How to Build an Outdoor Storage Shed - Outdoor Cabinets

Building your own outdoor storage shed can be a fun and rewarding DIY project. With the right planning and materials, you can create a customized shed perfect for your storage needs. This comprehensive guide will walk you through all the steps for building an outdoor shed from start to finish.

Choosing a Shed Design

The first step is deciding on the right shed design for your needs. Here are some things to consider:

Size – How much storage space do you need? Common shed sizes range from 8×8 ft up to 12×16 ft. Measure the area where you plan to build the shed to determine the maximum footprint.
Style – Shed styles include gabled, gambrel, barn, lean-to and more. Choose a style you find visually appealing that will complement your home.
Windows – Decide if you want windows for natural lighting and ventilation. A window box can add charm while providing storage.
Doors – A double door provides wider access. Or choose a classic single door with double hasp and staple for a decorative touch.
Roof – Asphalt shingles are affordable and easy to install. For a more rustic look, use metal or cedar shake shingles.
Material – Wood and resin are popular choices. Pressure-treated lumber withstands weather and resists decay.

Once you’ve decided on the size, style and features, sketch out some plans to visualize the shed design.

Choosing a Shed Location

Picking the right shed location is key to making sure your shed has adequate support and follows local building codes. Here are some tips for choosing a site:

Check with your city’s permit office for setback requirements, which dictate how close the shed can be to property lines and other structures.
Select a flat, level site with good drainage to prevent water damage. Avoid areas prone to flooding or standing water.
Place the shed close enough to your home to run electricity, yet far enough away to allow space for lawn care.
Ensure there are no underground cables or pipes before digging. Call 811 for utility line marking if needed.
Consider privacy and security. Don’t position the shed where it blocks windows or can be accessed from alleys.
Choose a spot that is easily accessible for unloading and moving items in and out.

Once you’ve selected the perfect site, mark the corners with stakes and use string to outline the shed’s perimeter.

Obtaining a Building Permit

Most areas require a building permit to construct a storage shed, even if you are building it yourself on your property. The purpose of the permit is to ensure the shed meets local building codes and zoning requirements.

Here’s what you’ll need to get a shed permit:

Application – Fill out the permit application for your municipality. This provides details on the shed size, location, materials and estimated project cost.
Plot Map – Supply a drawing showing the shed’s placement on your property with relation to property lines and existing structures.
Construction Plans – Provide basic plans outlining the shed’s dimensions, materials and structural details. If using a shed kit, the vendor usually supplies plans.
Fees – Permit fees are based on the shed’s square footage and can range from $50-$150 in most areas. Pay with check or cash.

The building department will review the application and plans to make sure they adhere to building codes. Once approved, you will receive the permit and can proceed with construction. Display the permit visibly onsite.

Preparing the Site

Once you have the permit, you can start prepping the site for construction. Proper site preparation will provide a solid foundation for your shed.

Clearing and Grading

Remove any grass, plants or debris from the area.
Grade the site with a shovel and rake to create a flat, level surface.
Add fill dirt and gravel if needed to fill any low spots or holes. Compact the soil well.

Laying a Base

A gravel base helps prevent sinking and erosion.
Excavate 2-4 inches deep and lay down landscape fabric to block weeds.
Fill the excavated area with compactable gravel and tamp down flat. This creates a stable surface.

Concrete Slab

For a permanent foundation, pouring a concrete slab is recommended:

Dig a 4-6 inch trench the size of the shed’s footprint.
Fill with crushed gravel packed down tightly.
Set rebar posts around the perimeter and across the middle.
Pour a 4-6 inch thick slab using a concrete mix. Level and smooth the wet concrete.
Allow the concrete to fully cure for several days before building.

Framing the Floor

The floor framing provides the structural base for the shed. Follow these steps:

Cut pressure-treated 2x4s and 2x6s to length according to the floor frame layout.
Assemble the frame using deck screws or 16d galvanized nails. Check corners for squareness.
Mark and drill holes for the anchor bolts using a hammer drill. Anchor bolts secure the frame to the concrete slab.
Set the outer floor joists 16″ on center. These support the plywood decking.
Install cross bracing diagonally at the corners and middle using scrap lumber. This prevents racking.
Fasten the frame securely to the slab by sinking the anchor bolts into the pre-drilled holes.
Install a plywood subfloor over the joists, using 8d galvanized nails. This creates the floor surface.

Building the Wall Frames

The wall frames form the shed’s structure and must be very straight, square and properly fastened. Follow these steps:

Cut 2×4 studs, top and bottom plates, and headers to length according to the wall frame diagrams.
Assemble each wall frame flat on the floor. Check for square and use 16d nails or 3″ screws.
Nail or screw through the bottom plate into the subfloor to secure the walls from underneath.
Install any doors or windows at this point, nailing through the framing. Follow the product instructions.
Add double top plates overlapping at the corners. Offset the seams between upper and lower plates for strength.
Square up each wall frame and tack diagonally cut bracing boards onto the outside of the studs. This keeps the walls rigid for move and installation.
Pre-build shorter sections of wall for gable ends or openings using the same methods.

