What Are the Benefits of Building Your Storage Shed?

Deciding to build your storage shed will save you money and give you a project to stay busy during the current lockdown for COVID-19. It is also an opportunity to create a unique, creative, and functional element to your lawn. The storage sheds commonly sold at Home Depot, Lowes, and other hardware stores are generally not the most aesthetically pleasing structures. Despite their functionality, most homeowners probably try to hide them in an obscure corner of their backyard. A functional structure, however, doesn't necessarily have to be unsightly. For a bit of inspiration, check out these beautiful, homemade storage shed ideas on Pinterest.

What Is the Easiest Type of Storage Shed to Build?

The most accessible type of storage shed to build will largely depend on your DIY skills and the kind of structure you want to develop. In general, stick frame sheds are perhaps the easiest to make. They only require a minimum amount of tools (hammer, nails, drill, and a saw). There are also detailed plans that can be purchased or found online to help novice builders throughout the construction process. Wattle and daub structures are a bit more labor-intensive. However, the process of building with earth is incredibly flexible and forgiving. It is often a useful technique for people new to natural building.

Where Can I Find Storage Shed DIY Designs?

There are dozens of websites offering different DIY storage shed designs. Two of the best sites, in our opinion, are: Ryan's Shed Plans : This website provides an enormous variety of shed building plans, and they claim to give you access to over 12,000 plans when you purchase their downloadable product. The plans come with step-by-step instructions, and 3-D and CAD drawings and diagrams to make it easier for novices to follow along. The download currently only costs $37 and will give you the resources you need to get started building your stick frame shed. Max's Wood Working : This website similarly offers a $37 download that will give you access to over 16,000 woodworking plans. While these plans aren't just for sheds, there is a large shed section. You can also use this resource for building your patio furniture, carport, and everything in between.

How Much Will It Cost to Build My Own Shed From Scratch?

The overall price for a self-built storage shed will depend on the size of your shed and the quality of materials you use. For example, cheap plywood sheets might save you a couple of bucks. However, there is a risk for formaldehyde VOC emissions , especially if the storage shed is not ventilated with a window. Opting for VOC-free bamboo plywood might cost a bit more, but will add a unique, sustainable, health-enhancing touch to your shed. In general, however, homeowners should expect to spend between $500 and $1,500 in materials for their shed.

How Much do Storage Shed Kits Cost?

If you feel like sourcing and purchasing all the necessary materials might be over your head, there are many storage shed kits that can be purchased. These kits come with complete building plans, and all of the pre-cut lumber and materials you will need for assembly. However, these kits are a bit more expensive, with the average price somewhere between $2,000 and $5,000.

What Are Some of the Most Durable Brands of Kits?

One of the most durable brands for storage shed kits is Best Barns Woodville. This company offers between a 15 and 50-year warranty on the different types of sheds they sell. They also use quality, pre-cut lumber and include trusses and hurricane hangers to help the shed resist winds of up to 140 mph. At Home Depot , these kits range in price from $3,000 to $5,000.

What Storage Shed Kits Are the Easiest to Assemble/Require the Least Tools?

Keter Fusion is another company offering easy-to-assemble storage shed kits that are made from a combination of wood and plastic. These sheds are extremely easy to assemble and a good option for homeowners wanting a durable shed that resists the elements. These kits range in price from $550 for a small 6 x 8 ft shed to around $1650 for 7.5 x 11 ft options.