Garden Buildings

Alright, so you're thinking about building a shed, huh? That's awesome! It's a great way to add some extra storage space to your property, and you can do it for a pretty decent price, too. Let's talk about building a cheap 8x10 shed using basic tools. Don't worry, we're not talking about getting fancy here - we're going for simple and affordable.

Step 1: Gather your materials

First things first, you need to gather your materials. Here's a basic list of what you'll need:

Lumber: You'll need pressure-treated lumber for the foundation and floor joists, and regular framing lumber for the walls and roof. You'll also need plywood for the floor, walls, and roof.
Fasteners: You'll need nails, screws, and possibly some construction adhesive.
Roofing: You'll need shingles, felt paper, and some flashing to cover the roof.
Doors and windows: You can get these pre-made or build them yourself.
Paint or stain: This is optional, but it can help protect your shed and make it look better.

Step 2: Decide on the foundation - concrete or wood?

Now, before you get carried away with the wood, let's talk about the foundation. You have two main options: concrete or wood.

Concrete is definitely more durable and will last longer, but it can be a bit more expensive and time-consuming to pour.
Wood is a much cheaper and easier option, but it may not be as durable, especially if you live in a climate with lots of moisture.

Since we're going for "cheap," let's go with the wood foundation.

Step 3: Build the foundation

Lay down pressure-treated 4x4s: These will form the base of your shed. Make sure they're level and spaced out evenly.
Add some 2x6s for support: Place 2x6s on top of the 4x4s to create a solid base for the floor joists.
Anchor it securely: You'll want to make sure your foundation is anchored to the ground. This is important to prevent it from shifting or moving.

Step 4: The floor joists

Lay down 2x6s: Start laying down your 2x6 floor joists onto your foundation. These should be spaced 16 inches apart. Make sure the joists are level and flush with the edge of the foundation.
Support those joists: You'll need to add some extra support under the middle of the joists to prevent sagging over time.
Secure with nails or screws: Make sure your floor joists are securely fastened to the foundation and any additional support you might need.

Step 5: Time for the plywood

Lay down your plywood: Now it's time to start laying down your plywood floor. Make sure it's flush with the edges and use construction adhesive to make sure it's well-secured.
Secure with screws: Use screws to secure the plywood to the joists.

Step 6: Building the walls

Build your wall frames: Cut the 2x4s to the appropriate length for your wall. You'll need to build two sets of walls, one for each side of your shed. Make sure you add bracing for extra strength.
Attach the plywood: Attach the plywood sheathing to your wall frames using screws. Again, you can use construction adhesive for extra security.
Stand those walls up: Now, carefully lift your wall frames and put them in place. Once they're standing, you can attach them to the floor using screws.
Build the roof: Construct the roof frames and attach them to the walls. Then, secure the roof sheathing using plywood.

Step 7: Time for the roof

Lay down roofing felt: Before you start installing your shingles, you'll need to lay down some roofing felt paper. This will help protect your roof from leaks.
Install your shingles: Now, it's time to install your shingles. Follow the manufacturer's instructions to get a professional-looking result.

Step 8: The finishing touches

Add doors and windows: Install your doors and windows to your shed. If you're building them yourself, make sure to frame them properly.
Add a roof overhang: This will help protect your walls from the elements.
Paint or stain: Now, this part is up to you. Painting or staining your shed will help protect it from the elements and add some personality.

Tips for building a cheap shed

Check local building codes: Some communities have specific codes that need to be followed, so make sure you check them out before you start building.
Look for clearance or discounted lumber: You can often find great deals on lumber at home improvement stores or lumberyards.
Shop around for materials: Compare prices from different vendors before you buy anything.
Don't be afraid to ask for help: If you're not sure about something, don't be afraid to ask a more experienced person for help.

Safety first!

Wear safety glasses and gloves: It's important to protect your eyes and hands when working with wood.
Use a sturdy ladder: Make sure your ladder is stable and in good condition before using it.
Be aware of your surroundings: Make sure there are no obstacles in your way that you could trip over or run into.

Building a shed can be a rewarding experience, and it's an excellent way to save money and add storage space to your property. By following these steps and keeping safety in mind, you can build a cheap 8x10 shed using simple tools.

Remember, take your time and enjoy the process! It's a great way to learn new skills and create something you can be proud of.