How to Build an On-Site Storage Building
Sketch a storage building that will look good with existing structures. A poorly designed storage building can detract from the appearance of a home or commercial business. By giving thought to the shape and materials of the structure, you can build a storage building that adds property value. The style of the building and the shape of the roof are important, but color of paint and trim are also crucial. Does this Spark an idea?
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Things You'll Need
- Needed items
- Exterior grade paneling
- Salt-treated lumber
- Particle board sub-flooring
- Nails and screws
- Electric screwdriver
- Tar paper
- Asphalt shingles
- Various saws
- Exterior grade paint
- One or two windows
Instructions
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Design a building that would look stylish in almost any setting. Invest time to draw a building that harmonizes with buildings and landscaping in the vicinity. It doesn't cost more to create a nice-looking storage building. The design and details don't cost anything. If possible, buy all new materials to construct the building. Shape, colors, and the roof line will have a lot to do with creating a structure of which you will feel proud.
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Sketch the basic dimensions of the storage building. Make it at least 10 feet by 12 feet. You will need to construct the flooring support beams from 2-inch by 12-inch boards. The walls and roof area should be made of 2-inch by 8-inch lumber. Include a wide double-door opening in the building for moving equipment and large stored items in and out easily.
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Design a roof line that harmonizes with the roof line of a house or surrounding buildings. Always have at least two helpers in addition to yourself. Lifting framework and exterior-grade plywood into place is very labor-intensive. Build the storage building on a concrete slab, if possible. If there is no concrete foundation, construct the flooring of the building at least six inches off the ground. Screw or nail particle board sub-flooring on the floor area. Install particle board or exterior-grade plywood on the framework of walls and the roof area. Insulate the building and wire it for electricity, if desired.
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Nail or screw exterior-grade paneling material to the exterior of the building. Install asphalt shingles on the roof. Add trim and molding to the exterior to enhance the craftsmanship. Build heavy-duty doors and install them on durable hinges that will easily support their weight. Install a locking system into the entry, if desired.
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Paint the exterior of the storage building using at least two solid coats of exterior paint. Paint will protect the surfaces from rotting over time. Or, apply waterproof stain to wood surfaces and exterior walls of the storage building, if appropriate.
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Tips & Warnings
Leave room for a couple of windows in the storage building if you want to look inside periodically. Windows also can provide some venting on hot days. Windows will also provide interior light to help you search for tools or other items in the building on dark days.
Municipal or county governments might require a building permit. Check on local requirements before you begin. Always keep a storage building locked when not in use. This prevents accidents when small children wander into the vicinity of the building. Have at least three sets of keys made for the building lock system and hide the keys inside your home or garage area.
