How to Build a DIY 6×6 Shed
A garden shed is a great way to store tools, garden supplies and equipment. It’s also a nice place for kids to play or just relax.
Start by framing the walls. Shed wall framing is similar to floor framing, but instead of joists, you’ll have studs and top and bottom plates.
Floor
A skid foundation puts the shed floor joists on a series of pressure-treated wood skids. It’s an easy option for small sheds on flat sites, but it’s less stable than other options. To make it work well, the joist spacing should match the original shed floor joists.
A true concrete foundation is labor intensive and expensive to build. It requires pouring a concrete pad that’s at least as deep as the frost line, and you may need special equipment to excavat that much soil. This isn’t a DIY option for beginners, and it’s usually combined with post-and-beam construction.
Another quick and easy foundation option is to use concrete block stacks on compact gravel base after confirming the site is precisely level. They’re a good choice if the shed site collects water, but they won’t hold up as well as concrete pavers on sloping ground. This is an excellent choice for shed kits that don’t come with a floor kit.
Walls
Depending on your specific needs, there are many different options for the wall structure of your shed. Typically, shed walls are constructed from plywood sheets and can be left bare or covered in plank flooring, hardwood, carpet, or any other material that suits your purpose.
Shed wall framing is similar to floor framing but is built using studs instead of common joists. Each stud will have four top plates and four bottom plates that are fitted to the girders. Use 2″ screws to fasten the plywood sheets to the studs and girders. Ensure the plywood is cut to proper dimensions and fitted tightly. It should also be secured along the perimeter with 6d nails to prevent sagging and warping over time.
Sheds can be constructed on a concrete slab or with a pier foundation. The latter is more time consuming and requires excavation and concrete pouring but will provide an incredibly strong foundation for your shed.
Roof
This shed plan features a single plane roof for a contemporary look that’s ideal for an office or studio. It also comes with wide doors and windows for added functionality and style.
Construct the walls of your shed following the guidelines on the diagram. Make sure that the wall frames are plumb and square by measuring them with a spirit level. Use 2×6 boards to frame the shed walls and fasten them together with screws.
Hoist the roof frame over the wall frames and install soffit brackets. Attach the sheathing to the frame and fit shingles over the roof. Fasten the steel drip edges to the fascia and rails. Then, paint the shed to protect it from rain and snow. This will keep it looking fresh and new for years to come. Check with your local building department to see if you need any permits to build your shed. If you do, obtain them well in advance to avoid any delays in the construction process.
Doors
A shed is the ideal place to store lawn and garden tools, but it can be much more than that. Adding a few simple touches can add functionality and style.
The first step is to frame the door. Use 2×4 lumber and cut the components to the right dimensions. Then fit them to the front wall frame, aligning them with attention and using 6d nails to lock them into place.
The next step is to install the door trim. This can be done in a variety of ways, but the most common is to use PVC trim (Azek is one brand). You can also use engineered wood-fiber trim such as James Hardie. Once the trim is installed, you can install the door hinges and hang the door. Finally, you can add window shutters if you’d like. These are a great finishing touch to any shed and will help to protect it from the elements. They can also add a rustic look to your garden shed.