautifully, carefully crafted structures that families use for extra storage space, a home office, or even just extra room for the kids to play. With endless options including a single car garden A frame garage, 2 story single car garages, doublewide garages, and mega garages there is a perfect garage for whatever your needs. Many people meticulously plan their new garage, choosing the correct siding, selecting windows, and dreaming of intricately designed carriage style garage doors. However, there is one vital detail that is often over looked. Consumers often make the devastating mistake of assuming their new structure is automatically covered under their homeowner's insurance policy. 

Your homeowner's insurance policy will most often divide your property coverage into two categories, the dwelling and other structures. Coverage for the dwelling cover's one's home and attached structures. Generally, if a structure on the property shares a foundation with the main home, then it is covered under this portion of the policy. 

Homeowner's insurance companies define other structures as all other buildings on a property that do not share a foundation with the main home. This would include detached garages and storage sheds. The most important note to remember about this type of coverage is that standard policies generally only provide 10% of the dwelling insurance coverage. This means that if your home is insured for $150,000, then your other structures coverage could be as little at $15,000. 

When designing your ideal detached garage, it is important to discuss possible replacement costs with your builder. They are experts in the field that can help guide you in the amount of insurance that would adequately cover any possible damage and replacement of your detached garage. A thorough review with your insurance agent can help determine your coverage and assist you in adding the necessary coverage as needed. 

Contact us for assistance in selecting the perfect detached garage for your needs. Our friendly and helpful staff is proud to offer the best selection of hand-made garages by the best Amish craftsmen. They understand the importance of selecting a functional, aesthetically pleasing detached garage as well as ensuring your structure is protected for the future. 

Five Questions To Ask About Storage Garages For Sale

There are a lot of things to consider when adding a storage garage to your property. Chances are, you are not an expert in storage garages and you need a little guidance. When looking at storage garages for sale, here are five things that you should ask the seller.

1. Are You The Manufacturer? Very often, companies that sell storage garages are not the actual manufacturer, they are simply a vendor. Purchasing from an authorized dealer can cost you a substantial amount more. Dealers add a premium to everything that they sell in order to cover their expenses for employees, insurance, transportation and a myriad of other expenses. When you buy from the manufacturer directly, you eliminate the middle-man, and that means saving big money. With fewer additional expenses, they can afford to offer you a better price without having to “put it on sale” to do so.
2. What Options Are Available? In order to assure that your new storage garage compliments rather than detracts from your home, you want to have options. Although the size and basic shape of the garage may suit your needs, there are other important things to consider. The style of the building, type of exterior finish, door styles and sizes, number, size and style of windows, loft space and insulation are just some of the things to consider.
3. Is Site Preparation Included? A flat, level area that has been properly prepared is extremely important for the longevity of your garage. Most times, this is not included in the price or service that is offered.If you are responsible for preparing the site, including pouring the concrete pad for the structure, you'll have to plan well in advance. As this is a very important part of the process, you may want to consider hiring a professional to do the prep work for you to assure the site is ready on time.
4. How Will It Be Delivered/Installed? Some companies will only deliver a pre-made structure to your location once you've prepared the site. This can put you in a slightly sticky position if there is not enough clearance for the truck and trailer to get in because of neighboring structures, trees or other obstacles. If this is the case for your property, a company that is able and willing to build the garage for you on-site is a better option. Often, the price will be higher due to the additional employees and work that is required.
5. Is There A Guarantee Of Quality? Good workmanship is the hallmark of a trustworthy and long-lived organization. The types of materials that are used along with the construction practices should come with a guarantee that covers defects or other issues. Carefully consider the guarantee and what it covers before making any decisions. The last thing that you want is to run into a situation where a faulty roof or inadequate framing job results in damage to your property. Get the guarantee in writing and hold them to it should you encounter a problem.
   
   

A storage garage is a major investment for your home and property and you should never settle for less than what you want and need. By asking the questions above, you'll be a step closer to finding the ultimate solution to your storage problems. If you want to learn more, contact us. We're always happy to help homeowners find the best storage garage solutions for their specific needs.

5 Double Garage Trends Coming in 2015 You Should Consider

Many of today's home designs feature street-facing double garages, which means that a high percentage of the curb appeal comes from whatever is covering that space. The latest trend is to upgrade garage doors from the typical white raised panel with ones that feature unique patterns, colors, and windows. The trends coming next year might just surprise you.

