Shed, Garage, and Outbuilding Plans

Add value and functionality to your home with a detached garage/storage shed. Pre-built sheds are available at many box stores and independent retailers. The problem with these is that they are not built to match or complement your home. When you construct your own shed you determine what facade and design is used. This can help the look complement your house and increase your property value instead of looking like an afterthought.

These packages offer a wide range of shed and garage plans as well as complete construction directions. There are several places online to go for plans and designs but from my research I have determined these to be the best for your money. All are under fifty dollars and provide a wide selection of plans to choose from. Dont spend hundreds on one set of blueprints when you can get all you need for your project in one of these packages. Use your set of plans to get materials pricing and to figure the cost of your project before you begin. Get estimates from contractors and compare. You will find these products to be very helpful every step of the way.

Product Reviews

My Shed Plans	61 Small Barn Plans	DIY Garage Plans
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How to Build a Shed

There are many reasons to build a shed. They are an inexpensive way to create a very versatile space. A shed can be used for general storage, a small workshop, garden shed, woodshed, or even a detached office. So the first thing to think about is what uses you want to get out of your shed. This will affect its placement on your property, the size, design, and whether or not you need to run electricity or even water to it. I once had a client who used their shed as a large food storage/pantry area. They even wired and heated the shed. While most people will not go to this length with their shed, the uses need to be considered.

Once you have determined the functionality that you would like to get out of your shed, you can begin to plan what to include in it. For most of us a shed is an extension of our storage ability for things like Christmas decorations. Others will use a shed to store outdoor equipment from garden tools to mowers and line trimmers. All of these functions only require a dry place that keeps out any curious animals. A shed such as this can be built in a weekend as long as you plan well and have a set of shed plans to follow.

Most people don't consider building a small shed as a detached office. It is very inexpensive compared to building an addition an entire detached suite. Since a shed doesn't need to have a concrete foundation poured in place, it can be constructed in such a way that would allow it to be moved at any point. The building can then be set on blocks or short posts. The lack of foundation is a huge cost saver, since no excavation or concrete is needed. With the addition of a few windows into the design and a simple interior finish, a shed can be come a small home away from home in your backyard.

The simplest form of shed is a woodshed. Usually only three-sided, these sheds keep rain off of wood so that it can cure and stay dry. You don't even have to add a floor, though I do recommend gravel or some form of flooring since this will discourage pests. Place your woodshed where it can be accessed from the house with ease, even on a snowy night.

Having chosen the shed plan and location, take your materials list (many "how-to" guides for sale online come with a materials list) to the various box stores and supply yards. Have them bid the materials for you and see if anyone is willing to beat their competitor's lowest price. Build a relationship with your sales rep, as they will likely be willing to answer questions that arise during your project. Choose your supplier based on material quality, service, and price, then order your materials. Many lumber yards will deliver free of charge if your order is big enough.

At this point, the only thing that remains is to follow the plans and put your shed together. If you hit a snag, check out forum and building sites. They are often very helpful. This can be a fun project to get a few friends together on. Most people are willing to help, especially when food and drinks are provided. Have a blast building your shed!