Building a ramp for easy access to an outdoor storage shed is a relatively straightforward process that can be completed with basic tools and materials. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to build a ramp:
- Measure and determine the dimensions: Start by measuring the height from the ground to the entrance of the shed. This measurement will dictate the length and slope of your ramp.
- Choose the ramp material: Decide on the material you want to use for your ramp. Popular choices include wood, concrete, or composite decking. Ensure that the chosen material is sturdy and can withstand outdoor weather conditions.
- Prepare the site: Clear the area in front of the shed entrance and ensure the ground is level. Remove any debris or obstacles that might hinder the ramp installation.
- Determine the ramp design and slope: Depending on the height of the shed entrance, decide on the length and slope of the ramp. To calculate the slope, divide the height of the shed entrance by the desired run of the ramp. For example, if the height is 24 inches and you want a 12-foot run, the slope would be 24 divided by 12, resulting in a ratio of 1:6.
- Lay the ramp foundation: Dig out the area where the ramp will be placed, removing any grass, soil, or debris. Fill this area with crushed gravel or a compacted stone base to create a solid foundation for the ramp.
- Construct the ramp frame: Using pressure-treated lumber, build the frame of the ramp to the desired dimensions. Attach supporting joists every 12-16 inches to provide stability. Ensure that the frame is square and level.
- Attach the ramp decking: Lay the chosen ramp material on top of the frame, aligning it with the sides. Secure the decking to the frame using screws or nails. Ensure that the decking is even and smooth, allowing for safe and easy access.
- Check for stability: Once the decking is secured, test the ramp by walking on it to ensure its stability. Make any necessary adjustments or reinforcements to the frame if needed.
- Add handrails (optional): If desired, install handrails on either side of the ramp for enhanced safety and support. Use sturdy materials such as wood or metal, ensuring they are securely attached to the ramp.
- Finish and maintain the ramp: Apply a weatherproof finish or paint to the ramp to protect it from moisture and UV rays. Regularly inspect and clean the ramp, removing any debris or obstructions to ensure continued easy access.
By following these steps, you can build a ramp that provides convenient access to your outdoor storage shed.
Best Outdoor Storage Sheds of 2024
1
Rating is 5 out of 5
Rubbermaid Outdoor Small Vertical Resin Storage Shed, 5x2 Feet, Brown, Weather Resistant Utility Shed with Lock for Storage for Lawn Accessories/Power Tools/Outdoor Toys/Hose
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Storage Shed dimensions – 52” W x 31” D x 81” H | Storage Capacity – 53 cubic feet
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Leak-resistant, dent-resistant, weather-resistant
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Easy to assemble. Extra deep fit for large, hard to store items
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Heavy duty, impact resistant floor included | Lockable (lock not included)
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Use Rubbermaid wall anchors to add pegboard, shelves and other organizational accessories to the inside of the shed
2
Rating is 4.9 out of 5
Devoko Outdoor Storage Shed 5 x 3 FT Lockable Metal Garden Shed Steel Anti-Corrosion Storage House with Single Lockable Door for Backyard Outdoor Patio
3
Rating is 4.8 out of 5
Aoxun Outdoor Storage Shed, 4x6 FT, Garbage Can,Outdoor Metal Shed for Tool,Garden,Bike, Brown
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【Spacious Outdoor shed】The 4×6FT Outdoor storage shed measures 51"L x 76"W x 77.6"H. This outdoor storage shed is perfect for your outdoor storage needs. This metal garden shed can store your snow blowers, shovels, outdoor chairs, bicycles, and toy cars. You can also buy some storage racks to hang on your outdoor storage shed to organize your shovels, umbrellas, antennas, escalators, and more.
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【Unique Excellent design】The sloping roof design not only increases the use area, but also prevents rainwater from gathering at the top for a long time. Special design of air vents to prevent any lack of air inside. Pad-lockable doors give easy access to your stored items and enhance the safety.
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【Multifunctional use】The versatile outdoor storage shed that’s available for multipurpose use, such as a convenient garden storeroom, a warm pet shelter, or a tidy garbage collection chamber； Perfect for backyard, garden, patio, which is a great shed house for backyard!
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【Durable and Stable Storage Shed】Durable structure and thick galvanized steel, waterproof, which make it easy to cope with all kinds of bad weather and have a long service life. Thick metal supporting roof and stacked wallboard make the whole structure more stable.
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【Upgraded Package】All parts of the outdoor closet shed have stuck a part number label, with a step-by-step manual. Note: The tool storage shed needs to be assembled with two-person. We also provide two pairs of gloves to facilitate your installation.
