Posted on February 25, 2009 - by DIY Dave

Shed Construction

Are you thinking of doing your own construction work but you are having reservations because you lack the experience in such things? Shed construction is an example, and it is more doable than the perceptions of many. If one is contructing a fireplace, he/she has to add on to the existing structures, but usually, not in the case of a shed construction. In case you fail in the first attempt, do not lose sleep over it. It would not permanently ruin the look of the backyard, and it is so easy to move the guests away from that part of the property.

Shed construction: Design

In perusing the many basic designs, you would find that they are actually simple. Before the construction per se, there is a question that has to be answered. Why exactly are you building a shed, besides the fact that you are bored? Is it for storage, to be used as an extra room, is it for the dog, or what? Decide on where you would put it, and if it’s a tool shed, think of how you would store the many tools concerned. Whatever the reason may be, do not lose sight of the fact that one principal reason for shed construction is the thrill of the act of building, even before the actual use of the structure.

Shed construction: Tips

Now, here are some strong tips and hints on shed construction. A wood-floor kind must be made with lumber (treated), this would prevent wood rotting and any attack from pests. In framing the walls, you could use ordinary lumber, but have a treated lumber bottom plate- if ever waters enters the shed, this would also help in preventing wood rotting.

One could purchase pre-fabricated trusses for the roof, but indeed, cutting ordinary rafters is doable. When money is a serious issue, then roof-framing without the trusses could be a better course of action.

Cover the outside walls and the roof with asphalt felt papers prior to the application of shingles or sidings. This paper would (again) bar wood rotting in case leaks crop up in the future.

In thinking of the door, consider the smaller garage door (overhead type). A 6-foot wide overhead garage door always impresses guests and acquaintances.

The fact is, many tasks in shed construction could be done by your lonesome. Of course, unless you are a superhero hiding your powers, then you need company in lifting the walls set on the floor- and that applies to roof sheathing as well.