As you read every word in this article, keep in mind that when you build your own shed, you are first and foremost responsible and accountable for everything that happens to it on all phases (planning, construction, aftermath).
Let's get straight to the meat of the matter, as I don't want to waste your time.
Get the Best Set of Plans.
- That's it.
You don't have to read everything else if you want to stop now.
I know that sounds strange at first, and if it does, then keep reading.
Never think, unless you're a veteran or expert with woodworking experience for at least a decade (but even then, I'd still give this point a go), that you can build your own shed without any professional help, let alone from something as a set of tried and proven plans.
All the other things that are based on this concept.
If you want a fast track in finishing your project (and impressing a great deal your family and folks), there's nothing wrong with purchasing shed plans, whether it be offline or online.
I prefer the latter though as it saves a lot of expenses on your part, and even when you have printed out the plans, you still get to keep a digital copy in case you lose them.
Most of these "build your own shed" plans from the internet are often included in a huge set of other woodworking projects, which you can use to prepare for other special events and activities.
Having a tested plan also gives you enough leverage to quickly build your own shed from scratch.
You obviously don't want to end up like I did on my first project (a saltbox shed) which was close to being torn down simply because I failed to get a building permit and forgot to get permission from the home owner's association.
Imagine all the wasted weekends if they tore that structure apart! And to think that guidelines like those are emphasized in most plans.
I guess designing on the fly has its consequences.
Another thing with having a professional set of blueprints to guide you is they often come with a complete material list as well as a cut chart showing you what size to cut your wood.
Pretty neat for folks like you and me, as you just buy the needed material, visit your local lumber shop and have it all cut to size so when you start your project, it'll be more like a jigsaw puzzle that you'll just have to put together with nails! Finally, the location of the shed is something that most people only remember midway in the project.
When the groundwork has been completed, and only then do they scratch their heads or slap themselves with a shovel (if they can take it) because of poor planning.
Ask yourself questions such as the purpose of the shed, if it's going to need electricity, if it will be placed right up to the property line and have one door...
or if it can be turned sideways and can accommodate two doors, each on both ends.
Don't worry, the best shed plans have all that too, and much more.