4
Rating is 4.7 out of 5
AECOJOY Outdoor Lean to Storage Shed, 4.2' x 7' Small Metal Wall Side Door Sheds & Outdoor Storage, Outdoor Storage Cabinet for Garden, Backyard
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Effortless Installation: Our user-friendly guide, detailed manuals ensure a trouble-free setup experience. Additionally, our expert technical team is available for remote assistance whenever you require support.
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Outdoor Storage Solution: This top-notch storage shed boasts a spacious footprint of 28 square feet, featuring a door measuring 2.3 feet. With ample space to accommodate 4 lawnmowers, 6 kids' bikes, 4 snowmobiles, or 2 Vespa motorcycles, it provides the perfect solution for all your outdoor storage needs.
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Protective Features: The shed is coated with galvanized material, ensuring resistance against rust, oxidation, and moisture. Its sloped roof design effectively prevents water pooling and leakage, making it a reliable choice for your outdoor storage needs.
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Durable & Strong: Enhanced metal plates elevate the shed's weight to 112 lbs, surpassing cheaper alternatives and significantly enhancing its stability. It can withstand severe weather conditions with exceptional wind resistance of approximately 70 mph.
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Impeccable Service: Enjoy a 1-year warranty and lifelong customer-friendly support available 24/7. We are always prepared to assist you, ensuring a flawless experience.
5
Rating is 4.6 out of 5
Keter Manor 4x6 Resin Outdoor Storage Shed Kit-Perfect to Store Patio Furniture, Garden Tools Bike Accessories, Beach Chairs and Lawn Mower, Grey & White
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DIMENSIONS: Exterior: 51. 2 in. W x 75. 6 in. D x 78 in. H / Interior: 43. 7 in. W x 69. 7 in. D x 74. 8 in. H
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IDEAL SIZE: Generous storage capacity of 131. 8 cubic feet
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RESIN CONSTRUCTION: Made from polypropylene resin plastic & steel reinforced to ensure durability - will not peel, rot or rust & never needs painting
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DURABLE: Weather-resistant, waterproof and UV protected - will not peel, rot or rust
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LIGHT & AIRY: Skylight and window to let in natural light & vented for air circulation
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ATTRACTIVE: Stylish wood-like texture will complement any home
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VERSATILE: Use as a storage shed for a push lawn mower, bike storage, yard tools, garden tools, and patio furniture
6
Rating is 4.5 out of 5
GUNJI 5 x 3 FT Shed Outdoor Storage Shed Metal Garden Shed with Lockable Door Outside Waterproof Tool Shed for Backyard, Patio, Lawn (Brown)
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Storage Shed: The storage shed can be used as a tool shed to store garden tools such as weeders, watering cans, shovels, or pool tools such as cleaning brushes, swimming rings, pool leaf nets, etc. It can also be used as a parking shed to park your bicycle, electric bike or skateboard. Depending on your different needs, it can also be a utility room, pet house, etc.
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Sturdy & Safe: The metal shed is made of galvanized steel with stronger tensile strength and hardness, and the structure of the shed is in accordance with the mechanics, which ensures the solidity and stability of the shed. In addition, we have optimized the safety of the shed. We provide plastic protection caps for each screw to prevent someone from being injured due to the exposed screws.
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Outdoor Shed: The material of the metal shed has strong rust and UV protection, whether it's heavy rain, hot sun, or snow, you don't have to worry about your outdoor shed. And the storage shed is designed with a lockable door, which improves the safety of outdoor use and prevents some small animals from accidentally entering.
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Garden Organizer: The overall dimensions of the shed are 61 x 34 x 71 (L x W x H) inches, with 67 cu. ft. of internal storage space. You can store all your garden tools and equipment neatly in the tool shed to give your garden a neat and organized look.
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About the Installation: The package contains detailed installation instructions, which indicate the number of each part and the step-by-step operation. Follow the instructions for installation, you only need to spend about 30 minutes to complete the installation and get a practical outdoor storage shed.
