How to Build an Outdoor Shed - Outdoor Cabinets

Building your own outdoor shed can be a rewarding and cost-effective way to add storage or workspace to your property. With the right planning and materials, you can construct a high-quality shed tailored to your needs. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the entire process of building an outdoor shed, from laying the foundation to adding finishing touches. Follow these steps and you’ll have a custom shed to enjoy for years to come.

Choose a Suitable Location

When deciding where to build your shed, keep these factors in mind:

Sun exposure – Avoid low, shady spots where water could collect. Ideally choose a spot with at least some daily sun to discourage mold growth.
Drainage – Make sure the site doesn’t collect water when it rains. Consider grading or adding gravel to improve drainage if needed.
Access – Pick a location with a clear path to move lumber and tools. Having access to electricity is also helpful.
Distance to house – Comply with local codes for distance from existing structures. Leave enough room to walk around the shed.
Aesthetics – Choose a spot that makes visual sense for your yard, while following zoning rules.
Utilities – Call 811 before digging to avoid hitting any buried electric, gas, water or sewer lines.

Once you’ve selected a good site, mark the corners with stakes and use spray paint or flour to outline the foundation.

Obtain Building Permits

Most areas require permits to build any detached structures on your property, including sheds of all sizes. The permit application will likely need to include your site plan, shed dimensions and planned materials. Apply for this permit before starting any work.

Choose a Shed Design

There are many factors that will determine your ideal shed style:

Size – Calculate how much interior floor space you need to store everything. Allow extra room to move around inside.
Function – Determine how you’ll use the space. For garden tools, go with lots of shelves. For workshop space, add windows and benches.
Features – Decide if you need electricity, windows, skylights, ventilation, insulation, loft space or other extras.
Aesthetics – Select a style that fits with your home. Lean-to sheds attach to existing walls. Gambrel roofs add charm.
Construction – Simple lean-to and square sheds are good beginner projects. Consider buying pre-cut kits for more complex styles.
Budget – Prices range widely based on size, materials and features. Nail down plans to match your budget.

At minimum, your shed should include completed wall and roof framing, exterior siding, one entrance door, and a proper floor system.

Choose Materials

Use these guidelines when selecting lumber and other supplies:

Framing – Use pressure-treated lumber rated for ground contact. 2x4s and 2x6s are common for wall framing.
Exterior siding – Options like T1-11, LP SmartSide or vertical boards provide weather protection and look nicer than unfinished plywood.
Roofing – Asphalt, metal, and cedar shingles are all shed-worthy roofing materials.
Foundation – Choose from concrete slab, wood skids, gravel, pavers, or patio blocks.
Hardware – Use galvanized or stainless steel nails, screws, hinges and brackets to avoid rust.

Shop early, as shed materials often need to be special ordered. Having all materials on hand makes the project smoother.

Prepare the Site

Construct a solid, level foundation for your shed to prevent shifting and moisture damage:

Dig deep enough to avoid frost heave, around 18-24” in most climates.
Fill with gravel and compact with a plate compactor. Level and smooth the surface.
For concrete slabs, build forms and reinforce with rebar before pouring and leveling concrete.
Sheds on skids or blocks need extra gravel and drainage accommodations.
A crushed rock base topped with pavers or concrete makes a nice surface.

Plan on a foundation at least 18” wider than the shed on all sides for stability. Take time to make the base solid, level and square before building up.

Frame the Floor

The shed floor framing provides a sturdy base to build upon. Follow these steps:

Cut the floor joists – standard 2×6 or 2×8 boards work for most shed plans. Match the length to your layout.
Mark joist positions on the foundation, 16” on center. Use a chalk line to keep rows straight.
Fasten end joists to the foundation using galvanized hangers and bolts into concrete or lag screws into wood.
Install remaining joists using metal joist hangers and wood screws. Measure diagonally to double check for square.
Add plywood or OSB on top, screwed into joists. Use pressure-treated wood if exposed to moisture.

Leave the edges of flooring flush with the foundation for easier shed wall construction.

