Outbuilding

Illustration from Report of the Commissioner of Agriculture and Arts By Ontario. Dept. of Agriculture 1888 01

Outbuildings are structures separate from the main house or principal building on a piece of property. These structures serve various purposes, ranging from storage and workshops to living spaces and animal shelters. Outbuildings include garages, sheds, barns, greenhouses, and more, each designed to fulfill specific needs while complementing the overall property layout and design.

Types of Outbuildings

Sheds

A shed is a simple, single-story structure in a back garden or on an allotment used for storage, hobbies, or as a workshop. Sheds vary considerably in the complexity of their construction and their size, from small open-sided tin-roofed structures to large wood-framed sheds with shingled roofs, windows, and electrical outlets.

Garages

A garage is a walled, roofed structure for storing a vehicle or vehicles that may be part of or attached to a home ("attached garage"), or a separate outbuilding or shed ("detached garage"). Residential garages typically have space for one or two cars, although three-car garages are used.

Barns

A barn is an agricultural building usually on farms and used for various purposes. In the North American area, a barn refers to structures that house livestock, including cattle and horses, as well as equipment and fodder, and often grain. In Europe, the range of barns includes buildings for housing livestock, storage of produce, and for activities such as threshing.

Greenhouses

A greenhouse is a structure with walls and a roof made chiefly of transparent material, such as glass, in which plants requiring regulated climatic conditions are grown. These structures range in size from small sheds to industrial-sized buildings. A miniature greenhouse is known as a cold frame.

Functions and Uses

Outbuildings serve a variety of functions. They can be used for storage of tools, vehicles, and garden equipment; as workshops for DIY projects; as living spaces, including guest houses or offices; for agricultural purposes, including housing livestock or storing feed; and for recreational purposes, such as game rooms or home gyms.

Design and Construction

The design and construction of outbuildings can vary widely depending on their intended use, the materials used, the existing architectural style of the main house, and local building codes and regulations. It's important for outbuildings to be constructed in a manner that ensures they are safe, secure, and durable. Proper planning and consideration of the outbuilding's foundation, roofing, insulation, and ventilation are crucial for its longevity and functionality.

Regulations

Local building codes and zoning regulations often dictate the construction of outbuildings. These regulations can affect the size, location, and sometimes the use of the outbuilding. It's important for property owners to check with local planning and zoning departments before constructing an outbuilding to ensure compliance with all regulations.

Conclusion

Outbuildings are a versatile and functional addition to any property, offering additional space for a wide range of activities and purposes. Whether for storage, work, living, or play, outbuildings can be designed and constructed to meet the specific needs of the property owner while enhancing the overall value and utility of the property.