7
Rating is 4.4 out of 5
Keter Factor 6x3 Outdoor Storage Shed Kit-Perfect to Store Patio Furniture, Garden Tools Bike Accessories, Beach Chairs and Push Lawn Mower, Taupe & Brown
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DIMENSIONS: External: 70 in. W x 44. 5 in. D x 82 in. H / Internal: 64 in. W x 39 in. D x 78. 5 in. H
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LARGE CAPACITY: 110 cu. ft. storage capacity
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RESIN CONSTRUCTION: Made from polypropylene resin plastic & steel reinforced to ensure durability - will not peel, rot or rust & never needs painting.Sidewall Height:77 inch
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DURABLE: Weather-resistant, waterproof and UV protected - will not peel, rot or rust
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LIGHT & AIRY: Skylight to let in natural light & vented for air circulation
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VERSATILE: Use as a storage shed for a push lawn mower, bike storage, yard tools, garden tools, and patio furniture
8
Rating is 4.3 out of 5
Outdoor Storage Sheds - 8x6Ft Metal Garden Storage Shed - Tool Small House with Air Vent and Lockable Door for Backyard Patio Lawn
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Adjustabel Height and Removable Shelf - There are 22 predrilled holes on each side of shelf so that it is easy to put two racks at any heights for your convinience. Besides, the shelf is also removable to any position in the shed and assembly stable.
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Spacious&Multipurpose Garden Shed - Feature with 44sqft coverage, this garden shed is easy to keep your garden supplies like extra soil, lawn mowers as well as be a garbage storage place. It is also a good option to be a pet house with spacious room.
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All Weather Storage Shed - Compared with wooded storage shed, a metal shed is more durable with its galvanized steel material. Sloped roof is responsible for drainage and will help avoiding leakage or accumulation from the heavy rain or heavy snow effectively.
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Upgrade Tool Cabinet - Compared with common cabinet, this tool cabinet is made of upgraded material. It is with thicker panels which is up to 0.01inch and 174lbs weight for better stability. Come with a painted surface, this cabinet is rust and weather resistant which makes it perfect for outdoor using.
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Dimension and Size - Overall size:94.1x72.2x76.8inch(LXWXH); Door: 65.5x45inch(HXW); Capacity:281cubic feet. Foundation Size: 86.2x49.6x1.2inch(LXWXH); Shelf size: 23.2x9.6x63.3inch(LXWXH).
9
Rating is 4.2 out of 5
Keter Premier Tall 4.6 x 5.6 ft. Resin Outdoor Storage Shed with Shelving Brackets for Patio Furniture, Pool Accessories, and Bikes, Grey & Black
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DIMENSIONS: 55. 1 in. L x 29 in. W x 67. 1 in. H
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IDEAL SIZE: Generous storage capacity of 62. 05 cubic foot perfect for garden tool storage
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RESIN CONSTRUCTION: Made from polypropylene resin plastic & steel reinforcement to ensure its durability
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DURABLE: Weather-resistant, waterproof and UV protected - will not peel, rot or rust
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SHELVING: Adjustable brackets included to support 2 shelves (shelves not included)
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METAL HINGES hold up to constant wear and tear
10
Rating is 4.1 out of 5
Greesum Metal Outdoor Storage Shed 8FT x 6FT, Steel Utility Tool Shed Storage House with Door & Lock, Metal Sheds Outdoor Storage for Backyard Garden Patio Lawn (8’x 6'), Brown
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Utility Storage Shed:Storage shed is available in a variety of sizes for multipurpose use, perfect for outdoor backyard, garden, patio, utility room. It can also be used as a pet house to provide a warm and safe room for your pet. The protective film on the surface can prevent people from being scratched.
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Tilted Roof & Lockable Door: This outdoor storage shed has a sloped roof that adds extra storage space while preventing rusting caused by rainwater gathering. The lockable door improves security and prevents small animals from accidentally entering.
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Durable & Stable Storage Shed: Durable construction and thicker galvanized steel make this durable lifetime shed rust and UV resistant. The overlapping wall panels are water and moisture resistant for worry-free use in all weather conditions.
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Dress Up Your Backyard: This outdoor storage shed provides an extra storage space to hide waste and large equipment of your yard. And it can help you to avoid clutter in your yard, basement or garage. Keep your yard looking clean and tidy.
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Installation Advice: The product is large and it is recommended that you get a helper. To prevent scratches from iron pieces, we recommend that you wear gloves when installing
11
Rating is 4 out of 5
Suncast BMS6312D Everett 6' x 3' Heavy-Duty Resin Outdoor Pad-Lockable Double Doors and Windows All-Weather Shed for Yard Storage, Dove Gray
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6' x 3' OUTDOOR STORAGE SHED: Features a slim footprint design with 94 cu. ft. of space for lawn equipment and gardening tools while fitting nicely along a house or garage when yard space is limited
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PAD-LOCKABLE DOUBLE DOORS: Large double-door entryway provides easy access to stored belongings, and the doors feature pad-lockable resin handles to prevent theft and unauthorized use (padlock not included)
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HEAVY-DUTY CONSTRUCTION: Metal reinforced, multi-wall resin panels provide water resistance and UV protection for all-weather durability, while the reinforced resin floor withstands heavy loads
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AIR VENTS AND NATURAL LIGHTING: Designed with 1 built-in skylights and large windows that allow natural light to illuminate the space on sunny days and air vents that provide proper air circulation
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FUNCTIONAL AND ATTRACTIVE: Easy to clean and maintain and boasts a classic shed design with architectural details and shingle-style roof panels to look great in your yard all year long
What type of ramp surface material is suitable for easy access to an outdoor storage shed?
