The first and most important step to build a shed is the planning part, without a good plan you probably won't be very happy with your shed in the end.
Always Remember, "A Failure to Plan is a Plan to Fail!
Some questions to ask yourself while planning your new shed.
I can't help you with the size, style, or shed zoning restrictions in your area but I can help with the type of foundation, framing, siding, or roofing options.
Well maybe I can help with the size, I drug everything out into the driveway. Here I am with a riding mower, log splitter, snow blower, wheel barrow, tow wagon (for mower), push mower, string trimmer, leaf blower, and all the other stuff I plan to put in "my" shed.
This shed could end up being a lot bigger than I first thought. Anyway you get the idea, a little planning can go a long way once you decide to build a shed.
The best built shed in town isn't worth a hoot unless it has a sound foundation.
If you build a shed too close to other structures, fences, shrubs, or trees will not allow it to dry out when the wind blows and the sun shines.
Leave enough room to comfortably walk around it, plus it will make it easier to paint.
The bottom of the shed needs to be at least 4 inches off the ground to allow for air circulation underneath.
Only galvanized nails should be used in treated lumber.
If you aren't using a floating concrete slab for a shed foundation then you should use pressure treated lumber for the box sill, floor joists (on 16" centers), and floor sheathing.
Never skimp on the framing lumber for the shed floor 2X6 or even 2X8 lumber should be used if planning on storing heavy items.
This lumber need not be rated for ground contact.
Tongue and groove treated plywood is expensive but should be considered because of its ability to resist rot due to moisture. Lets face it, an outdoor shed floor is going to be wet from time to time.
If you are storing heavy stuff such as a riding mower then 3/4 inch tongue and groove should be used for its strength.
If you're building a shed on a concrete slab then pressure treated lumber should be used on the bottom plate.
If building on treated floor framing regular SPF#2 framing lumber should be used.
Consider using T1-11 siding and Smart Side 96 in. Composite Textured Trim
These materials will need to be painted but will eliminate the need for wall sheathing.
Vinyl or aluminum siding doesn't seem to fair well on out buildings.
Build the door at least 6 inches wider than you think you need. You can easily lose 3 inches of the rough opening with a hinged door.
No matter if you decide to use a hinged, sliding, or even a roll up door the location can be critical when it comes time to get your stuff in or out of the shed.
Many times the door will be located in the center of a gable end and this will make it difficult to get to stuff in the back of the shed.
Consider locating the door in the center of a long wall so you can get to stuff in the back, left, or right side of the shed.
When you build a shed one of the hardest questions is, what type of roof should I use?
I am planning a step by step tutorial on how to build a shed 8' X 12' on 6x6 treated runners.
Bookmark this page and check back often.
