Shed Planning: A DIY Guide

Introduction

Dreaming of extra storage space, a potting haven, or a dedicated workshop? Building your own shed can be a rewarding DIY project. This comprehensive guide will walk you through every step of the shed planning process, from initial design and navigating regulations to choosing the right materials and constructing a solid foundation. Get ready to roll up your sleeves and create a functional and stylish addition to your property!

1. Planning and Design: Laying the Groundwork for Success

Before you even think about lumber and nails, careful planning is essential. This stage sets the tone for the entire project and helps avoid costly mistakes down the road.

1.1. Defining Your Shed's Purpose

Start by clearly defining what you intend to use your shed for. Will it primarily be for storing garden tools, housing a workshop, or perhaps serving as a hobby space? The intended use dictates the required size, layout, and features.

• Storage Shed: Focus on maximizing storage capacity with shelving, hooks, and vertical organization solutions.
• Workshop: Prioritize ample workspace, good lighting, and electrical outlets for power tools.
• Hobby Space: Consider natural light, ventilation, and insulation for year-round comfort.

1.2. Determining the Right Size and Style

Once you know the purpose, you can determine the appropriate size. Consider the items you'll be storing or the activities you'll be performing. It's generally better to err on the side of slightly larger than you think you need; you can always grow into the space. Common shed sizes include 8x10, 10x12 and 12x16 feet. Shedplans.org offers a variety of free shed plans with material lists and DIY instructions, making it easier to find the right size for your needs.

Consider these points when deciding on size and style:

• Available Space: Measure your yard carefully to ensure the shed fits comfortably and meets any setback requirements.
• Aesthetics: Choose a style that complements your home and landscaping. Gable, barn, and lean-to sheds are popular options.
• Roof Style: Gable roofs offer good headroom and are relatively easy to build, while lean-to roofs are ideal for placing against existing structures.

There are various shed designs available such as gable, gambrel, and lean-to sheds. Construct101 offers free shed plans with drawings and material lists to help you choose the right design.

1.3. Creating a Detailed Shed Plan

With the purpose, size, and style in mind, it's time to create a detailed plan. You can either design your own or use pre-made shed plans. A good plan should include:

• Floor Plan: Show the dimensions of the shed, the placement of doors and windows, and any interior features like shelving or workbenches.
• Elevation Drawings: Illustrate the exterior of the shed from all sides, showing roof pitch, siding details, and trim.
• Framing Diagrams: Detail the construction of the walls, roof, and floor, including stud spacing and rafter sizes.
• Materials List: List all the materials needed for the project, including lumber, roofing, siding, fasteners, and hardware.
• Cutting List: Optimize material use and minimize waste with a cutting list that specifies the dimensions of each piece of lumber needed.

Consider using shed design software to visualize your project in 3D. DIY Sheds offers a free custom 3D plan builder that allows you to design your own shed and download step-by-step instructions and a materials list. Dinky Di Sheds and Fair Dinkum Builds also offer online shed design tools.

2. Permits and Regulations: Navigating the Legal Landscape

Before you start building, it's crucial to check with your local authorities about building permits and zoning regulations. These regulations ensure safety and prevent conflicts with neighbors.

2.1. Checking Local Building Codes

Contact your local building department to inquire about permit requirements for sheds. Regulations vary depending on location and shed size. Some common requirements include:

• Setbacks: Minimum distances from property lines.
• Height Restrictions: Maximum allowable shed height.
• Size Limitations: Maximum square footage for accessory structures.
• Foundation Requirements: Specifications for the shed foundation.

Failing to obtain the necessary permits can result in fines or even having to tear down your shed. Checkatrade emphasizes the importance of checking local regulations to avoid such issues.

2.2. Understanding Permitted Development Rights

In many areas, sheds that meet certain criteria may be exempt from requiring a building permit under "permitted development rights." These criteria typically include size limitations, height restrictions, and intended use. However, it's always best to confirm with your local authorities to ensure your project complies.

As a general rule, as long as your shed is under 2.5m tall at the eaves, situated in your back garden away from property boundaries, and intended for a use that's incidental to the enjoyment of your house, you probably don't need planning permission to build it. Waltons provides a helpful guide to planning permission for sheds.

