We’ve answered the most common questions we hear from customers, from sizing and delivery to customization and assembly. If you don’t see your question here, contact us—we’re happy to help!
Looking for portable buildings for sale or backyard storage sheds? This guide answers common questions about sizing, customization, and cost for LP® SmartPanel or Mastic Vinyl residential portable buildings.
What size shed do I need?
It depends on what you’ll store. Options include:
Backyard storage buildings for tools and garden supplies
Sheds for riding mowers or lawn equipment
ATV and UTV storage buildings
Tractor, Auto, Truck or Boat
Workshop storage sheds. We can recommend the best shed size based on your equipment and future needs.
Give us a call! We'd be happy to answer any questions you might have!
Can I customize my building?
Yes! Options include:
Doors: single, double, conventional garage door, or roll-up door shed
Prices vary by size, material, door type, and custom features. Contact us for a free quote, including delivery and setup.
Do you offer financing or rent-to-own options?
We don't directly, but we suggest you visit your local bank or credit union for financing. We recommend Marine Credit Union.
Where can I see your portable buildings near me?
We deliver residential storage buildings locally throughout Wisconsin. Many customers find us by searching “portable buildings for sale near me” or “sheds for sale near me.”
LP SmartPanel is an engineered wood siding treated for rot, moisture, and termite
resistance. It looks like real wood and maintains a clean, HOA-friendly appearance.
Are wood storage buildings better than metal sheds?
For residential use, wood buildings with LP SmartPanel offer:
Superior curb appeal
HOA compliance
Easier maintenance than untreated wood
Long-lasting durability
How long do storage sheds last?
With LP SmartPanel, your building can last decades. Panels carry a 50‒year limited
warranty, and the roof is built for long-term performance.
Are the buildings resistant to pests and weather?
Yes. LP SmartPanel resists rot, moisture, termites, and fungal decay, making it ideal for all climates.
Can I add upgrades like lofts or shelves?
Absolutely! Customize your building with lofts, shelving, ramps, or workbenches to
maximize storage. See our Options page for more information.
What is the floor made of?
Our standard floor is 5/8" LP® Pro-Struct tongue-and-groove flooring. For garage models, or as an upgrade on other buildings, we offer 3/4" LP® Legacy tongue-and-groove flooring for added strength and durability.
How thick are the joists? 2"x4" or 2"x6"?
Standard joists are 2"x4" pressure-treated lumber for buildings 8'-14' wide. For 16' wide buildings, we use 4"x6" joists as standard, and they’re available as an upgrade for other sizes.
Is the floor pressure-treated?
Yes. All standard floor joists are pressure-treated to resist rot and moisture.
How much weight can it handle (ATVs, mowers, tools)?
Our standard floor is strong enough for most equipment, including ATVs, lawnmowers, and tools. For heavier loads, we offer a heavy-duty option with 12" on-center floor joists, which is standard on all garage models and available for other buildings.
Site Prep & Delivery
Portable Building Site Prep & Delivery FAQ
Ensure a smooth delivery and installation with our site preparation guide for LP SmartPanel or
Mastic Vinyl Siding residential portable buildings.
What site preparation is recommended?
Yes. The site should be level and accessible. Buildings can be placed on:
Ground
Gravel
Concrete
12”x12” Patio Blocks (have available for delivery)
We can provide referrals for specialized site contractors.
How is the building delivered?
Buildings are delivered direct to your property. They arrive fully assembled or built on-site. Most deliveries are completed within one hour.
Do I need a permit for a shed?
Permit requirements vary by location so call your local municipality for information.
We can provide building specifications to help with approval if necessary.
Are these buildings HOA-friendly?
Yes, LP SmartPanel buildings or Mastic Vinyl buildings are designed for a residential look that are friendly for HOA rules.
What if my site has obstacles or limited access?
Our team will review access before delivery. Our Shed Mule can maneuver between, but not over most obstacles; trees, fences, retaining walls, and other obstacles must be accounted for to ensure smooth setup. Call us with your concerns
Other Customer FAQ's
What are your buildings made of?
Our buildings are constructed with LP® SmartPanel (SmartSide® engineered wood panels), designed to look like traditional wood while offering superior durability and resistance to moisture, rot, and insects or Mastic Vinyl Siding to match your home.
Yes. LP SmartPanel is engineered wood, treated with resins and zinc borate to resist rot, termites, and fungal decay, making it more stable and durable than standard wood siding.
How much maintenance is required?
Very little. The panels hold paint extremely well and generally only need periodic cleaning and repainting as needed over time—much less maintenance than traditional wood buildings.
What sizes and options are available?
We offer a variety of sizes, roof styles, wall heights, and colors, along with customizable options such as:
Doors (single, double, or roll-up), conventional garage
Windows
Shingle or metal roofing (your choice standard)
Lofts, shelves, and workbenches
What kind of floor is included?
Our buildings feature pressure-treated floor joists, designed to support lawn equipment, tools, and typical residential storage needs. 3/4” LP Legacy flooring is optional for heavier equipment, ATV, UTV, Tractors, Cars, and Trucks.
Do I need a permit?
Permit requirements vary by location. We recommend checking with your local Municipality. We can provide specifications and documentation if needed.
How is it delivered?
The building is delivered fully assembled. Clear access is required for delivery, and installation is typically completed within one hour. Please call if you may have delivery concerns.
Are the buildings secure?
Yes. Our buildings include solid, lockable doors, and upgraded locking options are available. Windows are optional for added light or can be omitted for maximum security.
Does it add value to my property?
A well-built, attractive LP SmartPanel or Mastic Vinyl storage building can enhance curb appeal and functional property value, especially compared to lightweight or temporary structures.
Residential Portable Building Buyer Checklist
Every property and use case is different. This checklist is designed to help you think through how your building will be used, what options matter most, and what to consider before installation and delivery.
☐ What will the building be used for? (storage, workshop, mower, ATV, hobby, etc.)
☐ How often will it be accessed? (daily / seasonal)
☐ Is appearance important? (HOA, backyard, matching home)
☐ Any plans for future use or upgrades?
02
Size & Layout
☐ Desired building size (or help customer choose)
☐ Wall height needed? (standard vs taller walls)
☐ Door type(s): single / double / roll-up
☐ Door size requirements (equipment clearance)
☐ Windows needed for light or ventilation?
☐ Interior options: loft, shelves, workbench
☐ Customer aware permit requirements vary
☐ HOA rules discussed (size, siding, roof style)
☐ Offer building specs if needed
07
Security & Options
☐ Lockable door standard
☐ Upgraded locks discussed
☐ Windows optional for security
☐ Ramp needed?
08
Price & Payment
☐ Total price reviewed (including delivery/setup and extra miles charge)
☐ Down payment requirements clarified
☐ Warranty and after-sale support reviewed
Ready for your building? Let's do this!
Choose the shed that fits your property and lifestyle. Our easy-to-customize designs make it simple to pick your size, style, and features, so you can have the shed you need without the guesswork.
Serving Wisconsin and beyond with attractive functional storage and recreational buildings constructed by North Star Portable Buildings, a Family owned Wisconsin company since 2005.