A garden shed is more than just extra storage—it’s a space to organize your tools, protect equipment from the weather, and even create a small workshop retreat. With careful planning and the right materials, you can build a shed that’s sturdy, functional, and attractive. This guide brings together practical steps and professional recommendations to help you how to build a garden shed.
Planning and Preparation
Pause before starting any construction. Careful planning will save time and prevent costly mistakes later.
- Check local regulations – Most councils require permits for sheds over a certain size (commonly 10–12 m²). Confirm height, size, and placement rules with your local authority.
- Site selection – Choose level, well-drained ground, away from tree roots and underground services like plumbing or stormwater.
- Budgeting – A small timber garden shed typically costs between $1,000–$2,000 depending on size, finishes, and whether you already own tools.
Tools and Materials
Tools
- Tape measure, spirit level, framing square
- Circular saw (tilting base preferred), hand saw
- Hammer, power drill/driver with bits
- Shovel or mattock, crowbar, string line
- Safety gear: gloves, goggles, ear protection
Materials
- Timber: Treated pine (F7 structural grade) for frames, bearers, and joists
- Sheeting: OSB or plywood panels for floor and walls
- Roofing: Shingles, Colorbond, or corrugated sheets with flashing
- Fasteners: Galvanised screws, nails, joist hangers, anchor bolts
- Finishes: Exterior paint or stain, caulk/sealant
Garden Shed Foundation
You have two main options:
- Concrete slab – The most durable base, ideal for heavier sheds. Walls are bolted directly into the slab.
- Raised timber floor – Quicker and cheaper. Bearers and joists form the base, supported by pier or concrete blocks. Ensure bearers and joists comply with span tables (e.g., 140×45 mm joists spanning up to 1.9 m at 450 mm spacing).
Building the Floor
- Mark and set out your foundation using stakes and string lines.
- Lay concrete blocks or pour a slab (depending on your choice).
- For timber floors, construct the bearer frame and fix joists at 450 mm centers using joist hangers.
- Check for square by measuring diagonals.
- Install floor sheeting (tongue-and-groove OSB or plywood), securing with screws every 200 mm.
Framing the Walls
- Build wall frames on the ground using 2×4 or 90×45 mm studs at 450–600 mm spacing.
- Frame openings for shed windows and a door.
- Lift walls into place and secure them to the floor with screws or anchors.
- Add temporary bracing to keep walls plumb while fixing.
Roof Construction
- Cut rafters or trusses. A 22.5° angle is common for simple gable roofs.
- Fix trusses at 600 mm spacing along the top plates.
- Add roof battens and secure OSB or roofing sheets.
- Install roofing material (shingles, metal, or corrugated sheets), ensuring overlaps face away from prevailing winds.
- Add flashing and drip edges to prevent leaks.
Cladding, Doors, and Windows
- Fix exterior wall panels (plywood, weatherboard, or fibre cement) to frames.
- Install garden shed windows and doors, ensuring weather sealing.
- Use galvanised hinges and locks for durability.
- Add trim boards for a finished look.
Finishing Touches
- Painting: Coat all exterior surfaces with two layers of high-quality paint or wood stain.
- Floor protection: Seal with deck paint or waterproof coating.
- Storage solutions: Install shelves, hooks, or PVC pipe holders for tools.
- Landscaping: Gravel or paving around the shed prevents mud splashes and improves drainage.
Safety and Durability Tips
- Always use treated timber rated for outdoor, above-ground structural use.
- Seal all cut ends of treated timber with an end-seal preservative.
- Wear PPE when cutting, drilling, or handling treated pine.
- Anchor the shed securely to resist wind uplift.
Final step and garden shed is ready
It is a rewarding project that can be completed over a few weekends. If you’re wondering how to build a garden shed, start by following best practices for foundations, framing, and weatherproofing to create a sturdy and long-lasting structure. Whether you choose a compact 8×8 ft design or something larger, the key is careful planning and using quality treated timber. With your new shed in place, you’ll have a reliable home for your garden tools—and maybe even a quiet space just for you.
