An eco-shed is one that has a low impact upon the environment, so it’s the ideal choice for today’s eco-friendly family who wants to beautify and enhance a garden with a functional and aesthetically pleasing shed.
Photo by London Permaculture
Whether you use your eco-shed simply for storage or you’re planning on utilising it as a workspace, below are some things you should consider during the planning process before you begin building.
Be Prepared to Build
When it comes to building any shed, not just an eco-shed, you have to be prepared to build. If you aren’t adept at DIY projects and small construction projects, it may be best to hire a family member, friend, or even a professional to help you get the job done correctly. Failing to do so will result in structural problems that can wreak havoc in the long run.
Incorporate Recycled Building Materials
A shed that isn’t made of sustainable and/or recycled materials isn’t really an eco-shed. Thankfully, there are a variety of recycled building materials that you can find to construct your ideal shed. Look for scrap metals, FSC-certified wood, scrapyard parts, recycled plastic and glass, etc. You can even get really creative and innovative by using products from around the house that you’d otherwise discard.
Use Timber Whenever Possible
Considered one of the most environmentally friendly materials used in construction, timber is definitely a great choice for an eco-shed of any size. If you can get your hands on recycled timber, it’s even more ecologically sound. And whenever you look for timber that isn’t recycled, be sure that it’s sourced from sustainably managed forests. Locally sourced timber is also best. Look for the FSC verification to ensure trees are replanted after they’re harvested.
Heating and Lighting Your Shed
If you want to add power to your shed, do so in an eco-friendly way through the use of renewable energy sources, such as solar panels. Also, simply insulating your shed properly will ensure that the energy that you do produce for heating and cooling the space won’t be wasted. A great example of eco-friendly insulation is straw bales. You can also opt for Structural Insulated Panels (SIPs), as well as insulation under the floor for added protection from extreme temperatures.
When it comes to lighting, natural light is always best because it’s free and doesn’t require the use of electricity. Incorporate plenty of windows and skylights into the design of your shed to make the most of the sunlight by day, and then use solar powered light fixtures by night.
Walls and Flooring
If you’re planning on painting the walls inside your shed to make it a really cosy space, stick with paints that contain low to no VOCs, as these are best for the environment and your health. And when it comes to the flooring, stick with PVC-free flooring by using cork tiles, bamboo flooring, and timber boards.
