How Our Sheds Are Built vs the Competition
Every spec that separates a shed that lasts 30 years from one that needs replacing in 10. We don't cut corners — here's the proof.
| Build Spec | North Texas Shed & Steel | Typical Competitors |
|---|---|---|
| Floor Skids | 4×6" pressure-treated notched skidsNotching locks joists in place — the floor won't rack when moved or loaded. | 4×4" skids or two 2×6s nailed together |
| Wall Framing | 2×6 studs50% more wood mass per stud. Stronger walls, better insulation depth, longer lifespan. | 2×4 studs |
| Stud Spacing | 16" on center, doubled every 4', tripled in cornersDoubled and tripled studs at structural intervals add rigidity where it matters most. | 16" or 24" on center, no doubling |
| Top Plate | Double top plate with hurricane screwDouble top plate distributes roof load across the full wall system. Hurricane screw ties roof to wall. | Single top plate |
| Floor Decking | 5/8" LP ProStruct T&G standard on sheds; 3/4" tongue-and-groove standard on garagesTongue-and-groove joints eliminate gaps. Standard sheds get 5/8" decking, while garage models step up to 3/4" for heavier loads. | OSB or plywood |
| Siding | LP SmartSide engineered wood — 50-year warrantyLP SmartSide resists rot, hail, and termites. T1-11 is commodity plywood with paint. | T1-11 panel siding or commodity alternatives |
| Lumber Grade | Premium or high-choice house-gradeHouse-grade lumber is more consistent, fewer defects, and dimensionally stable. | Select grade |
| Gambrel Loft Stud Height | 75" studs + double top plate3 extra inches lets the 2×6 loft floor joists sit on top of the double top plate — the highest load capacity achievable in a shed roof system. | 72" studs |
| Loft Floor Joists | 2×6 loft floor joists2×6 joists carry significantly more load and reduce flex. Critical if you are storing heavy items in the loft. | 2×4 loft floor joists |
| Roof Trusses | Metal cleated pressed roof trussesMetal cleats are stronger, more consistent, and do not split or loosen over time. | Standard wood gusset trusses |
| Roof Material | 29-gauge R Panel metal — 30-year rust-through warranty, OSB-lined for wind ratingMetal roofing holds up to North Texas hail, wind, and UV. OSB lining is required for proper wind resistance ratings. | Shingles over felt or bare decking |
| Paint | 1-coat urethane paintUrethane lasts roughly twice as long as alkyd enamel. Less maintenance, better color retention. | Alkyd enamel |
The Lofted Gambrel Difference
Our lofted gambrel sheds are engineered with 75" wall studs — not the industry-standard 72" — plus a double top plate. That extra 3 inches lets the 2×6 loft floor joists sit on top of the double top plate rather than inside it. The result is a roof truss sitting on a 2×6 loft joist on top of a double top plate — the highest load capacity you can achieve in a portable shed roof system. No other configuration gets close.
View floor weight limits by decking type →Common Questions
What size skids do your sheds use?
Our sheds use 4×6" pressure-treated notched skids. Most competitors use 4×4" skids or nail two 2×6s together — neither matches the structural integrity of a solid 4×6 notched system.
What framing size do your sheds use?
We frame with 2×6 studs on 16" centers, doubled every 4 feet and tripled in the corners. Most sheds in the market use 2×4 framing, which significantly reduces wall strength and insulation capacity.
What floor decking do you use?
Standard shed models use 5/8" LP ProStruct tongue-and-groove flooring. Garage models step up to 3/4" tongue-and-groove flooring standard. We do not use basic OSB or plywood floor decking that absorbs moisture and breaks down faster.
What siding is on your sheds?
We use LP SmartSide engineered wood siding with a 50-year warranty. We do not use T1-11 panel siding or other commodity alternatives.
What grade lumber do you use?
We use premium or high-choice house-grade lumber throughout. Competitors commonly use select-grade, which is a step down in quality and consistency.
What roof system do your sheds use?
Our sheds have metal cleated pressed roof trusses and residential-grade 29-gauge R Panel metal roofing with a 30-year rust-through warranty, lined with OSB for wind rating.
Come See the Difference In Person
Walk through buildings on our lot. Pick up the floor. Look at the framing. The quality is obvious the moment you step inside.