1. Bigger is better. Face it, garages are getting built bigger, wider, and taller all the time. Whether you are building or renovating, a big door makes a statement and also has the ability to accommodate whatever vehicle you wish to contain behind it. 

2. Garage doors as statement pieces. As we mentioned above, a bigger door makes it own statement, but so can smaller doors. They can actually make quite a bold statement about your house just by changing the type of door you have, choosing arched windows, or adding a coat of paint other than a standard color. Consider a door with bronzed aluminum and glass or flush steel doors in get-your-attention colors. You could upgrade your vintage look with a custom design that sets your house apart from the others.

3. Let the colors shine in 2015. Why should front doors have all the fun? They stopped being white years ago. Most color palettes are offered as a no-cost option on many different designs so why not let your garage reflect your style-- whether that be traditional sandstone, bold black, or every color in between.

4. Go with the grain. Did you know that you can get woodgrain paint in a variety of tones? Make the most of a resilient steel door by adding the beauty and strength that looks like real wood. 

5. Let technology open doors. You are aware that most doors can be opened and closed straight from your cellphone or laptop with an app? No more worrying over giving out a code or sharing keys. Most garage doors can be checked from anywhere in the world, regardless of how far from home you are. New garage door openers now include battery backup, quiet belt drives, door monitors, and side-belt installation,  guaranteeing you quick and quiet access to your garage is only a button press away.

As you can see, what 2015 will show us in garage door trends is turning what used to be an eyesore into a work of art, increasing the value of your home while making a statement of its own, and quite possibly giving you the edge on your neighborhood competition. To discuss your specific needs or to connect with a qualified agent, feel free to contact us anytime.

Thinking About a Storage Unit? There Are Other Options.

Space, it's an unending issue. If you're like us, we accumulate things, and those things can sometimes take over our living spaces. Is your guest room starting to look more like a storage facility than a place for incoming guests to sleep? Have you considered renting a storage unit so you don't have to get rid of your childhood memories, well here are the five best things about choosing a garage for storage, instead.

• Renting vs. Buying: Renting a storage unit is expensive. Storage units can cost anywhere from one-hundred dollars a month up to three-hundred dollars a month or more depending on the amount of space you need. Sure, this will help you declutter your spare bedroom, but as far as we are concerned it seems like a big waste of money. In under a year on what you might be paying for your storage unit you'd be able to afford a beautifully crafted storage space for your own property. 
• Investment: Building a detached storage unit on your property can actually raise your property value. Consider it an investment that you can use. 
• Aesthetically pleasing: Property storage used to be all about function. How many times have you seen those one-toned rectangle buildings on properties and wondered what the homeowners were thinking? Thankfully that's all a thing of the past. Now you can pick the look that best suits not only your space needs but the way you want your property to look, from barn style buildings and garden sheds to modern and elegant spaces.
• Multipurpose: Not only can you extend your storage space but the possibilities are endless. Have you ever wanted a wood shop, or a place to tinker with an old car? Or are you interested in having a real home office not just your laptop on the kitchen table. With the options available on storage garages for sale there is almost no limit to what you can do, set aside half to clear out your clutter and turn the other half into the sports bar you always wished you had.
• Affordability: There are multiple financing options for you to choose from, that offer affordable options. From bank backed financing, to rent-to-own programs. If you're currently just paying the rent on a storage unit, you really can't afford not to consider a permanent storage garage instead.

 

To talk more about this, or anything else, please Contact Us. Thanks.

Why Every Man Needs One... A Man Cave

Although they might not admit to the fact, the majority of men would love to have a personal space to call their own. A place where they can put up their own decor, have a comfy chair, and be free to be their manly selves.

The lady of the house usually has dominance when it comes to design, and decoration, which is why the "man cave" is quickly becoming a very popular trend. The idea of having a retreat has many advantages to the average male. It gives them a place to spend time alone, enjoy hobbies, and watch sporting events with their male counterparts.

Psychologists say that a man cave can actually help to keep a marriage on the right track, by providing a much needed break from stressful surroundings. In a way, it's a way for married men to recreate their long lost carefree days of bachelorhood. 

Man caves are often just patched up basements or garages with harsh, fluorescent lights, and a lack of heat or air conditioning. Not the most welcoming of spaces, especially with garbage, and holiday decorations being stored nearby.

