Build a Shed: LIVE!

comments (47) August 3rd, 2009 in Blogs

john ross, Web Producer

52 users recommend

UPDATE: FineHomebuilding.com's live stream from the set of the video series Build a Shed with Rick Arnold has ended. Watch the completed edited video series now.

Produced by: John Ross and Dariusz Kanarek

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Welcome to FineHomebuilding.com's first-ever live build, a behind-the-scenes look at the production of our upcoming video series, How to Build a Shed. Follow along with seasoned contractor and long-time contributing editor Rick Arnold, and our producers, as we spend five days behind the cameras producing a multipart video series on how to build a backyard shed.

Three Ways to Watch:

UPDATE: The live broadcast of our project has concluded.

Watch recorded episodes. If you miss our live interviews from the set with they are available for viewing on our archive page.

Watch the complete series. Build a Shed with Rick Arnold, the complete video series, will be available for viewing in September on our web site along with detailed downloadable shed plans that you can adapt for your yard.

About the Shed

If you’ve ever thought of building a shed in your back yard this video series is a must see. Whether you want a storage shed, a garden shed, or a tool shed, our step-by-step video coverage will provide all the information and access you need to build a shed from the ground up.

Along with the video we’ll have shed building plans available for download, as well as in depth articles on building the shed roof, setting the shed’s foundation, framing walls, and options for shed storage.

Read Rick's 2008 article on Shortcuts to a Shed from Fine Homebuilding issue #194.

NOW PLAYING: Build a Deck with Rick Arnold

Watch Rick Arnold in our previous video series as he builds a classic deck start to finish. See the entire process from pouring the foundation to applying the decorative trim details. Plus, download a PDF with the complete framing and finish details for the deck built in this video series. Watch now...

Build a Deck - Video DVD
& Magazine
From the editors of Fine Homebuilding 45-minute how-to video and companion magazine $12.99 more info...

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On set with Build a Shed

Comments (47)

Hudson3882 writes: Nice job guys! I spent the whole week drafting at work on the computer and watching you guys at the same time.

I think this is a great start to something that become quite useful. Some closer shots and some more integrated blogging and tips from the contractors would be great. Jobsite humor is just a great bonus. Wish I could have had some that kung pao chicken though...
Posted: 5:22 pm on August 7th

MBrink writes: Great show!!

I'm a software developer with a background in construction. I've had the stream on in the background & watched all week while coding. I learned some things, had some laughs & miss the days when I was on job sites every day. It's a great profession.

Thanks. I hope you do it again some time.

Mitchell

Posted: 4:50 pm on August 7th

nboucher writes: I have long thought of building a 10' x 12' shed to turn into a year-round woodworking shop (maximum size in my town to avoid a building permit). It would contain a table saw, bandsaw, workbench, router table, & lots of hand tools. What design modifications would Rick recommend for building a shed for such a purpose: running out electricity from the house, installing insulation, etc.?

I look forward to the final, edited video!
Posted: 12:53 pm on August 7th

epirnik writes: Hi Inga,

We should have the finished, edited series on the site in September.

Cheers,

Ed

PS: I think the guys are checking the comments everyday. I don't know as to his married "status." ;)
Posted: 12:06 pm on August 7th

IngaWeston writes: I've been enjoying the shed project on and off all week. Just a few comments / questions:

Why haven't the guys videotaping lent a hand doing some of the work. Granted, they have to videotape portions but they seem to have extra time on their hands. Obviously John Ross has construction experience. Maybe Rick Arnold is afraid they'll slow things down.

When will the final produced video be available?

The tall skinny guy is rather handsome. Is he married? I like his sense of humor.

Will you be doing any humorous YouTube videos from clips of this program? If so, keep us posted.

Inga
Posted: 11:15 am on August 7th

Nordener writes: Gentlemen,

Thank you for the entertainment this week! You should sell this as a daily series to Comedy Central! The dry humor is priceless...more songs and random visitors!
Posted: 5:12 pm on August 6th

epirnik writes: Just in case anyone's looking for information on the not-so-conventional sheathing used on the shed project, have a look at senior editor Justin Fink's article from 2008.

http://www.finehomebuilding.com/how-to/departments/tools-and-materials/weather-resistant-sheathing-zip-wall-and-roof-panel-system.aspx?ac=fp
Posted: 12:11 pm on August 6th

Viki_Wooster writes: My girlfriend and I are going to help each other build sheds. The lumber package should be arriving any minute. This is a very timely program, but we can't watch the live feed and build at the same time! Bummer. We've both been designing homes for many years, but we get to walk the walk now.
Posted: 1:23 pm on August 5th

starrysmom writes: Love the live video and audio feed -- it's like attending class for me
Posted: 12:10 pm on August 5th

goatriver writes: This is like watching paint dry! Get back to the instructional videos that don't waste people's time.
Posted: 12:05 pm on August 5th

John316 writes: Hi, again :),

I just watched one of yesterdays interviews, and found out why no piers... I understand that.