Keep in mind that if you plan to use your shed as a self-contained living space, bedroom, bathroom or kitchen, then you'll likely need to apply for planning permission before you build the shed. Checkatrade advises applying for planning permission in these cases.

3. Foundation Fundamentals: Building a Solid Base

A solid foundation is critical for the longevity and stability of your shed. The type of foundation you choose depends on factors like shed size, soil conditions, and local climate.

3.1. Choosing the Right Foundation Type

Here are several common shed foundation options:

• Concrete Slab: Provides a durable, level surface and is ideal for larger sheds or those with heavy storage needs.
• Gravel Pad: A cost-effective and well-draining option that's suitable for smaller to medium-sized sheds.
• Concrete Blocks: Easy to install and provide good support for sheds on relatively level ground.
• Skid Foundation: Uses pressure-treated timbers as runners, making the shed portable.
• Concrete Piers: Excellent for sloped or uneven lots, providing a strong and stable base.
• Timber Frame: Can be used as an on-grade foundation, which is not permanent and can be moved if needed.

Patiowell and Shedplans.org offer detailed comparisons of different shed foundation types to help you make the best choice for your needs.

3.2. Preparing the Site

Regardless of the foundation type, proper site preparation is essential. This typically involves:

• Clearing the Area: Remove any vegetation, rocks, and debris from the building site.
• Leveling the Ground: Ensure the ground is as level as possible to prevent uneven settling.
• Compacting the Soil: Compact the soil to provide a firm base for the foundation.
• Adding a Gravel Base (Optional): A layer of gravel can improve drainage and prevent weed growth.

3.3. Building the Foundation

Follow these general steps for building a shed foundation:

1. Lay out the foundation: Use stakes and string to mark the perimeter of the shed.
2. Excavate (if necessary): Dig down to the required depth for your chosen foundation type.
3. Pour concrete (if applicable): Pour concrete for a slab or piers, ensuring it's level and properly cured.
4. Install blocks or skids: Set concrete blocks or skids on the prepared base, ensuring they are level and evenly spaced.
5. Build a frame (optional): Construct a wooden frame on top of the foundation to provide a level surface for the shed floor.

Rona provides a guide on how to build a solid foundation for your storage shed, outlining various foundation choices.

4. Framing and Construction: Bringing the Shed to Life

With a solid foundation in place, you can begin framing the walls, roof, and floor of your shed.

4.1. Building the Floor Frame

The floor frame provides a sturdy base for the shed and helps distribute weight evenly. The basic steps include:

1. Cut the joists and rim joists: Cut the lumber to the required lengths according to your shed plans.
2. Assemble the frame: Nail or screw the joists together to create a rectangular frame.
3. Add floor sheathing: Cover the frame with plywood or OSB sheathing, securing it with nails or screws.

The Home Depot offers a guide that includes how to complete the floor frame with joists and sheathing.

4.2. Framing the Walls

Wall framing provides the structural support for the shed and defines its shape. The basic steps include:

1. Cut the studs, top plates, and bottom plates: Cut the lumber to the required lengths according to your shed plans.
2. Assemble the walls: Nail or screw the studs to the top and bottom plates, ensuring they are evenly spaced (typically 16 or 24 inches on center).
3. Frame openings: Frame openings for doors and windows using headers and trimmers.
4. Sheath the walls: Cover the wall frames with plywood or OSB sheathing, securing it with nails or screws.

It may be easier to install the siding before raising the walls. This can be achieved by straightening the wall plates and squaring the wall by measuring diagonally before nailing on the siding. Family Handyman suggests this method, noting that it's easier to do on a wood shed floor because you can tack the plates to the floor to hold the wall straight and square while you install the siding.

