1. Decide what the shed needs to do
List what you plan to store and how you will move it through the door. Leave room for shelves, a workbench or future equipment if those are likely additions. Our shed size guide can help with this first decision.
2. Choose the site
Our shed placement guide covers drainage, access and boundaries. Check the permit guide before construction too.
Think about drainage, access, property boundaries, overhead obstacles and how the doors will open. Check local permit and setback requirements before construction.
3. Build a suitable foundation
The foundation needs to support the shed and suit the ground conditions. See our foundation guide before choosing an approach.
4. Frame the floor and walls
A square, level base makes the rest of the project easier. Follow your plan for joist spacing, wall framing, headers and openings. Measure carefully before fastening assemblies permanently.
5. Frame and weatherproof the roof
Roof geometry depends on the design. Follow the plan for rafters or trusses, sheathing, underlayment, flashing and roofing material.
6. Finish the exterior and openings
Install siding, trim, doors and windows according to the product instructions and the shed plan. Pay attention to water management around openings and roof edges.
7. Set up the interior
Once the shell is weather tight, add shelves, hooks and work surfaces based on how you actually plan to use the space.
Our shed plan guide explains what details are worth looking for.
Choose a shed planIf you would rather build from a prepared design, you can browse the current My Shed Plans collection.
Start with a complete shed plan