Build a Garden Shed | Backyard Shed Storage Designs and Plans

Garden sheds are useful storage areas for anything from lawnmowers and mixers to gardening tools or kids bikes to barbecues, or even firewood logs. Their function is not limited to storage, though; larger sheds can make fine offices, studios or playrooms. Whatever your need, planning your garden shed should take a little time and thought or the finished shed may not be as useful as expected!

Decide first what will go into your storage shed. Make a list if necessary. What is the largest item you will store? Will a single door be enough, or will you need two? How many windows will you need? Where should they be sited? Do you need more wall space or more floor space? Should you build two sheds? Measure the area carefully, and check the doors can open wide and there is clear access to them. Ensure the ground is level; a concrete base will make your shed more stable. Never erect a garden shed onto grass or bare ground, as the wood will quickly rot. Don't site the shed near ponds, under large trees or other likely trouble spots.

Next you will need to decide on the materials. Wooden garden sheds look tidy, neat and are at home anywhere in a backyard. Metal garden sheds may look out of place in a rustic setting. They also trap heat and may be noisy in rainy weather, so while they are fine as storage sheds, they are usually unsuitable as living spaces. Vinyl storage sheds are more difficult to keep clean, so may discolor quicker. They should not be used in areas prone to heavy snowfall.

If you are confident around power tools and used to diy, you probably wouldn't be worried about building your own garden shed, especially if you are a competent artist and can design your own shed plans too. Or you may prefer to buy shed design plans and build your own storage shed.

Alternatively, you might decide to buy a garden shed kit and assemble it yourself. That way the pieces are supplied, along with nails, bolts and other fixings. All you need are a few tools such as steps, hammers and screwdrivers, and an extra pair of hands to help.
Build your own shed kits are available in various sizes and styles - barn style, pent, gable, cabana, some with veranda or porch - the choice of style and size is up to you.

If, having looked at what's on offer, you still feel strongly about building your own garden shed - go for it! Tongue and Groove is a good method; planks are secured top and bottom so create a good weatherproof finish. For best results use Shiplap where each plank overlaps its predecessor for better weather protection. Using pressure treated wood will reduce the rate of decay or rot.

Read the plans thoroughly, and ensure you have all the tools and parts you need - including spares in case of breakage! Give yourself plenty of time - don't try to finish the project in a hurry just because your Great Aunt is visiting and you want to impress her!

Ensure that you build the shed floor square and level. This is crucial! Any tiny errors here will be magnified by the time you fit the shed roof!

Having built your shed, you will need to ensure it stays looking good. Wood will need several coats of preservative or woodstain in the color of your choice. Oil locks and hinges regularly, and check for signs of damp or leaks. (Roofing felt should be replaced if water can enter the shed roof.) Fit a security lock to keep your things safe.

If you keep your shed well-maintained, it should last you for years...

Sunhouse 8 x 12 Outdoor Room

The Sunhouse makes an ideal art studio, private office, workshop, greenhouse or garden getaway that you can escape to. The angle wall windows are made with Lexan a high performance GE engineered thermoplastic that transmits up to 90% of visible light while filtering out harmful UVs.

The 8x10 Rancher gives you approximately 80 sq. ft. of storage. You would have room to park your riding lawn mower through the double doors and still would be left with room to store your other tools and toys.

Gardeners Delight Potting Shed 6 x 9

FOR THE PLANT ENTHUSIAST who has everything the Gardener's Delight makes a distinguished potting house. The sliding windowed door is easy and convenient for out-of-the-way access and allows you to get more usage out of the structure's porch.