Building your own outdoor storage box is a great way to get organized while saving money. Having an outdoor storage box provides a convenient place to store lawn tools, patio furniture cushions, gardening supplies, and more. With some basic carpentry skills and the right materials, you can build a customized outdoor storage box that perfectly suits your needs.

Choose a Location

When deciding where to build your outdoor storage box, consider these factors:

Convenience

Pick a spot that allows for easy access when you need to put items in or take them out. Close to the house or garage is ideal so you don’t have to carry things too far.

Visibility

Choose a location where you can keep an eye on the storage box if security is a concern. Avoid placing it somewhere too secluded or hidden by fences or vegetation.

Surface Material

Make sure the ground beneath the storage box is a solid, level surface. Concrete or pavers work best to keep it stable and prevent shifting. Avoid loose soil or grass.

Drainage

Since this will be outside, you’ll want to account for rain and prevent water pooling near or under the box. Choose a naturally raised area or slope the ground away from the storage box.

Sunlight

While some sun is fine, too much direct sunlight can quickly fade and warp the box. Pick a spot that gets a balance of sun and shade.

Access

Consider easy access for lawn mowers, wheelbarrows, and other equipment if applicable. Leave enough space to easily maneuver around the storage box.

Select a Design

Outdoor storage boxes come in many shapes, sizes, and styles. Keep these options in mind:

Size

Measure the space available and the items you want to store. Allow for some extra room too. A 4′ x 6′ or 5′ x 6′ box is a versatile size for many homes.

Height

Standard heights range from 2-3 feet tall. Go taller if you need more volume. Just keep in mind that it will be more difficult to reach in.

Shape

Rectangular or square boxes store more efficiently. But you can also do hexagonal, oval, or customized shapes.

Material

Weather-resistant woods like cedar and redwood are classic choices. Pressure-treated pine is budget-friendly. Plastics and resin hold up well too.

Features

Consider adding shelves, hooks, compartments, or other built-ins to better organize the interior. Doors, locks, and ventilation slots are also nice upgrades.

Style

Give your outdoor storage box a unique look with trim details, paint or stain, decorative hardware, shutters, flower boxes, and more.

Gather Your Materials

To build a basic outdoor storage box, you will need:

Wood boards – decking boards, plywood, 2x4s, etc. Cedar and redwood are naturally rot-resistant woods. Pressure-treated pine is economical. For a 4′ x 6′ box, you’ll need boards cut to length:
2 pieces cut to 6′ (sides)
2 pieces cut to 4′ (front and back)
1 piece cut to 4′ (floor)
Wood screws and nails
Paint / wood stain and sealant (optional)
Tools – circular or miter saw, jigsaw, power drill, hammer, carpenter’s square, tape measure, level, etc.
Concrete, gravel, paver stones, or other material for base

Optional materials for upgrades:

Plywood or boards for shelving and interior dividers
Hinges and hardware for doors
Locks, hasp, padlock
Window screen, hardware cloth, or lattice for ventilation
Exterior trim details – corner boards, latticework, plant boxes, etc.
Skids or casters for a mobile box

Shop around to find the best lumber prices. Cedar and redwood are premium woods that cost more but stand up well to the elements. Treated pine is the economical option. For plywood, use exterior grade rather than interior.

Construct the Base

It’s important to build your outdoor storage box on a solid foundation to keep it level and prevent shifting:

Option 1: Concrete Slab

Pour a 4″ – 6″ thick concrete slab that’s slightly larger than the dimensions of your storage box. Make sure the ground is well-compacted first. Let the concrete fully cure for at least one week before placing the storage box on top.

Option 2: Concrete Pavers

Lay concrete paver stones over a bed of compacted gravel. Level the pavers and use outdoor construction adhesive to keep them from shifting.

Option 3: Crushed Gravel

Cover the area with 4″ – 6″ of gravel tamped down and leveled. Place landscape edging around the perimeter to keep the gravel contained.

Option 4: Wood Platform Base

Build a frame from rot-resistant 4×4 lumber on top of concrete footers or concrete blocks. Anchor with gravel or paver base.

Build the Side Walls

The side walls tie the structure together. Follow these steps:

Cut (2) 6′ boards for the side walls.
If desired, mark and cut out openings for windows or ventilation at this point using a jigsaw.
Lay the floor board (4′ long) perpendicular to the side boards. This allows the front and back boards to overhang the floor later.
Align one side board vertically on the floor. Make sure corners are square.
Drill pilot holes and attach side board with 3″ deck screws. Stagger screws top and bottom.
Repeat on opposite side with second side board.
Check diagonally corner-to-corner to ensure the side walls are square.
To add more stability, place triangular corner gussets at the bottom corners. Attach with wood glue and nails.
Consider adding wood beams or diagonal cross braces between the side boards for reinforcement.

