Building your own shed can be a fun and rewarding project. It can also be less expensive than ordering a pre-built version. But if you’re wondering where to begin exactly, we’ve got you covered.

Our Experts will give you everything you need to help you build your own shed. From a list of materials, to pricing, to expert advice, we’re here for you every step of the way.

Use this guide to help you get started on designing the shed that is going to best suit your needs. Once you’ve decided to put your plans into reality, give us a call or stop into the store and we’ll help you get building.

The best place to begin building your own shed is knowing exactly what you’re going to use it for. This will determine the style and size of your shed, as well as the materials and dimensions needed.

Here are a few style examples:

Once you determine what kind of shed you want, you then need to consider:

Once you’ve got a desired style picked out, know what size you’ll need and where your shed is going to be located, you’re ready to get into the next steps. 

You will need to decide if your shed is to remain permanent in its location. On-grade foundations sit on top of the ground and are used only for smaller to medium sized sheds. If you’re looking for a permanent foundation, you’ll need to dig holes that go into the ground below the frost line. Here are a few examples of shed foundations:

The flooring of your shed will need to handle the wear and tear you put on it over the years. Concrete is a good choice because of its durability and strength, but could crack over time due to moisture in the ground between seasons. Pressure-treated plywood and AdvanTech subfloor are also great options. Depending on the use of your shed, and what you plan on pulling in and out of it, will help you decide which flooring type is best for you.

Choosing windows and doors for your sheds get you that much closer to completing a closed-in structure. As with a home, you can decide if you want windows that open or remain closed. Either way, frames made of aluminum and vinyl are great choices because they stand up to the elements quite well. If going with operable windows, you’ll want to consider locking mechanisms and size to help prevent theft. While windows create an extra chance for water to get in, they also provide much appreciated, extra light.

Doors for sheds usually fall into four categories: hinged doors, sliding doors, double action doors and garage doors. Each has their benefits for ease of use and shed accessibility. We’ll be happy to point you in the right direction as to which door would work best for your shed’s needs.

When it comes to the walls of your shed, you’ll want to choose the right lumber. Framing a shed is just as important as framing a house and using the wrong materials could create real structural issues for you down the road. Therefore, you’ll want to stick to framing lumber.

Our Experts can provide you with the entire materials list for your shed, including all lumber and fasteners needed for your wall framing.

Rafters in sheds are typically used for gabled roofs and barn and lean to styles. Rafters are important in a shed for the same reasons they are in a home. They help support the entire structure, the walls and of course the roof.

Roof materials are just as important as any other element to building your shed. You’ll want to consider waterproofing options, durability to snow and wind, and maintenance. Roofing material options include metal roofing, shingles and rolled roofing. We are more than happy to discuss the pros and cons of each when putting your shed plan together.

As with roofing options, there are many siding options available to you for your shed. Wood, vinyl, cedar shingles, engineered wood, brick, metal, T-111 and more. Again, it is important to consider weather and maintenance, as well as aesthetic appeal, when choosing your siding material. You’ll want your shed to last a long time and you’ll want to enjoy looking at it. A beautiful shed can be a nice complimentary piece to your property and your siding will help complete that picture. 

Our Experts will break down all of our available materials for you so you can decide which is right for you.

All of your choices above will determine what kind of hardware and fasteners you’ll be needing to complete your project. After we’ve figured out the best materials for your entire structure, we’ll give you an exact list of hardware and fastener materials needed to build your shed into reality, including Simpson Strong Ties and Simpson Hurricane Ties. 

Looking to get started on creating your perfect shed? Ask our Experts any questions you have (even if it’s “how do I get started?”). We are happy to help you get your shed up and running, the proper way, and so you can enjoy it for years to come.