Thanks!
Posted: 11:31 am on August 5th

John316 writes: Hi,

I have also enjoyed watching this series. One comment, though, as some hopefully constructive critisicm. As I have watched, one thing that has caught my eye a number of times is comments about saving money on xyz. Absolutely in the real world this is something that is dealt with day in and day out. But, I am wondering if on this website, Fine Homebuilding, things should be more focused on building a better (finer) and stronger product, and not as MUCH about cost, although there still is a balance.

For example, not pouring piers for the shed. Ok, the cinder blocks are acceptable, but it seems like doing something well, would no doubt be to sink four piers. The shed would not go anywhere. Also, discussions about 16oc vs. 24oc. Is budget really that tight? Viewers can scale back the example that they see you set for budget purposes, but I would think that they would scale up what they see you build.

IMHO, it seems on this website, you should encourage people to build over and above code specs, for a more solid end product. And, saying this, I know that what you are building is not going to fall apart.

Just my $0.02.
Posted: 8:52 am on August 5th

RArnold writes: Wheezer, come on down and man the live feed camera. I agree with some of the complaints about the distant fixed shot. Having a mobile camera move around the set would be much more entertaining, in more ways than one.

Luke, better looking actors? You mean I shouldn't quit my day job? Hopefully tomorrow (Wed.) they're going to let us get some production done on the remaining 3 walls and roof, of course it's supposed to rain so we'll see what happens.

Woodless, We "are" statues standing around waiting.
I don't think we've done anything of significance off camera, maybe cut a few boards, maybe there's a problem with the feed.

Falsedawn, We answered your questions, along with a few others, on the end of the day wrap up which the boys should be posting this evening while they are sitting in the hotel room with nothing else to do.

Thanks all for your comments and participation, it sure is a new experience for me. It keeps me a little out of my comfort zone and on my toes all day. I suspect that some who tune in also watch car racing for the same reason, they're waiting for the crash.

Rick A
Posted: 9:07 pm on August 4th

falsedawn writes: Great idea for a webcast.

I know everyone has their own methods. But why not wait until the wall is erected to install the window? You can then use a level and make certain the window is level. You make a huge assumption that the bottom of the sheathing is square and will be level to ground. And window tape? It's a shed, not a house!

Posted: 4:33 pm on August 4th

epirnik writes: Hi folks,

All good suggestions that I'm forwarding to the crew!

Cheers,

-Ed

Posted: 4:00 pm on August 4th

WoodLess writes: I'd like to see your live feed refresh rate increased. It looks like the guys are statues that move occasionally. There also appears to be work being done off camera which would be interesting to see. For example, the framed side was carried in and put on the platform but we never saw the side being framed up.

Chuck
Posted: 3:38 pm on August 4th

luke writes: You will need better looking actors if your making a film. If your trying to show me how to build a shed the directors should move, stop talking and film the carpentry work!
Posted: 3:05 pm on August 4th

luke writes: You should move the guy on the ladder out of the viewing area. A good closeup shot we be great! I think the is a great idea.
Posted: 2:55 pm on August 4th

luke writes: What great concept! This is very cool, maybe next time it will look less like a poorly made youtube video!
Posted: 2:51 pm on August 4th

johncbrownmd writes: Considering the cold climate are the concrete blocks good enough for support or do you need footings - and are using the blocks up to code. By the way where is the building permit?
Posted: 2:06 pm on August 4th

Wheezer writes: LOL... I am a filmmaker (would rather be a carpenter)so naturally first thing my eye goes to when i log on is the "c-stand" in the foreground.
Posted: 12:23 pm on August 4th

LeighDavis writes: theres something wrong with the computer i think all i see is a big white space where the live video is supposd to be.
Posted: 12:11 pm on August 4th

LeighDavis writes: hi daddy im watching you but im going tobedoing some stuff with mom (painting). And what about goats.
Posted: 11:59 am on August 4th

slkopald writes: This production crew is a comedy of errors. Looking forward, way forward, to the building process!!
Posted: 10:06 am on August 4th

epirnik writes: Good point, Justin. I stand corrected.