More suitable options are available, with much more thought to design, and functionality. Without spending all that much money, a prefabricated man cave can be the perfect way to build an oasis away from home, while still being within the premises.

From fancy upscale sports-themed furnishings, to just a simple recliner, and a homemade bar, your own manspace can be filled with what you love, and be an expression of who you are. If you'd like more information on man caves, please feel free to contact us.

Winterizing Your Storage Shed

Most owners wouldn't think to winterize their Storage Sheds, but taking the time to do so will increase its longevity. Whether your shed will stand idle or be used during the winter season, it is important to prepare for the harsh weather ahead. The more you do, the better your storage shed will withstand the elements and you will avoid any damage that could result. Here is a helpful check list.

Clean

Cleaning the interior is a good place to begin. Empty the shed. This makes it easier to clean away debris, cobwebs, and insect homes that may have accumulated during the summer. Prepare your summer tools for winter.

• Clean gardening hand tools. Store them in plastic totes to keep them clean and ready for spring.
• Drain water out of hoses.
• Empty gas and oil from lawn mowers, leaf blowers, and trimmers.
• Cover lawn mowers with tarp to keep off dust and moisture.
• Secure electrical cords to any electrical tools so they do not get wound around other items or get stepped on.
• Store any unused potting soil, grass seed, fertilizer, and mulch in plastic totes to keep rodents from using them for nests.
• Any item that cannot handle freezing temperatures should be stored in a heated garage or basement.
• Throw away anything you no longer need or use. Contact your local disposal company for proper removal of paint, thinners, and oil.

Inspect and Repair Interior

• After you empty the shed, inspect the walls, floors, and ceiling for weakened and damaged areas.
• Check behind and around shelving, hooks, and other wall hangings for hidden weak spots. Test wall hanging supports for durability.
• Focus on seams to make sure there is no separation or holes.
• Examine seals around windows and doors. Shrunken caulk and cracked weatherstripping will let in cold air and moisture, so it should be replaced.
• Replace any broken window panes.
• Check door hinges and openers. Give them a squirt of oil to keep them functioning smoothly in cold weather.
• Repair all damaged areas. You may consider painting the walls for an additional barrier against moisture. 
• Wet winter tools can cause water damage to shed floors. Waterproofing the floor will increase its lifespan.

Inspect and Repair Exterior

• Inspect the exterior for holes and weak spots.
• Examine the roof for weak areas and leaks.
• Reattach curled back shingles with asphalt roof cement.
• Replace torn, rotten, or missing shingles.
• Clean out gutters and downspouts.
• Reinforce loose boards and replace rusted nails.
• Trim away overhanging tree branches as they can cause problems when weighed down by snow and ice.
• If painting, rent a power washer to remove peeling paint. This will save you time and energy so you won't have to scrape. Allow at least 2 days for the shed to dry before painting.

Using your shed during the winter? Move all summer items to the farthest end of the shed. Keep winter tools such as snow blowers, shovels, ice scrapers, electrical chargers, and salt, sand, or grit in easy reach near the door. You may wish to use your shed during the winter for hobbies or other projects. In this case, you should insulate and add a heating source to keep warm.

Winterizing you storage shed may seem like a lot of work, but it will pay off when spring arrives and your shed and belongings are safe and undamaged. For more information contact us.

Detached Garages: New Trends in Automatic Door Openers

Owners of both attached and detached garages can benefit from an automatic garage door opener. Openers are convenient and new trends in the manufacturing of these devices are making them more efficient, safer, and Eco-friendly. 

Direct Current (D/C) motor automatic garage door openers are currently gaining popularity primarily because they are ultra-quiet. This is important for owners of homes with attached garages as the unit cannot be heard inside the house. Owners of detached garages which have second story apartments or work spaces also like its silence. D/C openers are manufactured using fewer parts than other openers so there is less to break down over time, which invariably saves you money. Vibration is practically nonexistent resulting in reduced wear and tear on the doors. Most of the D/C openers have speed variations that can raise garage doors as much as 12 inches per second. D/C openers are strong enough to lift heavy, insulated doors and wooden single, double, and sectional doors that have absorbed the extra weight of moisture from rain and snow. These units are also reliable and energy efficient.