Add the Front and Back Walls

The front and back walls enclose the storage box:

Cut (2) 4′ boards for the front and back pieces.
Stand up the front board at the front edge of the floor. Make sure the corners are flush and square.
Drill pilot holes and attach with 3” deck screws, top and bottom.
Repeat for the back wall on the opposite side.
Check that all corners are square. Make sure the floor is centered from side-to-side.
For extra strength, attach horizontal 2×4 braces between the front and back pieces about halfway up.

Your 4 walls are now complete! You can choose to add features like doors, windows, trim, and shelving at this point if desired.

Build the Roof

There are a few options when it comes to the roof:

Simple Flat Roof

Cut plywood to fit the top dimensions.
Attach over the walls with wood screws.
Cover plywood seams with roofing tape or caulk.

Sloped Roof

Build a peaked gable style roof with 2×4 rafters.
Cover with plywood and roofing shingles or metal sheeting.

Attached Shed Roof

Construct a simple sloped roof coming off one short side.
Use 2×4 roof joists angled down from the high side.

A sloped roof looks nice but requires more work. The simple flat roof is sufficient for a basic outdoor storage box. Use exterior plywood rated for outdoor use.

Add Exterior Trim

Optional exterior trim gives your storage box a more polished, finished look:

Corner trim covers up wall edges and seams.
Installing gutters helps protect the contents from rain runoff.
Flower boxes integrated into the sides are great for decoration.
Framing the door opening makes it look more like a miniature shed.
Lattice trim provides ventilation while hiding contents.

Use cedar, redwood, or composite trim boards for rot resistance and an attractive appearance. Paint or stain the trim to match or contrast the rest of the structure.

Prepare and Finish the Wood

Proper finishing protects your outdoor storage box from the elements:

Clean Surface

Wipe down all wood surfaces to remove dirt, dust, and debris to ensure finishes adhere well.

Seal End Grain

Apply wood sealer or paint to the exposed end grains of wood pieces as they will absorb moisture the most.

Optional Stain and Paint

For added protection and appearance, apply exterior stain or paint using a brush, roller, or sprayer.

Waterproof Coating

Finish with a clear waterproofing sealant made for outdoor wood. This seals the wood grain to prevent moisture damage. Reapply ever 2-3 years.

Let Fully Cure

Allow adequate dry time for all finishes, at least 24 hours. Follow all manufacturer’s directions.

Finishing the wood properly will keep your storage box looking its best while protecting from the elements.

Helpful Tips and Variations

Use treated lumber throughout for maximum rot resistance and strength.
Elevate the floor with concrete blocks or wood runners to reduce moisture.
Add casting wheels to make the storage box portable.
Use barn door style hinges and hardware for a rustic look.
Install vents along the top to reduce inside moisture and heat.
Use plywood instead of boards for quicker, simpler construction.
Build a wrap-around bench on one side for seating and storage.
Incorporate faux shutters, tile accents, decorative hardware, and post lights.
Stencil or stencil-paint the exterior walls and trim for personalized flair.

Let your imagination run wild to create an outdoor storage box that fits your space, needs, and style! Building your own is rewarding and will result in years of enjoyment.

Frequently Asked Questions About Building Outdoor Storage Boxes

Building your own outdoor storage box can seem daunting, but it’s actually quite approachable if you break the project down into smaller steps. Here are answers to some frequently asked questions:

What size should I make the storage box?

This depends on the amount of space available and what you intend to store inside. Typical dimensions for small to mid-size boxes are 4′ x 4′, 4′ x 6′, 4′ x 8′, 5′ x 6′, or 5′ x 8′. Measure the area where it will go and the items to be stored to choose the best size. Leave some extra room too.

What materials should I build it from?

Outdoor storage boxes are commonly made using weather-resistant woods like cedar, redwood, or pressure treated pine lumber. Exterior grade plywood can also be used. Avoid non-treated woods like regular pine.

Does the floor need to be pressure treated lumber too?

Having a pressure treated floor is recommended but not absolutely necessary. Elevating the floor on blocks or runners helps prevent direct ground contact. A vapor barrier between the floor boards also helps.

Do I need a building permit to construct an outdoor storage box?

