Whether you’re looking to build a shed for extra storage space, a workshop for DIY projects or a home office for remote work, you don’t want to settle for a shed that will fall apart when hit by the Florida Panhandle’s unpredictable and often harsh weather.
There are several factors you should look for when considering custom building providers to ensure your new shed or carport is made to withstand the unique challenges posed by the state's climate.
What Is the Best Shed Material for Florida Weather?
The best shed material for Florida weather depends on various factors such as durability, weather resistance and maintenance requirements. Considering Florida's hot and humid climate, as well as the occasional heavy rain and threat of hurricanes, popular sheds include:
- Metal sheds: Galvanized steel or aluminum sheds are highly durable and resistant to rust and corrosion. They can withstand Florida's humidity and heavy rains. Look for models with reinforced frames and connections to enhance their strength. We typically use aluminum siding and roofing with 1 ½-inch screws and neoprene washers for exceptional strength and stability.
- Vinyl sheds: Vinyl sheds are another popular (although less resilient) choice for Florida's weather. Their resistance to moisture, rot and insects can be beneficial for humid conditions.
- Resin/plastic sheds: High-quality resin or plastic sheds are lightweight, easy to assemble and resist water and humidity. They won't rust or rot but even high-end variants may struggle in winds storms.
- Engineered wood sheds: If you prefer the look of wood, engineered wood sheds can be a suitable option. Although they are technically designed to resist moisture, decay and insect damage better than natural wood, they are still, at the end of the day, made of wood and are therefore subject to wood’s limitations.
Additional Factors to Consider
Wind Resistance
Since Florida is susceptible to hurricanes and strong winds, look for sheds with robust construction and anchoring systems. Choose models with reinforced roofs, flooring systems, siding and doors and consider anchoring the shed to a sturdy foundation or using ground anchors for added stability.
Ventilation
Given the hot and humid climate, proper ventilation is crucial to prevent moisture buildup and potential mold issues. Look for sheds with vents or windows that can be opened to allow for air circulation.
Elevated Flooring
Select sheds with an elevated floor or consider installing a raised platform. This helps to keep the interior dry during heavy rains or flooding that can sometimes occur in Florida. We use a special wood floor system for our storage sheds (blocked up, leveled and tied down with 4’ helical mobile home anchors, rated for Class 2 soil) for optimal structure longevity and stability.
UV Resistance
Florida's intense sun can cause fading and deterioration of some materials over time (especially plastics). Ensure that the shed you choose has UV-resistant coatings or materials to prolong its lifespan.
Water-Resistant Seals
To protect the contents from rain and humidity, choose sheds with water-resistant seals around doors and windows.
Do I Need a Permit to Build a Shed in Florida?
You may or may not need a permit to build a shed in Florida. This is dependent on several factors, including the location of your property, the size of the shed and local building regulations. In general, most areas in Florida require a permit for the construction of a shed, but there are some exceptions for smaller, temporary structures.
Some guidelines to consider include:
- Size of the shed: Many jurisdictions in Florida have specific regulations regarding the size of sheds that require a permit. For example, smaller sheds under a certain square footage (often 100-200 square feet) may be exempt from permit requirements.
- Zoning and location: Zoning laws and homeowners' association rules may impact whether you need a permit or not. Some areas have restrictions on where you can place a shed on your property or require certain setbacks from property lines or other structures.
- Hurricane and wind codes: Some Florida municipalities have specific building codes related to wind resistance. If you plan to build a shed in a particularly hurricane-prone area in the Panhandle, you may need a permit to ensure the shed meets these safety requirements.
- Electrical and plumbing: If you intend to have electrical or plumbing installations in your shed, additional permits may be necessary for those specific aspects of the construction.
To determine whether you need a permit, it’s best to contact your local building department or city/county authorities. They will be able to provide you with the most up-to-date information on permit requirements, building codes and any other regulations that may apply to constructing a shed on your property.
Get Your Durable and Weather-Resistant Shed from Bestway Portable Buildings
Investing in a shed in Panama City may seem risky, given the area’s propensity for heavy rain, strong winds and hurricanes. This is why we ensure our sheds, carports, garages and custom buildings are constructed to endure harsh weather.
When you choose Bestway Portable Buildings, you can be confident in the durability and weather-resistance of your structure. Our goal is to provide you with a reliable and long-lasting building that will serve you well for many years to come.
To learn more or request a quote, give us a call at (850) 747-8974.