Alternate Current (A/C) motor automatic garage door openers are considered to be the best opener by the garage door industry. They are driven by a steel reinforced belt which is virtually silent and maintenance free. The A/C motor automatic garage door openers are more expensive than chain and screw openers, however, for heavy use they are worth the cost. Their rugged reliability and optimal performance guarantees your garage door will open regardless of the weather.

Security is an important issue, especially for detached garage owners who have their buildings situated far back on their property. Whether you keep tools, gardening equipment, sporting equipment, recreational vehicles, or restored cars in your detached garage, you want to know they are secure from theft. Vacation lock down insures your possessions will remain safely behind your garage door. This feature also works on your remote, so if your car is broken into or stolen, the thief is deterred from opening your garage doors. Have you ever left home and couldn't remember if you closed your garage door? Have you been in a hurry and couldn't wait for the door to close before you left? You can have peace of mind with high-tech remotes that let you know if your garage door is opened or closed. Safety goes one step further with state-of-the-art remotes that send a new code to the unit with every use, so the code cannot be duplicated for unauthorized entry. 

Other new trends in automatic garage door openers include:

• Repair alert.
• Remote light with time delay.
• Audio and visual warnings that door is about to close.
• Units mount on wall or ceiling.
• Controls have become larger, illuminated, and are clearly marked.
• Wireless, keyless entry allows you to program your own 4-digit pin number and can control up to 3 different garage doors.
• Automatic battery backups.

Wireless technology improvements let you connect your Smartphone to monitor and control your garage door opener. The opener will even turn your home lights on and off. Through your Smartphone you can receive email or text alerts on the status of your garage door and home lighting. 

With all the new security features of modern automatic garage door openers you can feel assured that your detached garage is well protected. Let us assist you in choosing the right doors for your detached garage. Contact us for the latest styles available.

How To Shed Your Shed

Your trusty backyard shed has been through the ringer since it was built 20+ years ago. Between the weather and the kids, you're not really sure how it is still standing. But you have decided it is finally time to move on, and you are ready to replace it with a sturdy and more modern model. You could make it a hefty DIY project, but without the proper knowledge, tools, and resources to dismantle and haul away the debris you could end up really hurting yourself. 

There are many factors that go into determining the cost to remove a storage shed from your property. 

Depending on the company you use, they could charge by the hour or by the square foot. 

Determining factors include:

>What condition the shed is in. 

>What materials the shed is made of.

>How easily accessible the shed is for the demolition as well as the haul away. 

>If the shed needs to be detached from a concrete slab.

>If there is any electrical wiring that needs to be disconnected.

>If your area requires any demolition permits.

A simple 10x7 shed could run you $500-$700 for the total demolition and haul away. That's without any hiccups.

So you can not do it by yourself, and the estimates you are getting just seem too outrageous. You do have a third option. Since you are replacing your old shed with a new one, go with a company like Stoltzfus Structures that has a trade-in program. You purchase your new shed from them, they remove your old one, and then install your new one.  

You do have options when it's time to replace your old backyard shed. We know that not only the work, but also the cost, can be a burden. Contact us today to discover solution to having a perfect new shed. 

How do Prefab Garages stack up to Green Certification?

Yes, there really is a way to make sure you're doing the greenest thing for the environment even if all you need is a shed for your backyard.  When considering storage garages for sale in today's diverse prefab garage market, remember to think about how your garage could contribute to a cleaner lifestyle.  

The issue of caring for our environment concerns all of us, whether considering a small shed or a roomy double garage for cars and more.  It's more important than ever to consider what kind of environmental impact our actions have on the world we live in.

Recently the Green Parking Council published an article about new certification levels for garage structures: 

"Green Garage Certification is the world’s only rating system defining and recognizing sustainable practices in parking structure management, programming, design, and technology.
An industry-driven, field-tested road map for high-performance new and existing parking garages, Green Garage Certification recognizes forward-thinking facilities shaping the transportation network of tomorrow.
Built through the collaboration of over 200 professionals from the parking, real estate, technology and sustainability worlds, Green Garage Certification promotes a holistic approach to garage performance and sustainability and encourages the adoption of emerging smart parking and intelligent transportation tools."

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has green building advice on their website, including this information on choosing a greener garage door:

"Garage doors containing recycled content are available on the market, including ones made of composite wood or steel. Insulated garage doors are also widely available, which can help keep your garage and any adjacent rooms warmer in the winter, and improve the energy efficiency of your home. For homes in warmer climates, consider a perforated garage door, which allows ventilation and light inside the garage, while providing security and privacy."

