If you want to build a shed from scratch, then you have set yourself a challenge. But, figuring out how to build a shed is not that difficult once you have the right set of plans and building instructions. You may not be a DIY enthusiast or a natural born carpenter, but with so many resources on the internet to assist you, that will not prevent you from building a shed you can be proud of.
Set some time aside to gather the specifics for the type of shed you like and learn the basic skills of shed construction. Above all, don’t try and run before you can walk, take a relaxed, step by step approach.
Here are a few key things to consider if you want to build a shed:
- Set Your Budget. How much are you going to spend? Know how much you can afford and keep to it. If after carrying out your investigations the cost of building the shed you want is greater than your budget, you the following choices:
- Find the additional money and increase your budget. This may mean putting off buying a new bigger TV or computer or not upgrading your car this year. If you can find the additional funds and want to spend them on your shed, then job done!
- If you can’t find the additional funds, then you have to modify your requirements to fit your budget. That may mean a smaller shed, or using cheaper materials, or going down the cheaper pre-fabricated shed kit route.
- Alternatively you may decide not to build a shed until you have saved the additional money required.
- Pre-Fabricated Shed Kits. Before proceeding lets very quickly talk about the shed kit alternative. As mentioned above, this is a realistic option if you are on a limited budget & / or if you need a shed erected in a hurry. With garden shed kits, you can choose from a variety of sizes, shapes and styles. These kits include all the materials and step-by-step instructions for constructing the shed. These kits are easily erected in a day or so by two people and very little DIY skill is required. They probably won’t be as strong, sturdy or individual as a shed you build from a set of plans, but for most folk on a tight budget, shed kits offer the ideal compromise.
- Shed Plans and Building Instructions. There are numerous websites where you can get shed plans. Some shed plans can be downloaded for free, others are available for $20 – $30 or sometimes more. Only use plans that have clear, well illustrated instructions, contain a comprehensive cutting list and details of the tools and other materials required. These plans will guide you through the construction process.
- Materials. If you have chosen a good shed plan, it will provide you with details of all the materials you require. Always try and use the best materials you can afford, but be willing to compromise on appearance to get quality. Don’t buy the more expensive knot free cladding when more knotty timber will do the job just as well and more cheaply. Search around for used timber and see what deals you can make with your local timber merchant. If you don’t mind a shed that is a bit wacky, you may be able to utilize some of the materials you and your friends have in your garages and back yards. But never sacrifice the quality and integrity of construction just to save some money. There is no point in cutting corners and building a shed that falls over in a high wind or lets in the rain in.
- Where is the best spot to build a shed? Find out what the regulations are regarding where you can put your shed. Most sheds do not require a permit but do check with you local authorities to make sure the shed you want to build does not violate any rules. Some districts insist that a shed is under a certain size and so many feet from you boundary. If your want to erect a large shed or make it a more permanent structure, you will need to talk with your local planning authority. Make sure the location has good drainage and won’t become boggy in wet weather. If you want to run power to your shed, make sure it is close enough to you current supply or the cost of armored cable might be prohibitive.
Research more about how to accessorize your shed. You’ll find lots of great woodworking ideas, garden accessories and shed organizers on the internet. Make your shed look beautiful while maximizing its storage capacity, and don’t forget about safety measures.
It takes a lot of effort to build a shed. You have to invest time to learn new skills and techniques and take the trouble to find materials and tools at a reasonable price. If you make the effort, take your time and work hard, you really can build a shed, and one that you can be proud of.
