Buying a storage shed might seem simple—but a single misstep can cost you big in time, money, or frustration down the line.
At Allen Portable Buildings, we’ve helped thousands of homeowners across Missouri and Arkansas find their ideal portable building—without the guesswork. From rent-to-own sheds with no credit check to fully customized cabins, we’ve seen it all… including the common pitfalls that trip people up.
So let’s break down the 7 biggest mistakes people make when buying a shed—and how you can sidestep them for a smarter investment.
1. Skipping Local Zoning and HOA Checks
Problem: You fall in love with the perfect shed, only to find out your local rules won’t allow it. Now you’re stuck—or worse, forced to remove it.
Agitate: Local governments and homeowners associations (HOAs) often have strict guidelines on shed size, placement, and permits. Ignoring them could lead to fines, disputes with neighbors, or having to move your shed after installation.
Solution: Always check zoning laws and HOA rules before buying. At Allen Portable Buildings, we walk you through the process to help you avoid surprises.
✅ Pro Tip: Ask your city or county planning department about rules for portable buildings in Missouri and storage sheds in Arkansas before making a purchase.
2. Choosing the Wrong Size (Usually Too Small)
Problem: That compact 8×10 shed looked big enough on the lot—but now you’re out of room and frustrated.
Agitate: Your storage needs grow faster than you think. Holiday decorations, lawn gear, hand-me-down furniture—it all adds up.
Solution: Always plan for future needs. Our lofted barn cabins and utility sheds give you more storage space without expanding the footprint, thanks to built-in overhead lofts and high sidewalls.
✅ Rule of Thumb: Buy at least one size larger than you think you need.
3. Going Cheap—and Paying for It Later
Problem: A rock-bottom price sounds tempting… but cheap sheds often mean cheap materials.
Agitate: Flimsy siding, thin floors, poor craftsmanship—these lead to leaks, warping, or full-blown replacements in just a few years.
Solution: Allen sheds are built with LP SmartSide® wood panels, which resist rot, termites, and extreme weather. We don’t cut corners—because we know Midwest weather doesn’t either.
✅ Want long-term value? Go for prefab storage buildings built to last, not just to look good in a brochure.
4. Forgetting About the Foundation
Problem: You install a beautiful shed on uneven or soft ground—and then the doors stick, water seeps in, or it starts to lean.
Agitate: A weak or sloped base leads to major headaches, costly repairs, and ruined belongings.
Solution: We offer free delivery and setup, including leveling your shed on site. But site prep still matters—like choosing a dry, level spot with good drainage.
✅ Foundation Matters: Gravel pads or concrete blocks work best. We’ll guide you based on your lot.
5. Settling for Cookie-Cutter Designs
Problem: That plain gray box might store your stuff—but it won’t match your home or meet your lifestyle.
Agitate: Most big-box sheds offer zero customization. You’re stuck with basic layouts and few options.
Solution: We specialize in fully customizable sheds, barns, and cabins. Pick your color, trim, layout, door, and window styles—even add porches or shelves.
✅ Browse our portable buildings in Missouri to explore style options.
6. Ignoring Flexible Payment Options
Problem: A shed may feel out of reach if you assume full payment is required upfront.
Agitate: Many folks delay buying the storage they need because they don’t think they can afford it right now.
Solution: We offer rent-to-own sheds in Missouri and Arkansas with no credit check. Just a small deposit and first month’s payment gets your shed delivered and set up.
✅ Bonus: Pay off your contract early with no penalty—or use our 90-day-same-as-cash offer for even more savings.
7. Buying from a Big Box Instead of a Local Builder
Problem: National retailers offer sheds… but not local support, service, or quality control.
Agitate: When issues arise, you’re stuck dealing with call centers, not craftspeople. Plus, many mass-produced units aren’t designed for Midwest weather or rural delivery.
Solution: Allen Portable Buildings is family-owned and Missouri-based, with over 40 years of experience. Our team builds, delivers, and stands behind every structure we sell.
✅ With dealer locations across Missouri and Arkansas, you’re never far from a knowledgeable local rep.
How to Avoid ALL 7 Shed Mistakes? Start with Allen.
We don’t just sell sheds—we help you make the right choice for your space, budget, and needs. Our buildings are:
- Built in Sikeston, MO, by expert craftsmen
- Delivered and leveled for free
- Customizable with dozens of layout and color options
- Available with no-credit-check Rent-to-Own plans
Whether you’re after a lofted barn cabin, utility shed, or portable garage, we’re here to make it easy and affordable.