How to build a wooden garden shed from scratch 

Gardening is a much-loved hobby and is enjoyed by people all around the world. A garden shed makes the activity even more enjoyable by providing a place to keep garden tools, improving garden aesthetics, freeing up space in the home and even increasing the property value.

While it’s possible to buy a complete garden shed, building one from scratch is also an option. The fun activity brings the family together and costs less than buying a pre-built shed. So, where do you begin?

The following steps lay the foundation for building a wooden garden shed.

Get a building permit

Research the local building codes in your area and find out if you need a permit before building your garden shed. Avoid a costly fine by following the necessary steps to build your garden shed according to building code requirements.

Level the ground

If necessary, make sure that you level the ground for a stable foundation. Install deck piers along a grid to support the shed. You can also lay a concrete slab, protecting the shed from water seeping up from the ground.

Lay the support beams

Support your floor joists by stringing support beams lengthwise across the deck piers. We recommend metal straps with built-in nail holes.

Install the flooring

Take the necessary steps to install the flooring. For example, attach joists to the support beams and separate them with blocking to keep the floor joists from moving. Then, nail plywood sheeting to the joints.

Build the wall framework

When building the framework for the walls, keep in mind that the front and back walls are different from one another. Begin by building the frameworks for the walls and then assemble the four wall structures.

Install the roofing rafters and plywood

Once the wall structure is established, it’s time to add the roof. First, build rafters across the roof, separating them with blocking. Next, nail plywood sheeting to the rafters to form the roof.

Cover the walls and seal the structure

Finally, you can cover the walls with siding, textured plywood or another material. Before dusting off your hands and admiring your handiwork, make sure that you seal the structure. For example, add tar paper to the roof.

Once your garden shed is complete, you’ll have a secure space to keep your gardening tools and the opportunity to open up space in the home and garage. In the meantime, you can store your gardening equipment in a safe and secure storage unit with Louth Self Storage.

At Louth Self Storage, we offer a range of storage unit sizes and outdoor containers to use as an extension of your home. Our clean and dry spaces are the ideal solution to free up space in the home — until your garden shed is ready!

Give us a call at 01507 327008 and enquire about our availability.