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.
DIY Shed Building FAQs
Is it cheaper to make my own shed?
Yes, building your own shed is usually cheaper than buying one pre-made. If you already own tools, DIY construction can save 30–50% on costs. You’ll spend mainly on materials and hardware instead of labour. Just be mindful of mistakes and material waste, which can offset savings.
What is the best foundation for a shed?
The best shed foundation depends on the site and shed size:
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Concrete slab: strongest and most durable for heavy sheds.
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Timber posts or concrete piers: ideal for smaller, sloped, or damp areas — they allow airflow and easy levelling.
Always ensure proper drainage and use H4-treated timber for ground contact.
Is it better to build a shed or buy a kit?
A shed kit saves time, as parts come pre-cut and pre-drilled, ideal for beginners. Building from scratch costs less if you can handle tools and want custom dimensions.
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Buy a kit if you prefer simplicity and speed.
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Build your own if you want flexibility and creative control.
What are common mistakes in DIY shed building?
Common errors include:
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Uneven or poorly drained foundations
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Using untreated timber for posts
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Insufficient bracing or waterproofing
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Ignoring local council regulations
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Misjudging material needs
Avoid these to ensure your shed remains stable, safe, and weatherproof.
What’s the biggest size shed without a permit?
In most Victorian and NSW councils, you can build a shed up to 10 m² and 3 m high without a permit — as long as it’s detached, behind your house, and not plumbed. Always confirm requirements with your local council before starting.
How much does it cost to build a 7×7 shed?
A 7×7 ft (2.1×2.1 m) DIY shed costs about $900–$1,800 AUD, depending on timber type and cladding. A kit version typically ranges from $1,500–$2,500 AUD. The total cost depends on foundation type, roofing, and finish quality.
Do sheds add value to houses?
Yes. A well-built garden shed improves functionality and visual appeal, potentially increasing resale interest. While it may not drastically raise the formal valuation, it can add $3,000–$10,000 in perceived value by offering storage or a hobby space.
What is the most cost-effective way to build a shed?
Use treated pine framing, corrugated metal cladding, and a mono-pitch (single-slope) roof. Build on timber posts rather than a full slab if the ground is level and dry. Shop during winter sales or bulk-buy timber and screws for extra savings.
How do I waterproof a shed?
To make your shed waterproof:
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Apply exterior sealant to all joints and screw holes
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Use roofing felt or membrane under the roof
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Paint or stain with a weatherproof timber coat
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Ensure roof overhangs and ground drainage prevent pooling
What is the cheapest time of year to buy a shed?
In Australia, the cheapest time to buy a shed or materials is during late autumn and winter, when suppliers clear stock. End-of-financial-year sales (June–July) can offer 10–25% discounts on timber, hardware, and shed kits.
How do you insulate a shed?
For year-round comfort, line your shed with foil-backed insulation or foam boards between the wall studs and rafters. Add plywood or plasterboard for a neat interior finish. Insulation reduces heat in summer, cold in winter, and condensation overall.
What is the cheapest material to build a shed?
The most affordable materials are treated pine framing with corrugated iron or metal cladding. It’s durable, termite-resistant, and easy to install. Recycled or reclaimed materials (pallets, second-hand tin) can further reduce costs if properly sealed.
Are metal or wood sheds better?
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Metal sheds: cheaper, fire-resistant, and low maintenance, but less insulated.
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Wood sheds: warmer, easier to repair, and more attractive but need upkeep.
A hybrid option — treated timber frame with metal cladding — gives the best balance of cost, insulation, and durability for Australian conditions.