The Amish tradition of hand built structures and gardening was a green industry long before it became evident in today's fast paced world how necessary green building practices are to assist the creation of a sustainable and healthy environment.  

We've been keeping the garage and shed building business in Lancaster County as green as possible since 1975.  Community is important to us and we keep the well-being and safety of our neighbors first.  We were quick to response in 2012, when Hurricane Sandy caused damage and destruction throughout the East Coast. We got a number of calls saying that our structures were some of the only ones still standing! For more information on the methods and materials used in we use, contact 

us here .

Top 5 Shed Organization Hacks for Your Outdoor Man Cave

Are you looking for mundane or ho-hum tricks to manage the limited space you have available in you shed? 

You're looking for brilliance! Well, we may not have brilliance but we do have a few good ideas you may not have thought of in this simple but informative blog entry; The top 5 shed organization hacks for your outdoor man cave.

1) Shelves Are a No-Brainer

Now shelves aren't so far up on the brilliance scale. You've thought of those already. But how useful are they really? Are they sturdy enough to hold all your stuff without wobbling? If they're not all that sturdy, consider screwing them to the wall. Why not? It's your shed, and everything in it, right down to the shelves should be as useful as it can be. Furthermore, make sure they're not so tall you can't use the top shelf. If they are, start thinking skinny and flat. We're sure you can come up with few of those items to stick up there.

2) Install a Tool Hanger or Two

Tool hangers to hang those pesky rakes and shovels from are just smart. If you install one of these hanger, long gone are the days of leaning them in the corner only to have to struggle to get the one you need. As well, how many times have you caught a toe on a rake only to have it knock everything else over or swing out to practically smack you in the head?

3) Peg Boards Are a Big Plus

Peg boards are so versatile since you can buy a lot of different types of hangers to plug into them. Plus, as the things you store on peg boards will change over time, you can move the hangers around to fit it all without a hitch or a hassle.

4) Wind up Cords and Hoses

Although your hose reel may be handy sitting in the yard, it takes up quite a bit of floor space in your shed. Consider a wall mount system that holds them tight against the wall. Your hose will be just as handy if you really need it during the fall and winter months. Furthermore, extension cords can be hung in the same way without getting tangled. Think about it, when you need an extension cord, you need it now. It wastes a bunch of time trying to untangle it and get the knots out just so you can string a light under your car or power up a saw for a quick cut with your saw.

5) Can You Do the Can-Can?

We bet you can. But we're not talking about dancing here. Most guys think of trash cans are only useful for trash. However, have you thought about using them for storing bagged items like pet food and bedding or driveway oil-dry? Or how about sidewalk salt, grass seed, lawn fertilizer or charcoal briquettes for the grill. You get the point. Anything that comes in a bag can be tossed in a can or bucket to make it less of a mess to deal with and take a lot less space.

Floor Space Is at a Premium

No matter how big your shed is, floor space is always going to be at a premium once you stick your hunting gear, golf clubs, lawn mower, motorcycles and ATV's inside. But think about it; if you get all the little stuff up off the floor and out of your way, you'll have tons of room for the big stuff. Who knows, with a little planning you may even have room for a comfy chair to sit on while you watch the game and enjoy a cold one after all the honey-do's are done for the day.

If you'd like more room for all the stuff you need to keep outdoors, contact us. We'll be more than happy to show you how we can help you get a lot more space in your outdoor man-cave.

Prefab Garages: Advantages and Considerations

Advantages of a Prefab Garages

There several benefits for having prefab garages.  One of the main pros is their affordability. These garages are considerably more affordable than garages built from scratch. You get to select the kind of garage you want, so your garage cost depends on your budget and what you prefer.

Variety is another benefit. You can find prefab garages in a wide range of styles, sizes and designs. What’s more, you can order a prefab garage that fits into whatever space you may have.  You can easily select your garage’s roofing, siding and trim so that it matches your house.

They're also environmentally friendly. Consider that there’s less waste involved in manufacturing them.

