How to Build a Shed - I

Learning how to build a shed is not that difficult, even if you're not experienced at Do-It-Yourself, these tips will help.

Firstly, building a shed should pose few problems provided you have a good construction plan.

You could Design your Own Shed and produce your own construction plans.

With this software you start with pre-drawn layouts, doors, windows and roof styles and modify them to fit your needs. It's simple, but precise.

The software then prepares a list of materials and prints out your finished plans.

You also need some basic tools, a little aptitude and more importantly the right attitude.

If you are really adventurous you will find how to build a shed guides on the Internet that will provide you with instructions on building a shed from the ground up, using timber that you cut and form yourself.

However, I would not recommend this method unless you are more experienced. By far the best way is to either buy a shed kit or a self assembly shed.

Using a kit is probably the best method if you have not tackled building jobs like this before.

You can get Shed Building Kits on the Internet, but you need to satisfy yourself that the assembly instructions are easy enough for you to follow before you order.

Ask if you can download a sample assembly plan and instructions and spend time going over them in detail. The quality of plans and instructions can vary widely so you need to find a kit that suits your level of ability.

If there are too many instructions that leave you baffled then that kit is not for you, so look for another one.

You can also find good advice on how to build a shed by taking a trip to your local building supplier or home improvement store.

These suppliers will have self assembly guides on how to build a shed supplied with the more prefabricated shed building kits.

Unlike buying on the Internet, at your local store you'll be able to check the quality of materials supplied with the self assembly shed.

Check the type and thickness of timber, the amount of panel overlap if any, if timber is pre-treated with a preservative and the strength of the flooring.

Thin softwood untreated timber will not last as long as thicker, pressure sprayed preserved seasoned pine or cedar.

Overlapping wall panels will help to keep water out and a good strong floor is necessary if you intend to use the shed as a workshop or keep heavy tools and machinery in it.

Before starting, make sure you check the list of parts against the materials supplied. A good tip is to lay out all the parts on the ground, grouped in various sections, i.e. floor timbers, side panels, roofing materials etc and then tick them off on the parts lists.

It's better to find out before you start if anything is missing. Also check the list of tools you need and make sure you have them and they are in good working order.

How to Build a Shed - II

Household Tips & Do-It-Yourself Advice