Raising and Bracing the Walls

With the frames built on the floor, it’s time to tilt them up into position:

Have 2-3 helpers ready to raise and steady the walls as they are put in place.
Apply construction adhesive between the floor and bottom plate for stability and weatherproofing.
One by one, tilt up each wall, aligning the bottom plate with the floor outline. Temporarily brace walls with long 2x4s.
Check frequently for plumb and square. Have someone push from the opposite wall if adjustment is needed.
Anchor walls to the flooring using 16d nails toenailed at an angle into the bottom plate and subfloor.
Install any pre-built gable ends or wall sections using the same method.
Install permanent diagonal bracing across wall studs for lateral stability until the roof is in place.

Adding the Roof Frame

The roof structure ties all the walls together and adds strength. Follow these key steps:

Cut and install roof rafters at 16″ intervals using the shed plans and roof pitch.
Install collar ties halfway up the rafter spans. They prevent sagging and add support.
Attach rafters to the top plates using metal joist hangers for strength and durability.
Frame gable ends by nailing vertical 2×4 studs between the roof rafter ends.
Install cross bracing along the roof peaks from gable to gable for stability.
Cover the roof framing with plywood sheathing nailed every 6 inches along the edges.

Applying Exterior Siding

With the bones of the shed now complete, it’s time to add the exterior siding:

Begin with the corner trim pieces using 1×4 lumber. Then add the door and window trim.
Cut siding boards to length based on shed width, allowing for overhang. Use a miter saw for clean cuts.
Install the siding starting at the bottom corner. Overlap each board on top by 1 inch. Use 8d galvanized nails.
Work your way across and up the walls, overlapping each row of siding over the row below it.
Allow for clearance under the siding at the bottom row and cut openings for vents if adding them.
For a flawless look, caulk all seams and gaps before applying paint or protective stain.

Installing the Roofing

Protect your new shed from the elements by adding a watertight roof:

For asphalt shingles, apply 30lb felt paper over the plywood, stapling along the edges. The felt provides a moisture barrier.
Snap perpendicular chalk lines across the roof to align shingles for level courses.
Starting at the bottom edge, install shingles in an overlapping brick pattern using roofing nails.
Cut shingles as needed around corners. Place ridge caps along the peak.
For metal roofing, screw through the raised portions of the panel seams every 12 inches. Always start from the bottom up.
Attach flashing around protrusions like vents and chimneys to prevent leakage. Caulk gaps.
Allow roof sealant to fully cure before exposing shed to weather or foot traffic.

Adding Finishing Touches

Paint or stain the shed to protect the wood and make it look polished.
Install handles and locking hasp on doors for function and security.
Add corner boards, trim boards or lattice for decoration.
Grade soil and gravel around shed for drainage away from the foundation.
Stock the shed neatly and enjoy your custom storage space!

Building your own shed requires planning, patience and hard work. But the payoff is having a hand-built outdoor structure customized to your needs. Maintain your shed by cleaning the roof, checking for leaks and touching up paint when needed. And be sure to follow the required permits and codes for your area.

Frequently Asked Questions About Building Outdoor Storage Sheds

Building your own outdoor storage shed is a rewarding project you can tackle yourself. Below are answers to some common questions about constructing and using backyard sheds:

What size shed will I need?

Consider how you plan to use the shed and what you need to store. Most sheds range from 8×8 ft up to 12×16 ft. Keep in mind any size restrictions based on your property or local codes.

What is the best material for a shed?

Wood, vinyl, and metal are common options. Pressure-treated lumber is durable and resists rot. Vinyl sheds don’t require painting. Metal sheds are the strongest. Choose based on budget and appearance.

Do I need a building permit for my shed?

Most municipalities require a permit to build any detached structure over 100-200 sq ft. Even small sheds often need a permit, so check with your local building department.

How long does it take to build a shed?

With proper planning and help, you can build a basic 8×8 wood shed in 2-3 days. Larger and more complex sheds with windows, extra framing details, ramps, etc can take 4-7 days.

What kind of foundation does a shed need?

Sheds up to 10×12 ft can get by with a gravel base, but larger buildings need a concrete slab, pier blocks or piers for maximum stability. Check local codes for requirements.

Can I run electricity to my shed?

Yes. You can trench to run underground wiring, or use conduit along the exterior wall. Outdoor-rated lights, outlets, and switches should be used. Electrical work requires permits.

How much weight can a shed floor hold?

Properly constructed floors framed 16″ apart can hold between 50-75 lbs per sq ft. Add extra joists or closer spacing for heavy items like lawn tractors or wood storage.

What is the best roofing for outdoor sheds?

Asphalt shingles are affordable and easy to install. For a longer life, consider metal or rubber roofing. Some manufacturers make special shed roofing panels that are pre-cut to size.

Conclusion

Building your own outdoor storage shed is a satisfying DIY project that can add usefulness and beauty to your landscape. With proper planning and materials, you can create the perfect shed suited to your needs and property. Be sure to get the necessary permits, follow local building codes, and enlist help for lifting heavy walls and roofing safely. Invest time into careful construction techniques, and your hand-built shed will provide enduring value for years to come.