Considerations and Warnings

• You can have the entire structure transported, at once, or have it moved in sections that will be connected once the sections arrive at your site.
• Constructing your prefab garage includes installing any extra features you may request, besides interior finishing and garage wiring.
• If your garage will be planted in a damp area, lumber can be pressure treated for an additional cost. Also, floor joists and floors can be upgraded.
• This type of garage typically meets or even exceeds standards required for earthquake safety without having to make extra modifications This is because prefab garages are constructed from materials made to withstand the stress involved in transporting them.
• You need flat, level land for your prefabricated garage. If you've already built your foundation, level out your space, using a shovel.
• When using a kit, ensure you keep up with all screws and other tiny parts. Losing a single screw can make your garage look as if it’s angled slightly to the right.
• Customizing your prefab garage can increase the cost of a basic kit. Consider that it’s less expensive than traditional garages because it’s not customized. Therefore, making adjustments in finishes and materials or adding storage space can affect cost.

Let Stoltzfus Structures help you select the best prefab garage for your property. If you have any questions about these garages, please contact us.

3 Reasons a Detached Garage is a Good Idea

Even with proper construction and ventilation, garages attached to your home can be a health and safety hazard for your family. Noxious vehicle exhaust is not the only threat to be concerned with. If you are repairing or maintaining cars, motorcycles, or four-wheeler bikes you probably have items stored in the garage such as motor oil and brake fluid. As you know, these put off fumes and are flammable. The fumes can linger for a long time. If your air ducts in your attached garage are connected to the house air ducts, these fumes can travel into the house along with lung-damaging dust particles from other repairs such as rust removal. A detached garage keeps these fumes isolated from your residence.

Many people use their garages to store fuel for lawn mowers and snow blowers, paint, varnish, thinners, degreaser, weed killers, and insect repellents. Using the correct containers and storing these combustible items properly reduces the possibility of fire. A detached garage safeguards your home and family should a fire occur.

Noise is another factor that is eliminated with a detached garage. Persons working on vehicles should be wearing ear protection, but those in the house are not. Loud noises can cause irreversible hearing loss. A detached garage will keep the clamor isolated to the immediate area.

The health and safety of your family is your highest concern. Plus, getting your tools out of the living room will delight your wife. We can help you protect your family's safety and sanity with a detached garages specifically designed for your needs, so contact us for more information.

10 Tips to Keep Bugs and Critters Out of Your Shed

Storage Sheds have become a great investment for many homeowners. It helps to declutter garages and carports and adds value to the resell of a home. Storage sheds come in many types and designs but the 3 most common are wood, vinyl or metal. An important aspect in having a storage shed is maintaining a storage shed for years of use. If a storage shed is not maintained it can become infested with insects and rodents.

Some of the insects and rodents that have been found in storage sheds are ants, roaches, termites, mice, rats, mosquitoes, bees, flies, spiders and fleas. So how do you keep your storage shed bug free?

The first step is to prepare your storage shed ahead of time. Here are things you can do.

1. Paint - If you have a wood storage shed or a shed with a wood base then paint it. Paint will act as a cover for the wood shed and the paint will help prevent wood rot for many years.

2. Seal Cracks - Check your shed inside and out for openings and cracks. Even the slightest opening will invite bugs.

3. Ventilation - Proper ventilation will prevent moisture in the storage shed. Mold and mildew has been known to attract bugs.

4. Natural Deterrents - Certain herb plants can be planted around your shed for protection. Catnip is said to repel ants, lavender repels moths, sage repels slugs, Flies hate the smell of basil and mint can repel mice.

If you have a storage shed that has been around a while you may ask how to get rid of bugs that are already in the shed? Here are some tips.

5. Rotten Wood - Fix or replace any rotten wood that your shed may have.

6. Clean - Sweep out or vacuum your shed. This should be done one to three times a month.

7. Garbage - Do not store garbage cans inside the shed. It attracts many insects.

8. Insecticides - Use bait, bug traps or insecticides to get rid of any bugs that are in your storage shed.

9. Shed Perimeter - Spray or spread insecticide around the outside perimeter of your storage shed.

10. Moth Balls - Place moth balls around the shed and under it to keep snakes and spiders away.

As you can see, keeping a storage shed bug free is not difficult and keeping your storage shed in good condition will be beneficial to the investment of your home.

The Best Way to Add Resale Value to Your Home

Веfоrе уоu mаkе а major structural change tо уоur property, іt іs іmроrtаnt tо consider hоw thіs will affect уоur resale vаluе. 

