How to Build a Lean-To Cabin

A rustic lean-to cabin can be a fun project.

Traditionally used for storage or as an addition to a main cabin's living space, lean-to cabins typically are attached to or "leaning" against another structure for support. Small in size, a lean-to cabin does not require the foundational support of a freestanding cabin. If you need a garden shed, a child's play cabin or another storage spot, building a simple lean-to cabin is a fun weekend project for the do-it-yourself homeowner.

Things You'll Need

• Railroad ties or foundation supports
• Joist hangers
• Nails
• Wood screws
• Screwdriver
• Hammer
• Hand saw
• Table saw (circular)
• Foundation stone, cement blocks or four-way deck blocks
• 5/8-inch pressure treated plywood
• 2-inch by 4-inch spruce studs
• 2-inch by 8-inch pressure-treated lumber
• Roofing materials (wood shingles, composition shingles or metal sheeting)
• Tar paper or plastic sheeting
• Insulation
• Windows and door

Instructions

1. Secure a construction permit if required in your location. (If the cabin size is less than 100 square feet and does not include indoor plumbing or electricity, many building codes consider it to be an "out-building" or storage shed that does not require a permit.) Calculate the amount of lumber required for your project. Level the construction site.

2. Construct a footing or foundation for the cabin or shed from treated timbers. Used railroad ties work well. Because the lean-to relies on the attached building for support, a traditional foundation is not required. If you are building the lean-to to be freestanding, use four-way deck blocks or concrete blocks for support. Do not place the ties or blocks directly on the ground. The foundation support should rest on a 6-inch to 8-inch layer of compacted gravel.

3. Prepare the floor frame from 2-inch by 8-inch pressure-treated lumber, using 16-inch spacing. Nail the floor joists together, using joist hangers and 2-inch nails. Measure carefully, and make sure the corners are squared and true. Position the floor frame on the lean-to foundation. Cover the floor frame with 5/8-inch pressure-treated plywood. Attach the plywood to the floor joists with nails or wood screws positioned 8 inches apart.

4. Construct the lean-to's wall frames from 2-inch by 4-inch boards spaced 16 inches apart. Position door and window placement to allow for cross-ventilation. Raise the wall frames one at a time, positioning them squarely on the floor frame. Firmly attach the wall frames to the flooring joists, using 2-inch nails.

5. Build the roof out of 2-inch by 8-inch pressure-treated lumber. Position the joists 16 inches apart. Nail the joist together, using joist hangers and 2-inch spiral shank nails. Position the roof frame on top of the wall frame, and secure with 2-inch nails driven into the wall studs. Cover the roof with 5/8-inch pressure-treated plywood. Attach the plywood to the roof joists with nails or wood screws placed no farther than 8 inches apart. Cover the plywood with a layer of tar paper or plastic weatherproof sheeting. Staple or nail the covering to the plywood. Complete the roof by installing shingles or metal roofing.

6. Cover the exterior walls with 5/8-inch pressure-treated plywood. Cover the plywood with tar paper or plastic sheeting. Complete the outside of the lean-to by covering with T-1-11 siding, wood shakes or composition shingles. Install the windows. Seal around the window frames with weatherproof caulking. Install the door hinges, and hang the lean-to's door.

Tips & Warnings

• An inexpensive, simple lean-to cabin or shed can be built from recycled or salvaged materials. Used lumber, windows or doors provide a rustic and authentic look to your lean-to and help save money.

• Always wear ear and eye protection when working with power tools.

References

• Don Vanderhorts Home Tips: How To Build A Lean-To Shed
• Small Cabin: Do-It-Yourself Cabins
• American Forest & Paper Association: Details For Conventional Wood-Frame Construction