In a recent episode of The Building Texas Show, recorded live at the San Antonio Home and Garden Show, Tuff Shed representative Richard Castellanos made a compelling case for homeowners to replace monthly storage unit fees with a permanent backyard structure. The podcast, hosted by Justin McKenzie, is the first installment of the San Antonio Home and Garden Series and was published on August 30, 2026.
Castellanos emphasized the practical advantages of owning a Tuff Shed, particularly the 24/7 access that rental units cannot match. "A majority of our business is residential, obviously, but they want to get out of their storage unit that they're paying for, get something on their property that they can access 24/7," he told McKenzie. The episode also highlighted how Tuff Shed's employee-ownership model enhances the customer experience. "It's not just me as a sales design consultant trying to sell you a product. It's actually me trying to get you an experience that one, you're going to recommend to your friends and two, is going to keepsake your valuables, your memorables that you're storing in your shed," Castellanos explained.
The conversation delved into the technical aspects that San Antonio buyers often overlook, such as the city's 300-square-foot threshold for building without a permit and the varying regulations in municipalities like Castle Hills and Alamo Heights. Castellanos also detailed the construction quality, noting that Tuff Sheds are stick-built with 2x4s at 16 inches on center, with options for 2x6 or 2x8 upgrades on larger designs like two-story barns. Beyond residential use, he mentioned commercial applications for school districts, government entities, and even San Antonio Air Force bases, as well as the Woodmaster's division that offers portable structures like chicken coops and greenhouses.
Tuff Shed's history was also part of the discussion, with founder and CEO Tom Saurey launching the company 45 years ago. Today, it operates 74 factories across the United States. For San Antonio residents, Castellanos pointed to two South Side locations outside Loop 410, including a display yard at 410 and Bandera where he is based, and a newer location off I-35 in New Braunfels. Turnaround time is currently one to two weeks from design to build slot, with actual assembly typically completed in a single day. Interested customers can also explore self-design options at toughshed.com before contacting a consultant.
The episode underscores a growing trend among homeowners seeking to maximize property value and convenience. By investing in a backyard structure, they not only eliminate recurring costs but also gain immediate access to their belongings. The Building Texas Show, which profiles operators and entrepreneurs shaping the state's construction landscape, provides a platform for such practical discussions. Episode 1 of the San Antonio Home and Garden Series is available now wherever podcasts are heard.