Most small to mid-size storage boxes (under 200 sq ft) typically do not require a permit. But do check with your local municipality to confirm based on codes and size restrictions. HOAs may also have rules about outbuildings.

What is the best roof design?

Sloped roofs have nice aesthetic appeal but flat roofs are simpler and sufficient. Use at least 1/2″ plywood and apply roofing tape or rolls for weather protection. Also install gutters to help manage runoff.

How do I keep the contents dry inside?

Proper finishing and sealing are key. Vents along the roofline also help. Consider lining the interior walls with rigid foam board insulation to prevent moisture penetration. You can also keep items elevated off the floor or on pallet slats.

What’s the best way to keep pests out?

Ensure doors and lids seal tightly with weatherstripping around the edges. Screening over any vents also helps keep pests out while allowing air circulation. Avoid storing food items.

How can I make the storage box more secure?

Add barrel bolts, padlocks, or slide latches to lock any doors or lids. For ventilation openings, use galvanized steel hardware cloth instead of standard screening which can easily be cut. Anchor the structure securely into the ground or foundation.

What should I use to finish and seal the wood?

Top coating with a clear exterior grade waterproofing sealant will protect the wood from moisture damage. Follow the manufacturer’s application instructions. Reapply fresh coats every 2-3 years for best results.

I hope these FAQs help you feel more informed about choosing designs and solving challenges! Let me know if you have any other outdoor storage box questions.

Conclusion

Building your own outdoor storage box allows you to save money while creating a functional, customized backyard storage solution. With proper planning and construction, your storage box can provide many years of reliable service while enhancing your outdoor living space. Be sure to use weather-resistant materials, a solid foundation, and finish with protective sealants. Added features like shelving, doors, and trim give your storage box character and visual appeal. Your belongings will stay neatly organized and protected from the elements. So grab your tools, put on your DIY hat, and start constructing an outdoor storage box suited perfectly for your needs.

How to Build an Outdoor Storage Box: a Step-by-Step Guide

Introduction

An outdoor storage box is a versatile addition to any yard or patio. It provides a handy place to keep gardening tools, pool accessories, patio cushions, and other items you want to protect from the weather and keep organized outside.

Building your own outdoor storage box allows you to customize the size, design, and features exactly for your needs. While it requires some basic carpentry skills, it is an achievable DIY project for the committed do-it-yourselfer. Follow this step-by-step guide to construct your own weather-resistant backyard storage box.

Step 1: Choose a Location

Pick a level spot with good drainage
Ensure adequate space for doors or lid to open fully
Keep close to house for convenience
Avoid too much sun exposure

Step 2: Decide on a Size

Measure available space
Consider what items will be stored
Standard sizes are 4×4, 4×6, 4×8, 5×6, 5×8 ft
Bigger is not always better if space is limited

Step 3: Select Materials

Rot-resistant woods like cedar, redwood, treated pine
3/4″ exterior grade plywood
2x4s and deck screws for frame
Exterior wood finish stain/sealant
Hardware for doors, shelves, hinges, locks

Step 4: Prepare the Site

Level and clear area
Dig shallow trench for foundation
Fill with gravel and compact thoroughly
Optional: Pour concrete pad or patio pavers

Step 5: Frame the Floor

Cut 2x4s to length for floor joists
Space 16″ on center, fasten with deck screws
Cut floor deck boards to size, drill pocket holes
Attach over joists using exterior screws

Step 6: Build the Wall Frame

Cut 2x4s for wall studs, top/bottom plates
Assemble frames for front, back and sides
Stand up walls, anchor to floor frame
Check corners for square, install braces

Step 7: Add the Roof

Option 1: Flat roof with plywood top
Option 2: Sloped gable roof with shingles
Use 2×4 rafters and roof joists for sloped roof

Step 8: Add Doors and Handles

Cut door opening(s) with jigsaw
Install hinges & handles using exterior screws
Consider barrel bolts, slide latches, locks

Step 9: Extra Touches

Add corner trim, shutters, flower boxes
Install interior shelves at desired heights
Attach gutter system to roof front/back

Step 10: Finish and Seal

Apply exterior wood stain and/or paint
Seal all edges, faces, door seams, hardware
Use clear waterproofing sealant topcoat

And that’s it – you now have a customized heavy-duty outdoor storage box to keep all your patio and yard accessories organized, protected, and easily accessible. Maintain your storage box with a fresh protective coat every 2-3 years.

How to Build a Outdoor Storage Box