Buying a shed or portable cabin might seem simple—until it’s not. We’ve seen it all here at Graceland Portable Buildings of Lawtey. From regret over the wrong size to site prep disasters, here are the top 5 most common mistakes we help customers avoid every day.

1. Choosing Based on Price Alone

It’s easy to get caught up in the price tag—especially when you see a big-box retailer advertising ultra-cheap sheds. But here’s the truth: most of those “deals” cut corners on materials, framing, flooring, and even ventilation. The result? A building that warps in the Florida humidity, leaks during rainstorms, or falls apart under pressure.

At Graceland, we use premium materials like pressure-treated floor joists, real wood construction, and patented vent systems to ensure your shed stays strong, dry, and cool. You might pay a bit more up front (not as much as you might think), but you’re investing in something that lasts for decades, not just a couple seasons.

2. Not Thinking Long-Term

One very common thing we hear is, “I wish I had gone bigger.” Customers often underestimate how much space they’ll really need—especially once they start adding lawn tools, holiday decorations, bikes, or even workspace.

And if you're thinking about using your shed as a she shed, home office, woodworking shop, or side hustle space, future planning becomes even more important. Don’t just think about what you need now—think 2–5 years down the road. A slightly larger building costs only a little more, but the extra space can make a huge difference in usability and comfort.

3. Ignoring Zoning or Permit Requirements

We get it—permits sound like a hassle. But ignoring zoning laws can lead to big headaches later: fines, forced removal of the building, or delays in getting your shed delivered.

Each area in Florida has different requirements. Some counties don’t require permits for portable buildings under a certain size, while others have setback rules or utility easements that affect where you can place your shed.

🛠️ Pro Tip: Before you buy, call your local zoning or building department and ask:

• Do I need a permit for this size building?
• How far must it be from my property lines or fence?
• Can I place it in my front yard or near a well/septic?

Need help? We’re happy to walk you through the process or help you locate the right info.

4. Not Preparing the Site

Site prep is the foundation (literally) of a long-lasting shed. If your shed sits on soft ground, uneven dirt, or soggy grass, you’re setting yourself up for problems. Water can pool underneath, wood can start to rot, and doors can shift out of alignment.

That’s why we strongly recommend a proper base—like a gravel pad or concrete slab—for long-term durability. Even solid concrete blocks can work for budget-conscious setups as long as they’re installed on level, packed ground.

And don’t forget delivery access! Our trucks need about 4 feet of width beyond the shed size (example, a 10ft wide shed would need a minimum of 14ft of clearance) and 13–14 feet of height clearance to get your shed in place. Ask us about our Site Prep Guide.

4. Skipping the Warranty & Service Questions

Here’s the scary part—some companies offer no real support once the building is dropped off. No warranty, no service team, no one to call if something goes wrong.

With Graceland, you’re covered by an industry-leading limited warranty. We’re not just a phone number—we’re local, and we’re here to help if anything ever comes up.

Questions to always ask:

• What’s the warranty coverage on the roof, structure, and flooring?
• Is service included if the building settles or shifts?
• Who do I contact for post-delivery support?

You deserve peace of mind—and we’re here to provide it.

Avoid the Headaches—Buy with Confidence

A shed or cabin is an investment, and the right one can add value, comfort, and flexibility to your life. Avoiding these common mistakes is the first step. Ready to find your perfect building?
👉 Contact us today