Whіlе thеrе аrе mаnу steps thаt уоu саn tаkе tо improve уоur property, thе addition оf а detached garage mау bе the most beneficial tо уоu. It also mау drastically improve уоur resale price whеn уоu аrе ready tо sell.

Adding Square Footage tо Yоur Home: As а property owner, уоu mау bе well aware thаt оnе оf thе mоst common ways thе vаluе оf уоur property іs determined іs bу thе market rate fоr price реr square foot оf homes іn thе area. Whіlе factors suсh аs age оf thе property, condition оf thе property аnd amenities іn thе neighborhood mау affect whеthеr уоur property’s price реr square foot іs аbоvе оr bеlоw market average, thе size оf thе improvements hаs а direct impact оn property vаluе. Adding а detached garage adds square footage tо thе property, аnd а real estate agent саn help уоu tо determine thе true financial gain уоu mау experience thrоugh thіs addition.

Increasing Appeal tо Potential Buyers: Properties thаt аrе mоrе appealing tо potential buyers mау sell fоr а higher price. Whеn уоu add а detached garage tо уоur property, уоu mау bе adding style аnd function tо thе property bу adding а place tо park vehicles аnd tо store items lіkе seasonal items аnd lawn equipment. Yоu саn аlsо create а detached garage wіth а workshop оr аnоthеr functional area fоr аddеd appeal.

Transforming Existing Space: Some hоmе additions will add а detached garage tо а property bесаusе а garage wаs nеvеr constructed оn thе property, but оthеrs will bе аddеd bесаusе thе homeowner wаnts tо transform thе existing garage attached tо thе hоmе іntо а mоrе functional area. Fоr example, а nеw hоmе addition, mау turn thе existing garage іntо а living room, а bedroom оr аnоthеr functional area. Wіth thе addition оf а detached garage, thе property owner саn retain thе benefits оf hаvіng а garage whіlе аlsо improving thе functional usе оf thе main area оf thе hоmе.

Contact us to learn how you can benefit from extra storage space. 

Prefab Garages vs Stick Built Garages

There are many factors to consider when adding a garage to your home and it's not just about what it will look 

like. Perhaps the most important question of all is how much it is going to cost. That really does depend on whether you are considering prefab garages or traditionally built garages. Although they both will do a good job of protecting your vehicle and prized possessions, there's a huge difference in price.

First of all, let's talk about how much value is building a garage going to add to your home? According to Remodeling magazine, roughly 69% of the investment will be recouped. In other words, if you spend $20,000 on construction, it will add $13,800 in overall value to your home if you decide to sell. Add to that the convenience and security that a garage offers and it's clear that it is an excellent home improvement.

There are a couple of options to choose from for the construction of a garage. First is the traditional, stick built structures that everyone is familiar with. And, over the last several years, prefab garages have been more and more prevalent. Either type of construction will serve the purpose it's intended to, but when cost is taken into consideration, there is one clear front-runner.

On average, one-car garages built with traditional materials are going to start out somewhere around $10,000 and go up from there. To construct and a two-car can nearly double the price tag. In addition to the actual construction costs, there are also going to be permits, inspections and other costs to factor in. Plus, just like any other construction project, it takes time and schedules can easily be altered due to weather or crew issues. The longer it takes, the more expensive the build gets.

Keep in mind that the bigger the garage, the more square footage you'll have to use after construction for both kinds of garages. Also keep in mind that the larger the garage, the more materials and labor will be required. How big should you build? That will depend on how many vehicles you want to use it for and whether or not you need extra storage space. It's always nice to have a little extra floor space for gardening equipment, bicycles and tools, but adding just ten square feet (5' x 2') you add roughly $400 to the cost of construction.

Prefab garages, on the other hand range in price from $4,000 on up. The construction time is significantly reduced since the basic construction is done off-site. The manufacturer builds the frame, loads it up on a truck and hauls it out to your site where the pieces are fully assembled. The benefit is that it requires a minimal amount of time, compared to standard construction. Within short order, they will put it all together and all you have to do is park the car inside.

So, you know that adding a garage adds value to your home, expands your storage space and keeps your vehicle safe and out of the weather. You don't have to spend the kids college tuition or cash in your retirement savings. There is one simple way to save money while still getting a garage that suits your needs. Contact us for more information about how prefab garages offer the same stability, durability and functionality of stick-built garages, but cost less and go up much quicker.