Many Vermont homesteaders start with little more than a garden shed. With some creativity, it can become a functional barn.
Planning the Conversion
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Assess structure: roof, floor, and frame must be sound.
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Sketch your layout for cages, feeders, or storage.
Simple Upgrades
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Add ventilation (but avoid drafts).
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Insulate with rigid foam or straw bales stacked outside.
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Use salvaged pallets for extra storage or partitions.
Vermont Tip
Source secondhand materials through Front Porch Forum, Craigslist, or local farm auctions. Homesteading is about resourcefulness, not perfection.