I finally have the means to build a shop. All I need to do is decide where to put it.
I currently have a somewhat cramped two-car garage that is 19-feet on a side. It's already hard to get around w/ two cars and all the junk I have in there, so I was already planning on building a shed to hold all of the lawn equipment and sporting stuff.
Of course, instead of using the shed for simple storage, I could use that for my workshop instead. Here are the pros and cons I can come up with. Additional advice will be greatly appreciated!
Garage:
- Can use up to 361 sq ft of space for projects. + Sub-panel in garage has room for 7 more circuits. + Easy access for bringing in tools & wood. + Easy access to house amenities (fridge, bathroom, etc.) - Will only be able to fit one car once machines and benches are lining the sides. - Panel may not accomodate 240v circuits (need to check). - Garage is part of house, so it will be noisy. - No windows in the garage, so natural light only available when door is open. - All of my lawn equipment will be back in the woods, away from the front lawn.
Standalone workshop:
- Dedicated space. Lots of good things about that. + With a gable roof, I can store lots of things overhead. + I can put in a bunch of windows for natural light. + Easier to insulate than the garage. - Max 200 sq. ft. (as per local codes). - I would need to pay an electrician to run new service. - Less accessible. It would be ~150 feet from the road.
If I did go the standalone route, I have a couple more questions:
- Slab or wood floor? Skids or post-and-beam for a wood floor? * Any issues w/ the environment in a weather-proof, but HVAC-less shed? Will I have issues with rust, etc?
Many thanks in advance for any experiences or advice you can share!
- Josh