Choosing Location and Lumber for DIY Storage Sheds

By:Warren Wong

Most homeowners realize they need a storage shed after they have the house completed. There are some things, such as garden tools, a lawn mower and bicycles, that are best stored outside the home. Most of them also want to tackle the building of the shed on their own as a do-it-yourself project. Storage sheds come in all shapes and sizes, which is why there are many different kinds of plans available for DIY storage sheds. You should look through all the plans available to find one that will compliment the exterior of your home. You don't want one that looks too small next to the house, not do you want one that is so large that it overpowers the house.

First you have to choose the right location for the shed. If you live in a city or town where there are building codes in place, then you should check with the proper department to find out of there are any regulations and how to go about obtaining a permit. The regulations cover the size and height of the shed, so these are things you have to keep in mind when searching for the plans. Once you have all this in place, then you need to carefully choose the location and measure the area. Some of the factors you need to keep in mind when choosing the location include the amount of sunlight that this area receives so that you will know where the best places for windows will be. You also need to consider the access to the shed from the house and whether or not you want to see the shed from the house or the street.

When you choose the size and type of storage shed, you have a choice in buying a shed kit that comes with all the lumber and materials you need. This would be a good route to take if you are not sure how to read plans and determine how much lumber you need. You can also take the plans to a lumberyard and have the staff there help you determine what and how much you need to buy. Buying unseasoned wood could mean costly repairs down the road because this tends to shrink as it dries. Therefore, it is best to purchase kiln-dried wood for your storage shed.

Check out all the lumber by laying it on its edge and eyeing it down the edge to see if any of the pieces are cupped. Look for gaps or crooked areas because this will have an effect on this finished product and perhaps make it difficult to have straight walls. Check the grade of the lumber as well. Lumber comes in four grades with number 1 being the best quality and most expensive and number 4 being the poorest quality and the cheapest. Number 2 lumber is the kind most often used. For areas close to the ground, always use pressure treated lumber.

To get the best prices, you should get quotes from several dealers and then choose the one that best meets your budget. You also have to factor in delivery charges, but if you have a truck, you can save on this by picking up the lumber yourself.

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Article keywords: DIY, storage, make, shed, ramp, plans

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For more information on DIY storage sheds,DIY shed plans, how to make a shed ramp and other DIY related information visit http://www.DIYHomeAdvice.com

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