How do I get a YardPod?
Option 1 (DIY):
- Select the location you feel would work best. Send us photographs of the site.
- Call us to discuss the size and style that you would like and the size and placement of doors and windows.
- We will provide a 3D sketch free of charge.
- Take the sketch to your local Planning Department to obtain information on site set-backs to ensure that you can place your YardPod where you want it.
- Check your Homeowners Association CC&R’s (if you have one).
- Consider discussing with your neighbor if they will have a view of the YardPod (they might like to order one at the same time).
- When you wish to proceed, call us to finalize the design and to request a price quote, free of charge. If you require additional design changes, we require a pre-payment of $100 per sketch.
- Review our price quote and contract, sign the order form and arrange payment.
- We will confirm and begin fabrication.
- Arrange for foundations to be prepared.
- We will deliver, normally in 6-8 weeks.
Option 2 (full service) San Francisco Bay Area only
- Invite us to visit your site for a Design Consultation, pay our $150 fee which is refundable against the purchase price.
- Meet us on site, review the location options, review the design options, finishes, etc. Agree a design.
- We will provide a 3D sketch free of charge.
- Take the sketch to your local Planning Department to obtain information on site set-backs to ensure that you can place your YardPod where you want it.
- Check your Homeowners Association CC&R’s (if you have one).
- Consider discussing with your neighbor if they will have a view of the YardPod (they might like to order one at the same time).
- When you wish to proceed, call us to finalize the design and to request a price quote, free of charge. If you require additional design changes, we require a pre-payment of $100 per sketch.
- Review our price quote and contract, sign the order form and arrange payment.
- We will confirm and begin fabrication.
- Arrange for foundations to be prepared.
- We will deliver and install, normally in 6-8 weeks.
Can I use my own design for a YardPod?
Yes. We are happy to work with you on your custom design (design fees will apply).
Can I order a larger (than 10×12) Yardpod?
Yes, we are happy to work with you on a Custom Design (design fees will apply). Permits will normally be required on larger YardPods.
Can I include a bathroom or kitchen?
Yes. This will be a “Custom Design,” see above. Permits will normally be required.
Why should I select a YardPod rather than a competitors product?
QUALITY: If you want a drafty shed that is too hot in summer, too cold in winter and which will rot in a few years, buy a shed from your local hardware store. However, if you want a high quality comfortable office or studio that will enhance your property, select a YardPod.
TURNKEY: If you live in the greater San Francisco Bay Area, take advantage of our full service option. Manufactured to your specification, delivered and installed by a licensed General Contractor, this is the fastest solution with the highest quality.
DIY: If you want to Do It Yourself and are handy with basic construction tools, or have friends who are (or a local General Contractor you trust), our DIY YardPods SP offers unbeatable speed and cost advantages. Panels are relatively light and easy to manage. Build your YardPod over a weekend.
GREEN: All materials used in YardPods are selected to be as sustainable as possible. The panels are built with virtually no waste. Because the panels are light, shipping costs are reduced. We recommend bamboo flooring, recycled insulation with excellent thermal and acoustic properties (YardPods ST). We offer cool roofs which reflect the sun and we offer highly insulated doors and windows.
PRICE: YardPods offer the best value. Compare with an equivalent site-built room which can cost $50,000 or more.
Do I need a permit?
Each authority has its own set of regulations. It is the responsibility of the purchaser to verify whether or not permits are required.
Generally, you will not need a permit in California if you comply with planning setbacks because YardPods, which are a maximum of 120 sq ft, are defined as “Detached Accessory Structures” and are supplied without electricity and water hook-ups.
If you wish to apply for permits, we can provide you with a set of architectural and structural drawings for $500.
What Kind of Foundation do I need?
YardPods can be built on traditional concrete foundations, or a concrete slab which may be required if a Building Permit is needed. Normally, YardPods do not need permits (please check with your local authority) and can be placed on pre-cast concrete blocks, on galvanized metal spikes, or on treated lumber beams directly on leveled ground or a gravel bed which is well-drained.
Will you deliver?
Yes, we can arranged for delivery of YardPod SP panels anywhere in the continental USA.
Will you assemble the YardPod for me?
We are happy to assemble YardPods in the greater San Francisco Bay Area. Outside of this area, if you do not want to Do It Yourself, we recommend hiring a local licensed general contractor.
We are also able to complete the YardPod in our factory with doors, windows and finishes completed and deliver and install it as a complete module. This is the fastest way to obtain a YardPod and offers minimal disruption, taking less than a day to install.
Can I assemble the YardPod?
YardPod SP is designed to be assembled by people who have some “handyman” skills and the appropriate tools and at least three physically fit friends to help. While the floor and wall panels are easy to put in place, the roof is a definitely a team job. If you have any doubts, please seek the help of a local licensed general contractor.
Do you install electricity?
No. We can install electrical junction boxes and conduit, but as electrical work needs an electrical permit, the wiring and connections must be made by a licensed electrical contractor.
Does a YardPod come with heating and/or cooling?
YardPods are well-insulated and with a cool roof membrane, reflect a lot of sunlight, but all buildings will revert to the outside ambient temperature when not heated or cooled. For heating, we recommend a small electrical space heater. For a more sophisticated system, or for cooling, we recommend that you contact a licensed local contractor.
Is there a solar-powered option?
When site conditions permit, we recommend adding a ground-mounted solar array complete with batteries.
Other questions?
Please contact us.
