Garden Buildings

Alright, you've finally decided to tackle that storage shed project you've been putting off. Good for you! A 12x20 shed is a great size for a lot of things: lawn equipment, bikes, gardening tools, extra furniture... you name it! And building it yourself can be incredibly rewarding. It's a project that'll give you a sense of accomplishment, and you'll know exactly how it was built. So, grab a cup of coffee (or a beer!), put on some tunes, and let's get started.

Step 1: The Planning Stage - Don't Skip It!

Before you rush out and buy lumber, take some time to plan. Think about the following:

Location, location, location! Where's the best spot for your shed? Consider access for your lawnmower, the slope of your yard, sunlight, and proximity to your house.
Foundation: Concrete slab, piers, or a wood frame? Each has pros and cons, so weigh them carefully. Concrete is the most permanent, piers are cheaper, and a wood frame is the simplest.
Building Codes: Check your local building codes. There might be regulations on size, height, and even the distance from your property line.
Budget: Set a budget and stick to it! Don't forget to factor in things like permits, concrete, tools, and even some "oops" money for unexpected expenses.
Design: Do you want a traditional shed with a gable roof or something more modern? Consider adding windows or a door on the side for extra light and ventilation.

Step 2: Gather Your Materials

Here's a list of basic materials you'll need for a 12x20 shed. This list can be adjusted depending on your design.

Lumber: You'll need pressure-treated lumber for the foundation and bottom plates. Use dimensional lumber (2x4s, 2x6s, and 2x8s) for the walls, roof, and framing.
Sheathing: OSB (oriented strand board) is a cost-effective and strong option for sheathing the walls and roof.
Roofing: Choose your roofing material based on your budget and preference. Asphalt shingles are a common and affordable option.
Siding: Vinyl siding, wood siding, or even metal siding are all great options. Choose what suits your style and budget.
Windows and Doors: Select windows and doors that meet your needs. Consider the size and style.
Fasteners: You'll need lots of nails, screws, and even some galvanized steel strapping for added strength.
Paint or Stain: Protect your shed from the elements with a good coat of paint or stain.
Other Materials: Don't forget things like flashing, caulk, insulation, and house wrap.

Step 3: Laying the Foundation

This is where things get serious. The foundation is the most important part of your shed.

Concrete Slab: This is the most durable option but can be expensive. You'll need to pour a concrete slab that's at least 4 inches thick.
Concrete Piers: These are a good alternative if you don't want to pour a large concrete slab. You can use pre-made concrete blocks or have piers poured on site.
Wood Frame: The simplest option, but less durable than concrete. Build a frame using pressure-treated lumber and place it on concrete blocks for support.

Step 4: Framing the Walls

Now it's time to get those walls up!

Cutting the Walls: Cut the lumber to size for the walls. Use a circular saw and make sure your cuts are accurate.
Assembling the Walls: Connect the wall studs with the bottom and top plates. Use a level to ensure your walls are plumb (perfectly vertical).
Adding Bracing: Bracing is crucial for strength and stability. Add diagonal bracing in the walls to prevent them from bowing.

Step 5: Building the Roof

Time to give your shed a roof over its head!

Rafters: Cut and install the rafters that will support the roof sheathing. Make sure they are properly spaced and anchored to the wall plates.
Roof Sheathing: Install the OSB sheathing to create a solid base for the roofing material.
Roofing: Install the roofing material according to the manufacturer's instructions. Don't forget the flashing around the edges of the roof.

Step 6: Finishing Touches

You're almost there! Now for the details.

Siding: Install the siding of your choice. Follow the manufacturer's instructions.
Windows and Doors: Install the windows and doors. Make sure they are properly sealed and weatherproofed.
Paint or Stain: Paint or stain the exterior of your shed. This will protect it from the elements and give it a nice look.

Step 7: Interior Work (Optional)

If you plan on using your shed for more than storage, you can add some interior features:

Flooring: You can install wood flooring, concrete flooring, or even epoxy flooring.
Shelves: Build shelves or install pre-made shelving units for extra storage.
Electricity: Running electricity to your shed can be useful for lighting and maybe even a small appliance.

Congratulations! You've Done It!

You've just built your very own 12x20 storage shed! Sit back, admire your work, and enjoy the satisfaction of a DIY project well done.

Some Final Tips:

Safety First: Always wear safety goggles and gloves when working with power tools and sharp objects.
Take Your Time: Building a shed is a project that requires patience. Don't rush through it.
Don't Be Afraid to Ask for Help: If you're not comfortable with any part of the project, ask a friend or a family member for help.
Have Fun: This is a project that should be enjoyable. Don't let it become a source of stress.

Now, go out there and build a shed that you'll be proud of! And remember, it's not just a shed, it's a space for your dreams, your hobbies, your projects, and your stuff! So get out there and get building!