How to Convert a Storage Shed to Guesthouse

If you have a large enough storage shed, it's possible to convert it into a guesthouse, or even an exterior apartment to rent for extra money. The process is fairly simple, even if the individual skills are sometimes tricky. If you're inexperienced, get training or the help of an expert. Your home improvement center may offer classes on many of the skills you'll need to succeed with this project.

Instructions

Preliminary Steps

1. Draw a rough sketch of what you want the guesthouse to look like. Into how many rooms will you divide it? Where will you put the bathroom? Do you want to add a window?

2. Once you've finished your rough sketch, draw (or get a professional to draw) a formal construction plan.

3. Get your plan approved by the appropriate local authorities. If you live in a community with a homeowners association, you'll probably need to check with it as well.

4. Get the requisite electrical and plumbing connections set up. Unless you're a professional plumber or electrician, hire professionals to do these jobs.

5. See to any demolition, such as tearing down a wall or knocking out a hole for a window.

Rough Work

1. Cut holes in the floor needed to accommodate the plumbing.

2. Install all necessary pipes for plumbing. By the time you're finished, they should be ready for you to install the fixtures.

3. Frame in any walls you need to add, including frames for windows and doors.

4. Run any electrical wiring that's part of your plan.

5. Install insulation in the exterior walls and ceiling.

Finishing Tasks

1. Install windows and hang doors according to your plan.

2. Hang drywall for the walls and ceiling.

3. Panel, mud or plaster the walls according to your plan.

4. Install the fixtures: light fixtures, toilet, sink, space heater, fire alarm, bathtub and so on.

5. Paint or wallpaper, if needed.

6. Attach electrical outlets, light switches and covers.

7. Install flooring such as carpet, linoleum or composite.

8. See to decorative touches.

References

• Building and Customizing a Shed