Tuesday, June 30, 2009

How To Build A Pole Shed - Economical And Quick!


Learning how to build a pole shed is really smart since they are the most cheap to build and also the fastest.

A pole shed is a really simple structure. Basically you put poles in the ground, cover them with walls and the put a roof on top.. that's it. Doesn't sound to complicated now does it?

But where to begin...
First of all you need to know how big it will be, a pole shed or more like a pole barn? The size makes a lot of diference as it will change weather you will have it free floating or if you will be putting the poles deep in the ground. It's clever to put the poles in the ground as it will make your shed sturdier and stronger.

Now, find a good place for your pole shed. Somewhere where the ground drains well and does not retain water. Sketch out your pole shed or simply buy a good plan (not expensive). I would recommend that you get a good plan as that will ensure that your shed will look good, stray strong and if you plans come with materials list then you will also just buy what you need saving you money. I would recommend MyShedPlans.

Before you start building make sure that you have a building permit, even if it's just a small shed. Better be on the safe side here, you don't want to have to tear it down if anybody complains.

Now, go to the hardware store and lumber yard for material. Make sure you get something heavy for the poles. then you need 2x4 inch lumber for the frame, 2x6 inch boards for room stringers, plywood for the walls and for the room I would recommend corrugated tin. You should also be able to get pre-built roof trusses from your lumber yard.

Now it's time to start. Begin with diggin holes for the poles. Make sure they are deep enough to go below frost level. Pour some concrete into the bottom. When it has ardened then put some gravel to drain moisture. Then raise the poles of your pole barn. Make sure that when you are digging the holes that the corners of our layout are exactly 90 degrees. Use your eyes and perhaps string to sight down the wall to make sure the poles are installed evenly.

Secure the stringers on to the tops of the poles. This part you have to do really well and make sure the stringers are very secure as they will be supporting the weight of the roof.

Install the roof trusses and then nail in the purlins (to secure the outer edge of the stringers to help supporting the trusses).

Now put the roof on. Make sure you overlap short sections for weather tightness and also for ease of installasion.

Now put the walls on the outside of your shed (if you want walls that is). Use 2x4 inch lumber as bracing and then plywood for the walls.

If you want blueprints and very easy to follow step-by-step instructions along with materials list you can do so at www.BuildAShed.info

How To Build A Storage Shed - The Basics


In this post I will go through the basic steps on how to build a storage shed.

Don't worry if you find the thought of building your own shed overwhelming. It's normal and there is nothing you need to worry as you will see when you read on. I've been in your steps and I know what this feels like. But I promise you that this task is not that difficult at all or complex.

Let me start by saying that good planing is the key to success here. If you don't then you might end up with spending too much money, too much time and maybe not even a shed that you really like.

So let's begin.

First you need to decide on a budget. Not just money but also time. There are some options here.
Option one: If you have a big budget and limited time then you might want someone to build the shed for you or simply be a pre-built shed. It can be a good option but it will cost you a lot of money and you will miss out on the satisfaction on haven a shed you built.

Option two: Buy a shed kit. Again this will save you a lot of time as all the components will come ready and you will get the satisfaction of putting it together your self. The downside is that this will cost you twice as much as building it yourself from scratch and it will not look unique as many other will have bought the same kit.

Option three: Build a shed from scratch using plans. This is a very exciting way to do thins as you are in total control of every aspect of the building process and you will save loads of money. The only downside is that this will take more time than the other options. If you are a skilled carpenter then you can simply buy whatever plans you find a like as you know what materials to buy and how much. But if you are not so experienced then I suggest that you get MyShedPlans. It's a great package with more than 12.000 shed plans and other woodworking projects for even the most inexperienced. Very detailed, step-by-step instructions also come with each blueprint and there is a materials list. The material list alone will save you tons of money since you will buy just the right materials and you will not buy too much.

Regarding option one and two, you will find shed kits and pre built sheds in various places online, just use google and make sure you compare prices and quality. Also, don't forget shipping costs. You should also visit your local harware store and lumber yard as they might be selling kits and sheds.

If you make the smart choise and go for option three and you use MyShedPlans you really don't need any more help since all the help you need is in that kit. :) Good luck!

To save money you get FREE Storage Shed Plans here!