Using Shed Kits Instead Of Building a Shed From Scratch

If you are planning on building a storage shed, make sure you do some homework first. If you are a carpenter or experienced handyman you have the advantage over the novice, in a few ways. You will be able to determine what would be best for you, either using a shed kit or building from scratch. With your experience your have more options based on your knowledge. 

You novice builders have the same options, but it’s a matter of what would be the best for you. It really would be worth your while to check out the wide range of selections that are available.  I know, you really wanted to build this from scratch, and maybe feel like you’re cheating if you use a kit. On the contrary, you are making a wise decision, and besides someone has to still put it together, plus you can customize it. It’s that overall finished look that a person takes pride in, not in how many pieces of wood they had to cut. 

These prefab storage units give you many options and have lots of advantages. First of all, you can have a choice of materials such as wood, vinyl or metal. If you were to build the shed from scratch, you probably would only be able to use wood, if you didn’t have any knowledge or tools to work with vinyl or metal. With some shed kits because of the way they are constructed you don’t need to worry to much about insulating, because of the way they are constructed. So that eliminates your problem of having to work with insulations. 

If you purchase one of the self locking units, then you don’t have to be concerned about installing rafters, which is great, because it also gives you more usable space on the inside. You never have to worry about warping provided you have put it together properly. 

Remember I said that you could accessorize it? In other words add your own creativity to it. For example, you can plan where you want the windows to be. You could even choose to put in skylights which not only is practical ,it modernizes the décor as well. What you want to do, and with what accessories are available to you, depends on the style of shed you are choosing, plus the material. If you are accessorizing, it is usually an added expense.

You will be pleased with how simple it is to erect one of these sheds when you buy the package. There are so many advantages to it. For example.

-All the material comes with it, There’s no running around trying to find everything you need

-You are not restricted to style because of your limited building knowledge

-Your choice of material allows you to choose something that will blend in and enhance your home and property

-They are sturdy, durable and a real bonus is they are maintenance free

-If your needs grow, and you need more storage space then you can either add an addition to the existing one, or purchase another one the same.

-There are no hidden costs. Everything you need is in the package and paid for at the time of purchase., so you know what its going to cost you. 

Although remember if you don’t buy one that comes with a base, you will incur extra costs with that, plus don’t forget about the accessories.

10 Steps To Build An Outdoor Storage Shed

How To Build A Shed In 10 Steps - Outdoor Storage Shed


So you need a storage shed to keep your outdoor items properly protected. You have shopped around to see what’s available, but you just can’t find one that suits your needs. Well, that’s no problem. You can build one yourself ,even if you’re not a carpenter. All that is required is ,for you to follow some quick and easy step by step plans, and you will have it built in no time.


Step One


 Is to determine where you want to build it. You need to have a designated area planned out before you begin. What space you have available will determine the maximum size you can build it.


Step two


 Once you know your exact size it’s a good idea to rough sketch what you want. There are many home improvement stores that you can take your sketch to. They will draft up your storage shed  plans for you, according to the specs you provide them with. They will also supply you with a list of materials that you will require. So now you have your plans. In addition they will provide you with a guide on how to perform each step.


Step Three


Purchase the materials you will need as outlined in your plan. it’s a good idea to have everything at hand so you don’t have to keep running out for supplies once you start construction.


Step Four 


 Now you are ready to start. Level your ground and prepare to lay the foundation. You would have already decided whether you are going to have a wood plank floor or concrete slab type.


Step Five


 Next comes the side walls. Put your materials aside that you are going to use for this. It is better to construct the walls on the ground then lift them into position once they are together. Just follow your guide for the how to instructions.


Step Six


Now its time to start the roof. You will need to build your trusses. So construct one and then use it as a template for the rest. Once again  follow your guide on how to build the trusses.


Step Seven


Your storage shed should now be taking on some shape. Its time to build the end walls. How you do this will depend on what you have chosen in your plans. Be sure to stay with your original plans.


Step Eight 


Now you are getting down to the final steps. The trim is just as important as the rest of your structure. Its what gives it that finished look so don’t scrimp here.


Step Nine 


Your last two steps are applying the shingles for the roof then treating the wood. The wood must have some type of protective coating on it to protect it from the elements and rotting. This can be varnish, stains or paints whatever is your preference.


Step Ten 


You’re done! All that’s left is to sit back and admire your completed storage shed. If you hadn’t built it yourself you would think it was a professional store bought model.