4.3. Constructing the Roof

The roof protects the shed from the elements and adds to its aesthetic appeal. There are generally two options for constructing a roof:

• Rafters: Cut the rafters and install in pairs according to the plan. Mark the ridgeboard and the top plate to show the location of the roof trusses. Nail the ceiling joists to the top plate and the bottom of every rafter to the joist, then connect the top of the rafter to the ridgeboard. Finally, secure the sub-fascia to the rafter ends.
• Trusses: Whether you order them from the lumberyard or make them yourself, trusses make building a shed roof much easier. Connect the framing for site-built trusses with plywood gussets glued and screwed to the joints. If you decide to build your own roof trusses, the best place to assemble them is right on the shed floor before you build the walls. Family Handyman

The basic steps include:

1. Cut the rafters or trusses: Cut the rafters or trusses to the required dimensions according to your shed plans.
2. Install the rafters or trusses: Attach the rafters or trusses to the top plates of the walls, ensuring they are evenly spaced and properly aligned.
3. Add roof sheathing: Cover the rafters or trusses with plywood or OSB sheathing, securing it with nails or screws.
4. Install roofing: Install roofing felt and shingles or other roofing materials to protect the shed from the elements.

5. Siding, Doors, and Windows: Adding Style and Functionality

Once the framing is complete, it's time to add siding, doors, and windows to enclose the shed and give it its finished look.

5.1. Choosing the Right Siding Material

There are many different siding materials to choose from, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Common options include:

• Wood: A classic choice that offers a natural look and good insulation. However, it requires regular maintenance to prevent rot and insect damage.
• Vinyl: A low-maintenance option that's resistant to rot and insects. It's also relatively inexpensive and easy to install.
• Metal: A durable and fire-resistant option that requires minimal maintenance. However, it can be prone to rusting and denting.
• Engineered Wood: Offers a combination of durability, affordability, and aesthetic appeal.
• T1-11 Siding: Can be made with plywood or OSB. Plywood is more expensive but also more durable. OSB is more prone to moisture and, subsequently, rotting.
• Resin: Weather-resistant against rotting, peeling, rusting, insects, warping, and fading. It's also easier to maintain and assemble than wood or metal.

Keter offers a comparison of wood, resin, and metal sheds, highlighting the pros and cons of each material.

DuraStor Structures recommends engineered wood for durability and price, while also discussing vinyl, T1-11, fiber-cement, and metal siding options.

5.2. Installing Siding

Follow these general steps for installing siding:

1. Prepare the walls: Install a moisture barrier over the wall sheathing to protect the shed from water damage.
2. Cut the siding: Cut the siding to the required lengths, taking into account any overlaps or joints.
3. Attach the siding: Nail or screw the siding to the wall studs, following the manufacturer's instructions.
4. Trim the edges: Trim the edges of the siding with corner boards and other trim pieces for a finished look.

5.3. Installing Doors and Windows

Doors and windows provide access to the shed and allow for natural light and ventilation. When installing doors and windows:

• Frame the openings: Ensure the door and window openings are properly framed and sized.
• Install the door or window: Follow the manufacturer's instructions for installing the door or window in the opening.
• Weatherproof the opening: Caulk around the door or window to prevent water and air infiltration.

6. Finishing Touches: Personalizing Your Shed

With the basic structure complete, it's time to add the finishing touches that will make your shed unique and functional.

6.1. Painting or Staining

Painting or staining the shed protects it from the elements and enhances its aesthetic appeal. Choose a paint or stain that's designed for exterior use and apply it according to the manufacturer's instructions.

6.2. Adding Trim and Details

Trim pieces, such as corner boards, fascia, and soffit, add visual interest and protect the shed from water damage. Install these pieces carefully, ensuring they are properly aligned and secured.

6.3. Interior Organization

Maximize the functionality of your shed by adding shelving, workbenches, and other organizational features. Consider your storage needs and choose solutions that will help you keep the shed tidy and efficient.

Conclusion: Enjoying Your New DIY Shed

Congratulations on completing your DIY shed project! With careful planning, diligent construction, and thoughtful finishing touches, you've created a valuable addition to your property. Now it's time to put your new shed to good use, whether it's storing garden tools, pursuing hobbies, or simply enjoying the extra space.

Next Steps: Consider adding landscaping around your shed to further enhance its appearance and blend it into your yard. Regular maintenance, such as cleaning and painting, will help keep your shed in good condition for years to come.