frequently Asked Questions

Shed Configurator REQUEST A QUOTE

How long will it take to have my Studio Shed installed?
Please allow 4-8 weeks for your Studio Shed to arrive and be installed, from final design approval. We offer certified, professional installation on all properly prepared sites (see foundation info below). If you are permitting your structure, lead-times could be longer and depends on the timeliness of your city / county building department.

How do I order?  What's the process?
It's simple.  Build Your Studio Shed online and proceed to checkout.  We will contact you immediately to arrange installation and answer any questions you may have.  If you want options you don't see online, give us a call at 888-900-3933 and place your order over the phone; we can accommodate most requests.

Also see our quote request option here. We will respond with an exact quote for the options you choose within 24 hours.

Do you offer finished interiors?

Yes. All Studio Shed Lifestyle models include beautiful, insulated, finished interiors, with a variety of options you choose.

What is the difference between your product lines?

Studio Shed Storage models come with unfinished open-stud interiors, and are great for basic storage or a backyard workshop.

Studio Shed Lifestyle models are turnkey studio spaces; insulated, highly efficient, and suitable for a variety of uses. All interior finishes are included, and insulated double-pane glass is standard.

Studio Shed Garage + models are engineered differently than our Storage and Lifestyle models. They have higher ceilings, larger windows, micro-lam beams within the walls to create shear strength, and beautiful cedar roof beams in either 3x8 or 4x8 sizes. Our 14x and 16x Lifestyle models use our Garage+ engineering and ceiling height to create tall, open-plan finished spaces. 12x Lifestyle models can be configured in this way as well for an extra charge.

How does payment work and do you offer financing?
For installed units, we require a 45% deposit, 50% before shipment, and 5% due upon installation.  For DIY kits, we require a 40% deposit and 60% due before shipment/ receipt.  We accept all major credit cards and checks.

What is the "square" / "block" siding material?
Collins TruWood® Siding.  An FSC certified engineered wood siding.  1/2" thick, tough against the elements, long lasting, and backed by a 30 year mfg warranty.

Is this a kit?
Most Studio Sheds are sold as turn-key buildings and installed by our professional team. Our finished panels are fabricated in our factory, then crated and shipped to each building site where they are professionally installed by our CI teams. An installation of our most popular sizes takes 2-3 days, and as little as a week for larger units and Lifestyle models.

For 2012 we have launched our Small Kits line – which are sold exclusively as DIY kits. They are designed to be assembled by any handy homeowner, and we are here to help – please contact us with questions at answers@studio-shed.com.

Who will install my Studio Shed?
We have a national team of Certified Installers (our CI program).  All team members are accredited, licensed, bonded and insured.  For more information about our CI program, please contact Nick Ferrera - nick@studio-shed.com

Do I need a building permit?
It depends on the size and options of your Studio Shed. Most counties allow for the construction of one 120 square foot structure without applying for a building permit. Be sure to check local regulations before ordering, however, as some municipalities have more stringent requirements.

If you determine that you need a building permit, we now offer in-house support with our Permit Services option. Our experience with numerous permitted projects ensures a smooth installation experience and we recommend this option if you decide to permit your Studio Shed. We handle everything – from engineered drawings specific to your state, to permit submission, inspection scheduling, and final project completion.

What does the Permit Services option include?
Studio Shed is proud to introduce our Permit Services option. As our product line expands, an increasing number of our clients are choosing to permit our structures. We are staying ahead of the curve in making our installations as easy as possible.

When you select our Permit Services option, it includes, but is not limited to the following:

  • Studio Shed provides stamped, engineered drawings specific to your state and location.
  • Studio Shed handles all permit submissions with your county building department.
  • Studio Shed will receive your permit, and make adjustments as necessary to accommodate site plan or design changes.
  • Studio Shed coordinates all inspections, and works with you to create an efficient project timeline.
  • Studio Shed ensures that your project meets and passes all required inspections and that your building permit is successfully closed with your county building department.

Do you offer garage doors, french doors, etc?

Yes. We offer steel french doors, glass french doors, and all sorts of garage doors.  Please have a look at our Product Information page, or contact us for details.

What about electricity?
Lifestyle models are pre-wired for a simple electrical hookup and include all fixtures, switches and outlets. Trenching and hookup to the home are the responsibility of the homeowner. In most cases our Certified Installation teams can work with you to provide this service. Depending on your municipality, you may need a permit. If you choose our Permit Services option, Studio Shed will coordinate electrical installation and inspections.

What type of foundation do I need?
Studio Shed products are designed to be placed on either a poured concrete slab, or installed with a self-supported joisted floor system, similar to a deck. Joisted floor systems start at $450 and in this type of installation, the only requirement is that the site is level within 6" across the diameter of the shed. The typical cost of a concrete slab for one of our sheds is about ranges from $6-$10 / sqft (depending on your site and location). If you are unsure which would be best for you, contact us for advice. Please refer to customer responsibilities within our terms and conditions section.

How tall is the roof, ceiling, and how about the eave lengths?
The average interior height of each Shed is 7’3" at the rear and 8’3" at the front. The highest point of the roof on the outside is 8’11”.  For all 8x, 10x, and 12x Studio Sheds, eave lengths are 24" off the front and 18" off the sides and back.  Eave lengths may be customized for a small charge.

Do you offer a warranty?
All Studio Shed products as well as our installations are backed by a 1-year warranty covering material defects and workmanship.  Additional mfg warranties are available.  See terms and conditions.

How are they constructed?
Optimized engineering and clean factory production ensure the highest quality, minimal waste, and a value oriented product. Like normal home construction, we use 2 x 4 wall construction (or 2 x 6 for larger units), sheathed with the high efficiency ZipWall system, then sided with Collins TruWood® Siding (and metal for the wainscot option). The basic model is simply framed, sheathed ACX sanded plywood and painted. Heavy duty roof, engineered for maximum loads across the country, are either 2 x 6, 8, 10, or beams depending on the size.

Are they weatherproof?
Yes.

What is the difference between the Basic model, the Collins/ Metal, and the Collins model?
The Basic model, ideal for general storage, is simply painted sheathing and structural lumber, trimmed with batons of Collins TruWood®.  The Collins / Metal and Collins models, have beautiful aluminum reveals between the panels, and a great for not only storage but also finished spaces.  See above question for details on construction.  

What is the roofing material?
24 gauge corrugated metal on top of weather paper.

Can I live in it?
Check with your local authorities for occupancy regulations.

Do the rafters need to be treated?
It's up to you and your location.  Some clients leave them untreated, and others paint / stain them.  We offer painted / stained rafters starting at $500, and are painted/ stained in the field during installation.

Do you offer solar power?
Please contact us for details and also check out www.dsireusa.org for state and national rebate information.