The only real difference between portable sheds and traditional sheds is portability. Portable storage buildings don’t have to sacrifice structural stability for mobility if the portable shed is secured properly with the right equipment.

However, not everyone needs mobility in their sheds. If you don’t have any plans to relocate a storage building, there’s nothing wrong with having the structure installed on a concrete slab for anchoring.

What Are Portable Storage Buildings?

Portable storage buildings are built on a unique foundation designed for easy relocation. Unlike traditional sheds that are permanently anchored to the ground, these buildings are designed to be moved without significant disruption. The foundation of a typical portable storage building includes a robust wood floor framing system and leveling pads that enhance the building’s load capacity, stability and resistance to settling.

For instance, the foundation for some portable buildings, like ours at Bestway Portable Buildings Inc., includes 4x6 skids supported by 18”x18” Lexan mobile home pads and cement blocks for leveling. These leveling pads increase the weight-bearing capabilities of the structure and make it highly resistant to settling, even in variable soil conditions.

What Are Traditional Sheds?

Traditional sheds are fixed, permanent structures typically built on a concrete slab or another type of immovable foundation. These sheds are ideal if you’re looking for a long-term solution that won’t be relocated. Traditional sheds are highly customizable and offer many design options, including various roofing materials, windows and doors.

While they are stable and resilient, traditional sheds require more preparation work for the foundation, and they can be challenging to remove or relocate if you ever need to make changes to your landscape.

Key Differences Between Portable Storage Buildings and Traditional Sheds

Foundation and Stability

• Portable Storage Buildings: The foundation of a portable storage building is built to be both strong and flexible, with skids that rest on mobile home pads and cement blocks. These leveling pads not only provide a stable base but also make the structure resistant to settling, even in areas with uneven ground. Helical mobile home anchors can be used to stabilize the building further, which is especially important for properties in the Panama City area that are subjected to high winds.
  
  
• Traditional Sheds: Typically built on a concrete slab or permanent foundation, traditional sheds are highly stable but not designed to move. Their foundation offers great durability but may require more time and investment to install.

Installation and Relocation

Installation for a portable storage building is typically simpler and faster, as it requires minimal site preparation. Once placed on mobile home pads and leveling blocks, the building can be stabilized with helical anchors. Should you need to move the building, it’s relatively easy to disconnect the anchors and relocate it.

Installation for a traditional shed is more complex, as it usually requires pouring a concrete foundation and ensuring proper drainage. These sheds are meant to be permanent fixtures, so once installed, they are challenging and costly to move.

Durability and Maintenance

Despite their portability, these structures are durable and require minimal maintenance. The use of high-quality materials like treated wood for floor framing and sturdy Lexan mobile home pads and cement blocking for the foundation provides a solid base that resists settling. Helical anchors add a layer of durability by securing the building to the ground, even in harsh weather conditions.

Built with durability in mind, traditional sheds often last for decades with proper maintenance. The concrete foundation provides a stable base, reducing the risk of shifting or settling.

Versatility and Customization

Portable buildings offer flexibility in location, which can be a significant advantage if your storage needs change over time. You can add windows, doors, shelving and lighting to make the space more functional. If you’re interested in a temporary setup or need a storage solution that can move with you, a portable building offers convenience and adaptability.

Traditional sheds allow for extensive customization. You can add built-in shelving, loft areas or custom doors to create a space suited to your needs. However, the customization is more permanent, as traditional sheds are intended to remain in one location. This limits flexibility but provides a highly tailored storage solution.

Cost Considerations

While pricing depends on the materials and design, portable storage buildings generally offer an affordable solution with lower installation costs due to the simpler foundation. Additionally, the ability to move the structure can be a cost-saving benefit since you don’t need to have an entirely new shed installed if you ever decide to relocate.

Traditional sheds often come with a higher initial cost due to the permanent foundation and extensive site preparation. However, because they’re designed for longevity and customization, they may provide a good long-term investment for property owners who want permanent storage or workspace.

Finding the Right Storage Solution in Panama City, FL

If you’re interested in exploring options for portable storage buildings, our experts at Bestway Portable Buildings Inc. can help you find a solution that suits your needs.

Contact us today on our website or give us a call at (850) 747-8974 to learn more.