Building a storage shed

There are lots of storage shed plans available online to help you fill the perfect space in your landscape. Storage sheds can be a convenient solution for keeping seasonal or little used items available but out of the way, and the addition of storage can help make your household run more efficiently and increase the value of your home.

When evaluating potential storage sheds, build your own or prefabricated, keep scale in mind. A small yard that’s dwarfed by a shed can be an eyesore and cast more shade than you might want on your lawn and flowerbeds. Take some time to consider these things too:

Permits

Beyond scale, you should contact your zoning commission to learn about any restrictions on the height or overall size of a planned addition. You may need a permit to build, or a permit might be conditional based on size, in which case a small shed may be free of permit regulations that require the submission of a formal building plan. The more you know about how the laws in your area relate to your project, the better you’ll be able to decide how you want to proceed.

Location

As in all real estate, location matters. Most zoning laws have guidelines indicating that sheds be located a specific limited distance from property lines. The locations of any gas, phone, water, electric or cable lines will be important too. You won’t want to have to dismantle your shed to access underground lines if you can help it, so make sure that your proposed spot is clear. This will probably require a few calls to your city offices and local utilities for additional information.

You’ll also need a level spot, or will need to make it level, which will require additional work to create a stable foundation. If you want the shed wired for electricity, there may be ramifications for both the construction of the shed and the creation of a poured or gravel foundation. The more straightforward these elements are, the less work and expense will be involved in building your shed.

Wood and Other Materials

Choosing the right materials is another thing to keep in mind. If you’re using plans and embarking on a do-it-yourself project, you’re probably planning on using wood. The better quality wood you choose, the less maintenance will be necessary after the deck is built. Typically, lower graded wood and plywood have imperfections and knots that can make them difficult to work with and may create weak spots. You can choose a pine product that’s been pressure treated for outdoor use. These woods often have a green cast and have been impregnated with copper and other compounds to make them resistant to rot and termites. Pressure treated pine is a good alternative to high priced woods, like redwood or teak, but are more expensive than plywood or untreated wood.

Hardware is a consideration too. Whenever possible, use galvanized nails and screws to control rust.

The following sites have storage shed plans available free or for a small charge:

• Build your Own Garden or Storage Shed
• Gable Storage Shed
• Gambrel Storage Shed
• Backyard Utility Shed
• Narrow Shed
• Solar Storage Shed
• Potting Garden Shed
• Just Sheds – Assorted plans for a fee.
• Double Door Shed
• Double Shed
• Colonial Style Shed
• Barn Style Shed

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