5 Beginning Steps For Building Your DIY Storage Shed
If you have decided to build your own storage unit there are some important steps you need to consider before beginning your construction. Taking some time to consider your needs, location and design will save you a lot of headaches, time and money.
1. Deciding your storage shed location and use.
The location of your new shed will depend on what you are going to be using it for - if storing tools it can be much simpler than if you were going to use it as a shop. If you are housing wheeled equipment it may need a ramp leading up to a double doors or an overhead garage door and may require a concrete floor.
2. Are building codes and permits needed in your area?
The building code requirements will depend on whether it will be for storage or will feature plumbing, heating, wiring, and interior walls. Contact your local building department before you start your construction. In some areas, you may not require a building permit if the shed is under a certain size and is not built on a permanent foundation.
3. Getting the right tools together.
Circular saw or table saw depending on the scope of your project, safety goggles, some type of hearing protection, dust mask, work gloves, cordless drill, hammer, measuring tape, framing squares, 4-ft. level, carpenter pencil and saw horses. These are the basic needs - there are lots of tools that will make your project easier to complete the most important being a detailed set of shed plans.
4. Decide on plans, kits, and or prefab buildings.
A shed from a plan with a materials list is well within the range of most do-it-yourselves. A good set of plans will feature a detailed materials and cutting list, clear diagrams, and step-by-step instructions allowing most with basic carpentry skills the ability to complete the construction.
If you are a first time builder with limited skills and tools at your disposal it may be wise to consider a kit where all the pieces are pre cut and all that is required on your part is doing the assembly.
5. Allow the right amount of time for the project.
If you are a weekend warrior and can't allow several consecutive days to design, build or assemble your shed you may want to complete your building in calculated steps or phrases. Regardless of how many or little tools you have or your skill level if you desire a huge advantage that will save you time and money the most important consideration is to have a good blueprint it will save you many headaches and money.
1. Deciding your storage shed location and use.
The location of your new shed will depend on what you are going to be using it for - if storing tools it can be much simpler than if you were going to use it as a shop. If you are housing wheeled equipment it may need a ramp leading up to a double doors or an overhead garage door and may require a concrete floor.
2. Are building codes and permits needed in your area?
The building code requirements will depend on whether it will be for storage or will feature plumbing, heating, wiring, and interior walls. Contact your local building department before you start your construction. In some areas, you may not require a building permit if the shed is under a certain size and is not built on a permanent foundation.
3. Getting the right tools together.
Circular saw or table saw depending on the scope of your project, safety goggles, some type of hearing protection, dust mask, work gloves, cordless drill, hammer, measuring tape, framing squares, 4-ft. level, carpenter pencil and saw horses. These are the basic needs - there are lots of tools that will make your project easier to complete the most important being a detailed set of shed plans.
4. Decide on plans, kits, and or prefab buildings.
A shed from a plan with a materials list is well within the range of most do-it-yourselves. A good set of plans will feature a detailed materials and cutting list, clear diagrams, and step-by-step instructions allowing most with basic carpentry skills the ability to complete the construction.
If you are a first time builder with limited skills and tools at your disposal it may be wise to consider a kit where all the pieces are pre cut and all that is required on your part is doing the assembly.
5. Allow the right amount of time for the project.
If you are a weekend warrior and can't allow several consecutive days to design, build or assemble your shed you may want to complete your building in calculated steps or phrases. Regardless of how many or little tools you have or your skill level if you desire a huge advantage that will save you time and money the most important consideration is to have a good blueprint it will save you many headaches and money.
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