How to Build a Small Backyard Storage Shed
As with most backyard buildings, there are numerous ways to design and build a storage shed. Standard construction techniques and materials are appropriate for sheds of almost any size. A 2 x 4 lumber frame covered with 1/2- or 5/8-inch plywood siding is great for modest sheds on a budget. You can cover the roof with plywood and asphalt shingles or roll roofing, or simply apply metal or corrugated tin roofing directly over the roof framing. The steps given here outline just one way to build a simple freestanding storage shed. Does this Spark an idea?
Other People Are Reading
Things You'll Need
- Basic carpentry tools
- Excavation tools
- Compactible gravel
- Plate compactor or hand tamp
- 4 x 4 or 6 x 6 pressure-treated timbers
- 2 x 6 pressure-treated lumber
- 3/4-inch exterior grade plywood
- 2 x 4 lumber
- 1 x 6 lumber
- Galvanized common nails
- Plywood siding
- Siding nails
- Roof sheathing and roofing materials, as applicable
- Door hardware
- 1 x 4 or other trim lumber
Instructions
-
How to Build a Simple Storage Shed
-
1
Excavate the ground in the shed area to a depth of 6 inches. Add a 6-inch layer of gravel, rake it smooth, flat and level, then tamp it with a rented plate compactor or a hand tamp. Cut two or more timbers to match the length of the shed. Set the timbers on the gravel with even spacing, and make sure they are level.
-
2
Build a 2 x 6 floor frame with pressure-treated lumber, spacing the joists 16 inches or 24 inches on center. Set the frame on top of the timbers and secure it with nails. Deck the floor frame with 3/4-inch plywood.
-
-
3
Frame the walls with 2 x 4 lumber, using 16- or 24-inch spacing. Raise the walls and fasten them together and to the floor, making sure each wall is square. Brace the walls with temporary cross bracing.
-
4
Cut and install 2 x 4 rafters, using 24-inch spacing and joining them at the roof peak with a 1 x 6 ridge board. Sheath the roof with appropriately rated plywood roof sheathing, or install purlins and any backing/bracing required for metal roofing, then install the roofing material. Sheath the outsides of the walls with plywood siding, notching the top edges to fit around the roof rafters.
-
5
Build one or more doors for the shed with a 2 x 4 Z-frame covered with plywood siding. Hang and outfit the door with exterior-grade hardware. Add trim details, such as overlapping trim boards at the wall corners, as desired.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
If you're not familiar with standard framing techniques (rafter construction can be particularly tricky for novices), consult a good reference on frame carpentry.
Sheds may be subject to local building codes and zoning laws. Contact your city's building department to discuss your project and learn about any applicable building, zoning and permit requirements.
