Removing Our Old Junk Shed at Our Up North Michigan Property

Much of the shed is emptied and down

When we visit our 10-acre property in Central Michigan, there's usually a project waiting for us. This time, it was finally tackling the old junk shed next to our mobile home.

It was one of those sheds you almost didn't want to walk past because you never knew what might be hiding inside. Over the years, it had become our own version of a forest junk drawer; a place where things seemed to collect without anyone quite knowing what to do with them.

It was long past time to deal with it!

Two Days of Cleaning Up

Dumpster to throw trash in

We rented a dumpster for $635, and honestly, it was worth every penny. We rolled up our sleeves and prepared for two full days of cleanup.

The shed was packed with nearly ten years' worth of accumulated junk, including drywall, old windows, trash, and plenty of things we probably hadn't thought about in years.

And did I mention the heat?

It wasn't just a little July sunshine. It was the kind of heat that makes you wonder why you picked those particular days to tackle a big project!

Herb and our son powered through the work, taking breaks in the shade and using cooling towels to help beat the heat. I mostly supervised, offered moral support, and made sure they had plenty of cold water.

Someone had to keep the crew hydrated!

Taking Down the Old Shed

Shed pulled down by tractor

By the end of the second day, the shed was gone and the dumpster was packed full. We could finally see the ground where the old structure had stood.

What had once been a cluttered, overgrown-looking corner was now an open, clean space. It was amazing how much different the area looked without that old shed sitting there.

After two hot days of hauling junk and taking down the building, the cleared space felt pretty peaceful.

The old shed is gone

What's Next for This Spot?

We eventually plan to build a lean-to-style wood storage area in its place, but that will have to wait for another project season.

For now, we're happy to enjoy the extra space and the satisfaction of crossing one more long-standing project off our list.

Since we only spend a portion of the year at our up-north getaway, projects like this can take time. We have to work through them when we're there, alongside all the other maintenance and improvements that come with owning a 10-acre property.

But that's part of life between our Metro Detroit home and our seasonal escape in the woods. There's always something to work on, something to explore, or a new plan taking shape.

Sometimes progress looks like a beautiful new addition. Other times, it looks like a giant pile of trash, two sweaty days in the sun, and one less project hanging over your head.

And honestly? That feels pretty good!

Have you ever tackled a cleanup project that had been put off for years? Did it turn out to be as much work as you expected, or even more? Share your story in the comments!