Do you have extra land in your backyard? Planning to have a shed for storage? Well, having additional space can be useful, whether it is for gardening or even your private sanctuary. You might be wondering how to build a shed if you do not have the skill to construct one. Other than that, building your shed manually is cost-effective, and you can design flexibly.
There are some things you need to know before building your backyard shed. First, you have to prepare things like budgetary planning. For some regions, building a shed needs planning permission from the regulatory body. Therefore, ensure you are already aware of this. Next, do not forget to prepare shed materials, locations, tools and equipment. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to build a shed.
Things you need to know on how to build a shed
Before you begin your how to build a shed project, ensure you already know the planning regulations. Even though you construct in your private area, some regions have strict rules regarding this issue. In the UK, you do not need any planning permission. However, there are still limits you must follow. One common rule is to pay attention to the height of your shack, which is a maximum of 2.5 metres.
It is also important to discuss your building plans with your neighbour. Will your new building block their views? Are they okay with the noise during the construction? These are some examples that could cause an issue. By discussing this, you both create a two-sided agreement, which makes you comfortable during the building process.
Do you really need a foundation for a shed?
Yes, in the process of how to build a shed, you need to build footings for a shed. It is an important step in planning. Just like building a house or any construction project, it is part of the construction stage. Even though it may not be legally required, this step can create strong ground stability and longevity.
No matter how small or big your shed is, building a foundation also brings other benefits. As your shack holds a large amount of weight, creating a strong base will make the building last longer, especially when facing any type of weather. Additionally, the foundation can protect it from moisture and keep pests out as well.
Choosing the right type of shed
Prior to delving into the practicalities of "how to build a shed," you must select the appropriate materials for your outhouse. Subsequently, this step will suit your tools and equipment needed once you get into the building process. There are three most-used types of sheds. They are wooden sheds, metal sheds, and plastic sheds.
Whether you build a small cabin or a large workspace, these materials bring their own performance and your own satisfaction. For instance, a wooden shack is a good option if you prefer a classic appearance. If you like to make them as a storage for machinery, a metal shed is a reliable one. Meanwhile, if you like low maintenance and affordable materials, plastic is an excellent choice.
Choosing the right types will make your shed’s lifespan longer, as it is an outdoor structure. Another thing to consider is the maintenance treatment. Ask yourself these questions: Are you looking for easy-to-maintain materials? Or do you want to make it look natural? Here are the types of sheds you can consider when planning how to build a shed:
Wooden shed
A wooden shed is the most popular of all types. This one gives you a natural look and is easy to customise. Most people use this because it matches any garden. A wooden shed also boosts storage, since you can easily hammer nails right into the wood to hang things.
Metal shed
A metal shed is the one if you prefer more strength. If you plan to build a structure for machinery use, you can rely on these materials. However, a metal shed can easily rust if you expose it too often to rainy weather. To address this issue, you can apply a weather-resistant coating to the material.
Plastic shed
A plastic shed is for you if you prefer a low-maintenance type. Similar to a wooden shed, this one is also popular among homeowners. The affordable price and easy-to-install characteristics are what make it so appealing to those learning how to build a shed. A plastic shed can also emulate the visual appeal of a wooden shed and is comparatively lightweight.
How to build a shed
After all the pre-assessment steps, we move to the step of how to build a shed. These step-by-step instructions will guide you in building your dream shack. The stages include determining location, preparing tools and equipment, building the base, constructing the wall frames, installing the roof, adding doors, and finishing.
The first step on how to build a shed is to ensure the location is free from stones and weeds. Second, you must prepare the tools that suit your wood materials. Third, you build the base using piles set into the ground. Fourth, begin constructing the wall. Fifth, installing the roof. Sixth, adding doors to the wall or the top of the roof, if needed. Lastly, painting the building and adding some ornaments to finish your shed. Let us take a closer look at the details.
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Determine location
Site selection is a crucial stage in how to build a backyard shed project. You have to make sure the soil is not too wet or muddy. If you plan to build a heavy-duty shack or one with a mezzanine floor, you will need a strong and flat foundation. Choosing the right spot guarantees you reliable storage that lasts for many years.
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Prepare tools, materials, and equipment
When learning how to build a shed, preparing equipment or materials for the construction process is important. Ensure you adapt your tools to the specific type of building material you select. This is important because the right tools help make sure all the parts fit together strongly. However, using the wrong tools for your chosen material can slow you down and damage the material. As a result, it can lead to poor construction quality.
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Build the foundation
Establishing the base is a critical undertaking when considering how to build a shed. It gives stability to the building. One of the things to do is pour solid concrete on the determined area. Ensure it has hardened enough before starting the construction. Other materials possible for the base are slabs, wood, and even plastic.
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Constructing wall frames
The next step of how to build a shed is to precisely cut the wall studs according to your design plan. Clear the area and arrange all the frames on a flat surface. Initiate the construction of the wall frames by joining them with screws. Mark the studs where you intend to put windows or doors later. For the corners, add metal brackets where the walls meet. It can help prevent it from coming apart.
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Installing the roof
Before installing the roof, it is considered to choose the right type and material. Similar to choosing wood, this step helps you extend the lifespan of the workspace you build. After that, start securing the roof panel using screws to screw it into the top plate of the wall. Incorporating a waterproof membrane can effectively prevent leaks.
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Adding doors and windows
Once the shed’s roof is complete, the next step in how to build a shed is to install the door frame. Position the door frame at the front of the shack. If you have already aligned it perfectly, then secure the frame with screws. The methodology for installing windows is comparable; however, you must accurately measure the space for each window. Lastly, apply a weather-resistant seal to create a barrier against moisture.
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Painting and Finishing
Skip this step if you feel satisfied enough with the building. However, painting your structure will undoubtedly enhance its aesthetic appeal. Utilise weather-shield exterior paint to provide a tough and attractive finish for your workspace. After that, personalise it with ornaments as you wish.
Conclusion
By following these steps on how to build a shed, the workspace is durable and functional. Remember to plan and choose the right materials carefully so the building process runs smoothly. Finally, decorate your new shed and add extra protection to make it look even better and last for years to come!
You can find many guidelines on how to build a shed easily. You do not need to be a civil engineer to construct one. However, if you are interested in this field, the College of Contract Management has an Advanced Diploma in Structural Engineering. We provide modules that include the basics of structural, soils, and foundations. You will attain a recognised certificate and acquire practical skills directly applicable in the real world. Come join us now!
