Great Shed Plans

Storage sheds can come in very handy when you need to store your garden equipment or need to protect your garden furniture in the winter. If you are building a shed for the first time, start by researching the construction of a shed. You will see sheds are very basic structures that are simple to build. Here are seven basic steps you might find useful.

1: Building the foundation

Before you begin construction of the foundation, you will first need to choose a location. Choose a location were there will have good drainage. If water pools near your shed foundation, you can slope the ground to direct the water away from the foundation.

The two most common foundations used are the skid foundation and the concrete foundation. A concrete foundation will be permanent, unlike the skid, choose the location wisely. Begin by clearing out and leveling the area.

For a concrete foundation you will need to build forms. Lay a layer of wire mesh to provide reinforcement and prevent cracking and pour the concrete. If you feel uncomfortable building a concrete slab foundation, consider a skid foundation. Building your shed on a skid foundation is the preferred method for many do-it-yourselfers.

A skid foundation will consist of the skids, usually 4×4 pressure treated lumber, pressure treated floor joist, pressure treated floor bands, and the plywood decking. You will assemble these parts, before you install the plywood decking you will need to square it out. Measure diagonally, shift the frame until both sides measure the same, and install the floor decking. To protect the foundation from rot and decay, prepare a gravel base. Preparing a gravel base by removing about four inches of soil, about twelve inches wider than the shed, and fill it in with gravel.

2: Faming and installing the walls

Framing lumber will be used for the wall frames. The wall frame will consist of the wall band on top and bottom, and the wall studs in between the wall bands. Next raise the walls and nail them to the foundation. If the shed walls are not that big, you can install the siding while it is still on the floor and then raise it.

3: Building roof frame

Building the roof frame is probably the hardest part in the construction of the shed. Take your time when cutting the angels on the rafters. Once you have your first set of truss assembled, use it as a template to build the rest. If the roof truss are not all exactly the same, the roof will not be even. I use a miter saw to cut all the framing materials, it makes cutting angels fast and simple.

4: Siding and roof decking

There are many choices when it comes to the siding. The most popular is the T-11 exterior siding. It’s cheap and simple to install. Install the siding of your choice to the walls. Install and nail the plywood decking to the roof frame.

5: Doors and windows

There are many options for a shed door. You can build your own or buy a door that is already made or even install an overhead garage door. Depending on your needs and how you plan to use this space you can decide what will work for you. Double shed doors are very common for sheds. Building your own double shed doors will make your shed very functional and save you money. For a good results find free plans or buy plans when building a shed, plans will have all the details for the door, and step-by-step instructions. Installing windows on a shed is optional. If you will be installing windows keep in mind how the sunlight will affect the shed. Windows can bring in light making it easier to see, but it might also bring in to much heat.

6: Installing shingles

Working on the roof can be dangerous, think safety and take precautions.

Cover the roof plywood decking with roofing felt before installing the shingles. Roofing paper will keep the plywood decking safe from leaks that might develop.

There are many styles, types and sizes of shingles available. When installing follow the manufactures instructions for proper installation.

7: Trim and paint

To give your shed the finish touch, adding details such trim and paint will make the shed look beautiful. Painting or staining will not only make it more attractive, it will also protect it from the weather and make it last many years.

Be aware of any permits or regulations before you begin this project. Having detailed building plans will make building your shed easier, and you will also get better results.