BROWSE HOW TOs

How to Build a Tool Shed

By eHow Home & Garden Editor

Rate: (9 Ratings)

When you own a home it's easy to acquire tools since something always needs to be fixed. But storage can be a real problem. If you don't have basement or garage space, your tools will begin to overwhelm your house. That's when it's time to build a tool shed. Read on to learn how to build a tool shed.

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Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Things You’ll Need:

Shed plans
Pressure-treated 2 by 4s
Pier blocks or concrete
Hammer
Nails
Tape Measure
Saw

Step1

Take a look at the number of tools you own and identify how much space you'll need to store them. Develop a plan to build your tool shed and draw it out on paper. Follow it closely to avoid mistakes.

Step2

Find a flat piece of land in your yard and measure to see if your proposed shed will fit. It should be in a convenient location but not obstruct any views.

Step3

Buy the following: pressure-treated 2 by 4s, pier blocks or concrete, a hammer and nails. You'll also need a tape measure and a saw.

Step4

Lay down the flooring. Here you have two options: pour a slab of concrete and build your shed on top or rest wooden flooring on four pier blocks. Consider ground moisture and cost before making this decision.

Step5

Frame the walls. As you get one wall up, see that it's plumb before moving on to the next. Don't forget to leave space for a door and, if you choose, a window.

Step6

Build the roof. The easiest way to go here is to have a flat roof sloping to the front. However, adding pitch to the roof will give it more character.

Tips & Warnings

If you are good with building but not design, consider purchasing a design on the Internet. Many companies will sell you pre-made designs and all you have to do is buy the lumber and follow the plans.
Build a tool shed slightly bigger than what you currently need. Then when you purchase more tools they'll already have a storage location.
When plotting your shed pay heed to all zoning regulations. Most cities require outbuildings to be placed a certain distance from your neighbors' yards and some require a permit to build. Check with City Hall before you build so you won't have to tear anything down.