Utility sheds are popular, functional, and even fun. Far beyond mere storage cupboards, a shed can be configured to function as a workshop, a play house for the kids, or even a private office.
No matter how you plan to use your shed, you have many options. There are prefabricated sheds, kit sheds, or custom built options. Sheds can be made of plastic, metal, or wood. Wood sheds in particular are popular choices because they can be finished in ways that suit the yard, from basic paint to decorative siding. Sheds can be purchased online and shipped to you or purchased locally in home stores.
You may want to build your own custom shed to save costs or to add special features not available on a prefabricated model. Custom utility sheds can be made as plain or fancy as you like. Imagine a miniature garden cottage in the back yard, or a shed with a “green” roof made of grass.
DIY Custom Sheds
Building your own shed requires careful planning. Fortunately plans for utility sheds can be purchased on the internet for a reasonable price with complete shed instructions, including a materials list.
When deciding which shed design to work with, here are some things to think about:
Estimate how much space you’ll need to avoid over building or under building. If you’re building a shed for storage, what will you be storing? Exercise equipment, lawn tools, power tools, file boxes, pool supplies, or bicycles?
If you’ll be storing things you need to reach frequently, such as a lawnmower or bicycles, consider leaving some room around them so you can get them in and out easily. On the other hand, if you don’t need much room, there’s no sense in building a mini mansion that takes up excess yard space.
Think about how the shed will look in your yard. What kind of roof line would look attractive with your home style? Even though utility sheds are basically square, the shape and style of the roof can change its appearance. Consider gabled, flat, hipped, and mansard styles using wood or composite shingles. Follow shed instructions precisely to get the look you want.
What kind of doors will serve you best? Double doors provide access to the full interior and make getting things in and out easier. Consider the location of your shed to be sure you have enough room to swing the doors open on both sides. If not, a sliding door is another option. A single door works for smaller utility sheds and for those sheds being used for non-storage purposes.
Also think about how the windows look, where they’re located, and even if you want or need windows. Make sure you leave plenty of wall space for shelves, pegboards, or seating you may want.
Have fun choosing your shed design. Browse magazines and online examples to explore the possibilities. Then purchase the most detailed shed instructions for the design you want to be sure of ending up with your dream shed.