There are several suitable ramp surface materials for easy access to an outdoor storage shed. Here are a few options:
- Pressure-Treated Wood: Pressure-treated lumber is a popular choice as it is durable, affordable, and readily available. It can be treated to resist rot, decay, and termite damage. Make sure to choose a smooth, non-slip finish to prevent accidents.
- Composite Decking: Composite decking is a low-maintenance option that is resistant to rot, moisture, and insects. It provides a smooth and sturdy surface for easy accessibility and can be found in various colors and finishes to match your shed's aesthetic.
- Rubber Flooring: Rubber flooring or mats offer excellent traction and prevent slipping, even in wet conditions. They are weather-resistant and do not require any special maintenance. Rubber ramps are especially useful for wheelchair accessibility.
- Concrete: If you prefer a permanent and sturdy solution, a concrete ramp is an option. It provides a solid surface and can be customized with different finishes, like stamped concrete or a non-slip texture. However, it requires professional installation and could be more expensive than other materials.
Ultimately, the best ramp surface material for easy access to an outdoor storage shed will depend on factors such as budget, aesthetics, and personal preferences.
How to construct a ramp without violating local building codes or regulations?
Constructing a ramp without violating local building codes or regulations requires careful planning and adherence to specific guidelines. Here are steps to follow:
- Research local building codes: Familiarize yourself with your local building codes and regulations regarding ramps. This information is typically available on your municipality's website or from the building department. Pay careful attention to specifications related to ramp dimensions, slope, handrails, landings, and other safety requirements.
- Determine the purpose and location: Identify the purpose of the ramp, whether it's for accessibility needs, transportation of goods, or recreational purposes. Consider the location where you intend to build the ramp, such as the height of the structure it needs to access, available space, and any obstructions.
- Consult professionals if necessary: If you are unsure about the specific requirements or need assistance in designing the ramp, consult professionals such as architects, engineers, or contractors familiar with accessibility standards. They can guide you through the process and ensure compliance with regulations.
- Measure and plan: Measure the required length, width, and height of the ramp. Refer to the local codes to determine the acceptable slope ratio, which is typically 1:12 (1 foot of ramp length for every 1 inch of rise). Calculate the ramp's dimensions to achieve the recommended slope while meeting the required length and landing specifications.
- Design for accessibility: Ensure that the ramp is accessible to individuals with disabilities. Incorporate features like handrails on both sides of the ramp, non-slip surface, appropriate width, and a gentle slope that prevent exceeding the maximum allowable inclination.
- Obtain necessary permits: Before starting construction, check if you need permits or approvals from the local building department. Submit the required documentation, including drawings or plans of the proposed ramp, to obtain the necessary permissions.
- Material selection: Select appropriate materials for construction that meet safety standards. Common materials include pressure-treated lumber, concrete, aluminum, or composite materials. Consider durability, slip resistance, and maintenance requirements when choosing materials.
- Construction process: Follow the specified design, dimensions, and materials during the construction process. Use proper construction techniques, secure connections, and reinforcement as required. Pay attention to details such as ensuring smooth transitions at landings and securing handrails at recommended heights.
- Inspections and approvals: Once the ramp is constructed, schedule necessary inspections to ensure compliance with local regulations. An inspector from the building department will evaluate the ramp's safety and adherence to codes. Wait for their final approval before using the ramp.
Remember, it is crucial to comply with local regulations to ensure the safety and accessibility of the ramp. Failure to do so may result in penalties, removal of the ramp, or potential hazards for users.
What is the recommended weight capacity for a ramp used to access an outdoor storage shed?
The recommended weight capacity for a ramp used to access an outdoor storage shed can vary depending on the specific circumstances and the intended usage. However, it is generally recommended to have a weight capacity of at least 600 to 800 pounds (272 to 363 kg) for ramps used in residential settings. For commercial or heavy-duty purposes, higher weight capacities may be required, such as 1000 pounds (453 kg) or more. Ultimately, it is essential to consider the anticipated load and consult the manufacturer or a structural engineer for proper guidance regarding the weight capacity of the ramp.
