If you are a Handyman and plan to construct your own garden shed or tool shed there a few things you must consider before purchasing your shed plans.
Determine the Primary Purpose of Your Shed:
Before you can determine which shed plans are best suited for your project you must first evaluate the purpose of your shed. Is it primarily used as storage for tools? Will you require access for large equipment such as a lawnmower or a golf cart? Will the shed be used as a workshop, garden-shed, or pool-house? Once you determine the primary use of your shed you can move on to the shed plan selection process.
Selecting a Shed Style:
There are many shed styles to choose from. For the most part, it is just a matter of personal taste and preference. However certain styles of sheds may be more difficult to build. For instance a shed with a Gambrel Roof may be too complicated for a beginner handyman to construct. If you are a novice handyman stick to a simple plan with easy to follow instructions.
Choose an architectural design that compliments your existing home or other nearby structures. You should consider matching materials and a complimentary color as well.
Door Style and Size:
If you plan to store a garden tractor or golf cart in your shed you will need a large, 60 inch wide or greater, double door for easy access. If the purpose of the shed is for small storage only; then consider a single door for simplicity and cost. As a minimum width, purchase and install a 36 inch wide door.
Overall Size:
Bigger is better. If you are like the majority of Handyman, you can never have enough space for your tools and equipment. Calculate the space you think you will need and add 30 percent for growth and surprises. If you plan to store a riding lawnmower or golf cart in your garden shed, be sure to select a shed plan with adequate space to walk around the equipment. Common shed sizes are 8x10, 10x10, 10x12, and 12x16.
Choosing Windows:
In general, smaller windows are recommended for your shed. A smaller window provides more security and also allows for more storage space and wall space inside your shed. If you plan to use the shed as a workspace be sure to select a window that can be opened to allow for ventilation.
Selecting Materials:
For the do-it-yourself handyman the material of choice is wood. Select a shed plan with standard 2 x 4 construction. This will allow for insulation in colder climates, if required based on the use of your shed. You can purchase metal sheds and plastic sheds but they are very limited when the time comes for a modification or repair.
Wood is a very easy and forgiving material to work with for the novice handyman. Top it off with a fresh coat of paint for a professional appearance.
Standard roofing shingles are the best choice for the roof of your shed. Shingles are easy to install, provide excellent weather protection, and are durable with up to a 20 year or more lifespan. Choose a shingle color and style that matches your home.
Accessories and Finishing Touches:
In your budget be sure to include a few accessories such as specialty wall hooks for hanging your garden tools. You should also consider a shed plan that includes shelving, or you can purchase readymade shelving from your local hardware store.
Handyman Shed Plan Tips:
o Choose a shed plan with easy to follow instructions, illustrations, and a complete bill of materials list.
o Prepare a cost estimate using your bill of materials prior to starting on your shed project.
o Clean and prime the wood prior to applying the finish coat of paint.
o Build it with a friend; the project will go much smoother with an extra set of hands.
Determine the Primary Purpose of Your Shed:
Before you can determine which shed plans are best suited for your project you must first evaluate the purpose of your shed. Is it primarily used as storage for tools? Will you require access for large equipment such as a lawnmower or a golf cart? Will the shed be used as a workshop, garden-shed, or pool-house? Once you determine the primary use of your shed you can move on to the shed plan selection process.
Selecting a Shed Style:
There are many shed styles to choose from. For the most part, it is just a matter of personal taste and preference. However certain styles of sheds may be more difficult to build. For instance a shed with a Gambrel Roof may be too complicated for a beginner handyman to construct. If you are a novice handyman stick to a simple plan with easy to follow instructions.
Choose an architectural design that compliments your existing home or other nearby structures. You should consider matching materials and a complimentary color as well.
Door Style and Size:
If you plan to store a garden tractor or golf cart in your shed you will need a large, 60 inch wide or greater, double door for easy access. If the purpose of the shed is for small storage only; then consider a single door for simplicity and cost. As a minimum width, purchase and install a 36 inch wide door.
Overall Size:
Bigger is better. If you are like the majority of Handyman, you can never have enough space for your tools and equipment. Calculate the space you think you will need and add 30 percent for growth and surprises. If you plan to store a riding lawnmower or golf cart in your garden shed, be sure to select a shed plan with adequate space to walk around the equipment. Common shed sizes are 8x10, 10x10, 10x12, and 12x16.
Choosing Windows:
In general, smaller windows are recommended for your shed. A smaller window provides more security and also allows for more storage space and wall space inside your shed. If you plan to use the shed as a workspace be sure to select a window that can be opened to allow for ventilation.
Selecting Materials:
For the do-it-yourself handyman the material of choice is wood. Select a shed plan with standard 2 x 4 construction. This will allow for insulation in colder climates, if required based on the use of your shed. You can purchase metal sheds and plastic sheds but they are very limited when the time comes for a modification or repair.
Wood is a very easy and forgiving material to work with for the novice handyman. Top it off with a fresh coat of paint for a professional appearance.
Standard roofing shingles are the best choice for the roof of your shed. Shingles are easy to install, provide excellent weather protection, and are durable with up to a 20 year or more lifespan. Choose a shingle color and style that matches your home.
Accessories and Finishing Touches:
In your budget be sure to include a few accessories such as specialty wall hooks for hanging your garden tools. You should also consider a shed plan that includes shelving, or you can purchase readymade shelving from your local hardware store.
Handyman Shed Plan Tips:
o Choose a shed plan with easy to follow instructions, illustrations, and a complete bill of materials list.
o Prepare a cost estimate using your bill of materials prior to starting on your shed project.
o Clean and prime the wood prior to applying the finish coat of paint.
o Build it with a friend; the project will go much smoother with an extra set of hands.
Bob Hightower is an author for the Handyman Plan Store a resource for the DIY Handyman.
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