Build the Wall Frames

The wall framing provides structural integrity and a surface to attach siding:

Cut wall studs (usually 2x4s or 2x6s) to length according to the plans. Mark locations for doors and windows.
Assemble door and window headers from double members. Cut cripple studs to go above and below.
Attach bottom wall plates to the floor using anchor bolts.
Toe nail the top plate to studs laid out 16” o.c. Check for square and use temporary braces.
Nail on lateral bracing and blocks where needed for shelf supports, siding attachment, etc.
Frame any window or door openings with additional headers and studs.

Having another person helps raise and stabilize walls as you work. Don’t erect walls too far ahead of sheathing.

Add Exterior Sheathing

Adding sheathing encloses the shed shell and strengthens the walls:

Cut plywood or OSB sheets to fit each wall section. Use 8d galvanized nails.
Align sheet edges (end joints) with studs for support. Stagger seams between rows.
Try to align the top with the pre-installed top plate for stability. Use a hand saw for custom cuts.
Gap sheathing 1/8” on all sides and 6mm where walls meet roofs. This allows expansion room.
For looks, avoid exterior sheathing seams on the front wall or use trim to cover them.

Use 8′ x 4′ plywood sheets oriented vertically for best span across studs. Have someone help lift and hold panels in place while nailing.

Attach Shed Doors

Follow these tips to hang shed doors that operate smoothly:

Use 2x4s to frame the door opening on the shed wall. Leave 1/2″ gap all around for adjustments.
Hang pre-assembled doors in the center of the gap. Use shims as needed for plumb alignment.
Install three 4″ galvanized hinges per door. Attach to framing with 2 1/2″ screws.
Test operation and use shims to correct any sagging or rubbing. Adjust until 1/8″ gap all around.
Caulk around the door perimeter with silicone once final adjustments are complete.

Install any latches, hasps, deadbolts or door handles at this point for easy operation.

Build the Roof Frame

Construct a sturdy roof frame pitched for effective water drainage:

Cut pairs of rafters from 2×6 or 2×8 lumber for each truss. Use a rafter angle jig for accurate and consistent angles.
Assemble trusses on the ground, gapping the rafters at the peak to accept a ridge board.
Hoist completed trusses up to the wall top plates and anchor using hurricane ties.
Install collar ties between rafters for extra strength if not using a continuous ridge beam.
Add framing for overhangs, dormers or skylights if desired.
Sheath the roof using plywood, OSB or boards. Leave a 6mm gap at joints.

Check building codes for required snow load ratings and truss spacing. Add bracing as needed before sheathing.

Install Exterior Siding

Quality siding protects the shed from weather and gives it an attractive finish:

Start with the back wall, using the lowest corner as a reference point. Work clockwise.
Install 1×3 or 1×4 furring strips vertically if needed to level the surface.
For lap siding like T1-11, overlap upper panels over lower ones. Nail every 6-12”.
For vertical boards, use trim to cover seams. Keep alignment straight as you go.
Around doors and windows, measure and cut siding to fit neatly. Maintain recommended gaps.
Finish outer corners with corner trim boards, JO-series flashing or mitered cuts.

Take time with the front wall siding for the best curb appeal. Step back periodically to spot any gaps or high/low spots.

Install Roofing Material

Follow these tips to properly roof your shed:

Start at the bottom edge, using full-length sheets. Overlap upper pieces.
For asphalt shingles, cut starter strips and align first row with roof edge.
Nail in the tar line only, not through the entire shingle. Follow specified nailing pattern.
Interlock seams and stagger shingles between rows. Leave 5/8″minimum overhang.
Use plastic cement to seal any un-nailed areas vulnerable to uplift.
Apply ridge caps along the peak last, centering the overlap on seams.

Follow all manufacturer specifications for proper installation, overlap, fastener type/size and sealant use. Improper roofing can lead to leaks or blow-off.

Install Windows

Adding windows provides natural light, ventilation and ambiance:

Measure and cut an accurate opening in the sheathing using a circular saw.
Frame the opening with trim boards, keeping them plumb and square.
Set the window in the center of the opening. Shim as needed to plumb it.
Attach using galvanized trim head screws into surrounding framing. Caulk perimeter gaps.
Check operation and adjust shims until the window operates smoothly.
Install exterior trim boards around the window. Use corner boards or build a header.

