Good for you.
You've decided to build your own wooden shed. Not only will it cost you less than a similar store-bought shed, but it'll be exactly what you want - no compromises. And perhaps most important to you is the sense of pride and accomplishment you'll feel every time you look at it.
Now your job is to build it right, and a big part of that job is to make the right decisions before you even pick up your power saw. Plan it wrong and it'll give you no end of problems. Plan it right and you're on your way to a new shed that will give you pleasure in building it, and in using it for years to come.
1. Have a clear understanding of the shed's purpose. Is it a garden shed? A bicycle shed? Firewood storage? A workspace for you? If you're going to store your riding mower in it, will you need double doors to get it in and out? Do you really need a window? Should there be a place to install shelving? Know these things before you choose your shed blueprint.
2. Be realistic about the size. Storage sheds seem to fill up fast, and you don't want to discover too late that you built it too small. If you can afford it, bigger is better, provided an oversize structure won't overwhelm your space.
3. Be realistic about the budget. Do a careful estimate of what all materials for your shed will cost you, then add another 25 percent. These projects nearly always cost more than you think. And if you're going to want paid help, don't forget about that cost.
4. Compare shed blueprints. When you're hunting for plans, find at least three or four possibilities. That will give you a better opportunity to choose what's just right for you.
5. Evaluate your own construction skills and experience. Don't choose a plan that's beyond your abilities. If you're new at this game, keep the tasks simple. Also, make certain you have all the tools you need before you start.
6. Will you have the time? It takes time to do a quality job, especially if this is your first shed. You don't want to leave your project only partially done.
7. Give careful thought to your shed's location. Don't ruin an attractive view. Don't block access to your septic tank. Make certain your shed fits comfortably into the landscape. Don't place it where water tends to pool when it rains, or on a grade that will be difficult to level.
8. Make certain you comply with rules and regulations. Check to see if you need a permit, and if your shed must be built according to local code. Check for zoning restrictions, too.
9. Study your plan thoroughly. Then do it again. It's important that you clearly understand, before you begin, exactly how your shed goes together. Once you get started, you don't want to stop every ten minutes to check the plan.
10. Choose an appropriate foundation. Usually a foundation is either wood or concrete, and occasionally gravel is used. For a big shed, concrete is best.
11. Your roof: think about the weather. In colder climates where there's plenty of snow, it may be helpful to have a roof with substantial pitch, so snow can slide off easily. Some areas insist your shed's roof must match the roof on your house.
12. The need for ventilation. If you intend to store chemicals or fertilizer, it's especially important that you plan for proper ventilation, to keep noxious or toxic fumes from building up. Good ventilation will also help keep moisture away.
The point of these guidelines is: plan. Sound planning is the foundation for your success. So when your brother-in-law says, "Did you really build that shed?" you can smile and say, "Yeah, I did."
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