Please be advised that I'll be lobbing spitball mortars into your cube. Attack will commence sometime after 09:30 hours.

Hooah!
Posted: 9:45 am on August 4th

JFink writes: Found it...the Bostitch Strapshot. A really, really neat tool - one that we should do a video of, actually. The way the nosepiece works is very neat.

http://www.finehomebuilding.com/toolguide/product-finder/bostitch-mcn150-strapshot-metal-connector-nailer.aspx?view=ur

Posted: 9:26 am on August 4th

JFink writes: We should note, Ed - pneumatic nailers would not be impossible for attaching joist hangers. There are a few companies that make positive placement nailers for this application. The Bostitch Strapshot is one we have reviewed in the magazine before. I'm sure the review is even on the site someplace.
Posted: 9:20 am on August 4th

John316 writes: Ahhh - ok. Thanks!
Posted: 4:04 pm on August 3rd

epirnik writes: Hi John316:

At this point, they're nailing joist hangers so nailers would be impossible.

Of course, there is also the fact that sometimes it's just fun to swing a hammer!

Best,

Ed

Posted: 3:54 pm on August 3rd

John316 writes: I'm curious - why aren't they using pneumatic nailers?

Thanks!
Posted: 3:46 pm on August 3rd

Al - Florida writes: This is really great. I enjoy the discussion on the floor and moisture. I am planning on building a shed here in Florida and I need to protect the flood from moisture, but I am also very concerned about the space between the floor and the ground from becoming a home for insects and snakes. I dont want to fill it with concrete but I am looking for a solution. I hope there will be a plan online for this project.
Thanks Al
Posted: 3:37 pm on August 3rd

jross writes: The mosquitoes are fierce!
Posted: 2:21 pm on August 3rd

epirnik writes: Hi ChuckB,

The fellas will in fact be zooming in when they return from their lunch break, not to worry.

Best,

-Ed

Posted: 1:17 pm on August 3rd

ChuckB writes: Hi boys - This is really thrilling, but I think it would be more thrilling if you moved the camera closer to the action so those of us at home could see what's going on. And John Ross, those are killer bird calls you're doing....
Posted: 1:10 pm on August 3rd

epirnik writes: RC:

Our term - when I was apprenticing with a timber-frame carpenter years ago - for those times when it just seemed to take forever to get the steam really going, was "craft project."

Seems like even the most simple things have the uncanny ability to turn into these craft projects that take way too long.

Cheers,

Ed

Posted: 12:33 pm on August 3rd

RC writes: Reminds me of when I asked the superintendent what to put on my timesheet for the time we spent milling about - he said to put down "JPL" - Job Planning and Layout. Plenty of JPL happening here! I know, I know - it's got me watching!
Posted: 11:51 am on August 3rd

epirnik writes: Hi geeDavid,

I have a feeling that once these guys start making some sawdust - we'll be in business!

Cheers,

-Ed

Posted: 10:58 am on August 3rd

geeDavid writes: I like the whole, "Is this live? Now? How many?" So far, of couse, I am learning more about how to produce a video. It's cool, though.
Posted: 10:47 am on August 3rd

epirnik writes: Hi folks,

Just wanted to let you know that sound is indeed back. Our apologies for that extended "coffee break," as trolleydrver so aptly put it!

Cheers everyone,

-Ed

Posted: 9:32 am on August 3rd

trolleydrvr writes: Like all good contractors/subs, they're probably on coffee break now, that's why no sound.
Posted: 9:29 am on August 3rd

johncbrownmd writes: No audio
Posted: 9:23 am on August 3rd

JFink writes: Am I the only one not getting any sound?
Posted: 9:22 am on August 3rd

GEide writes: Morning folks! Fun to see you up and at it this a.m. getting all mic-ed up. (way more exciting than the shots of FHB cube-land last week) Good luck with the shoot this week! -Gina
Posted: 9:19 am on August 3rd

laurarubia writes: Note: if they lose their feed temporarily you may not see any action on your screen for awhile- if you refresh your screen it will hook you back up with the live action!
(my daughters keep waving to you guys on screen! This is almost as good as Dora!)
Posted: 8:07 am on August 3rd

Robbie_HMDF writes: I'm very excited about tuning in on Monday, and looking at the storage going up. This will definetly help a lot of people that want to become do-it-them-selfers. That's for this site...
Posted: 5:06 pm on July 31st

bmoxiebmore writes: this is an awesome concept. I love what you guys do there, but this a new height. keep up the good work.
Posted: 4:20 pm on July 28th

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