Choose acrylic, polycarbonate or vinyl windows made specifically for sheds if security is a concern.

Add Interior Details

Apply finishes to complete the interior space:

Install vapor barrier on inside walls. Use panels of 6 mil plastic or kraft faced insulation.
Attach horizontal furring strips or 1×2 strapping over the vapor barrier.
Screw or nail interior siding over strapping to finish the walls. Use paneling, plywood, beadboard, etc.
Build and install shelving at desired heights. Leave room for tall items.
Paint or stain walls. Apply polyurethane or tool enamel for durability and wipe-ability.
Cover the floor with OSB, plywood or vinyl sheets. A coat of concrete sealer also works.
Add benches, storage systems, work tables, appliances or other items as planned.

Good lighting, ample electric outlets, ventilation and some heating extend the shed’s functionality.

File for Electrical Permit

If adding lights, outlets or other wiring, be sure to:

Have an electrician evaluate your wiring plan and materials.
Hire a licensed electrician if uncomfortable doing this work yourself.
File the needed permit application with your local building department.
Have the finished work inspected before using the new electrical system.

Use GFCI outlets and water-resistant fixtures like LED lights in the shed interior. Bury and protect exterior wiring in conduit.

Finish Exterior Details

Final touches give your shed a polished, complete look:

Caulk all seams, gaps and exposed nail/screw heads with exterior silicone caulk. Smooth for a neat appearance.
Paint or stain siding and trim to protect from weathering.
Install an exterior light fixture by the door for visibility.
Finish the area around the shed with gravel, mulch or decorative pavers.
Add rain diverters, guttering and downspouts if not part of the original design.
Build steps, ramps or landings if needed to access the shed entrance.

Stand back and enjoy your new backyard shed once all details are complete! Be sure to maintain your shed with repairs as needed over the years.

Frequently Asked Questions About Building an Outdoor Shed

Building your own shed for the first time? Here are answers to some common questions:

What size shed will I need?

Consider what you intend to store, then add some extra space to move around. Most sheds are between 8-12 feet deep and wide, with sloped roof heights around 10-12 feet. Small lean-to sheds may be as small as 2×4 feet.

How do I make sure the shed is level?

Creating a perfectly flat and level shed base is crucial. Use graduated poles and line levels while preparing the site. Check for level in all directions as you build up the foundation. Shim as needed before constructing walls.

What is the best and cheapest foundation for a shed?

Gravel or crushed stone compacted over landscape fabric works for most sheds under 200 sq ft. Larger sheds benefit from a poured concrete slab or pier footings. Wooden skids are the most budget-friendly foundation option.

Should I build my own shed or buy a kit?

For beginners, pre-cut kits with pre-drilled framing offer simplicity. If you have carpentry skills, custom-designed plans give more flexibility. Kits range from basic to high-end with floors, windows, ramps, etc.

How do I safely cut OSB and plywood?

Use a circular saw equipped with a sharp plywood blade for clean, accurate cuts. Wear eye and ear protection – long sleeves help reduce irritation from fibers. Make cuts in a ventilated area and sweep up dust.

What is the best way to join two boards together?

For framing, fasten boards end-to-end at joints with gusset plates. Where boards meet at corners, toenail them with angled nails or use metal joist hangers for more support. Apply wood glue before fastening.

How much ventilation does my shed need?

Proper airflow discourages moisture buildup. Allow for ventilation equivalent to 1/150th of the floor area. For example, a 100 sq ft shed needs about 0.5 sq ft of venting. Add screened vents near the roof for best airflow.

Conclusion

Constructing your own shed requires planning, patience and hard work, but the payoff is worth the effort. Follow the steps outlined here to build a high-quality storage shed or workshop customized to your needs and property. Don’t be afraid to adapt plans or techniques to fit your own style. Building something with your own hands is deeply rewarding. Once your new shed is complete, put it to good use!