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How-To

Introduction: How to Build a Simple but Sturdy Tool Shed

Build a classic shed with digital plans, a series of videos, and trade secrets and time savers from the pros.

By Rick Arnold

In this Fine Homebuilding video series, veteran contractor Rick Arnold and his helper construct a sturdy, attractive backyard tool shed. You’ll see firsthand what’s involved in locating and leveling the foundation, framing the structure, installing doors and windows, installing siding efficiently, and even landscaping effectively.

In addition to video, you’ll also find complete 3-D plans with Rick’s notes on construction as well as Rick’s Fine Homebuilding article on shed building, a design gallery of great ideas for detailing a shed, and excerpts from The Taunton Press’s best-selling book (or ebook) Building Sheds by Joeseph Truini. We’re also including a collection of how-to articles covering many of the crucial processes involved in building a shed. Written by the best builders in the country, our articles explain in easy-to-understand terms the best practices used by builders across the country. Keep in mind that building codes governing shed construction vary from region to region. Always consult local regulations before starting work. And good luck on your project! Upload photos of your project to our readers gallery when you’re done!

Building Sheds by Joseph TruiniBuilding Sheds by Joseph Truini is available through the Taunton Store.

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Shed-SketchUp-PlanDownload the Digital Project Plans

Online members can download the digital project plans with complete construction details as a PDF or a SketchUp file you can customize.Shed Plans PDF

Shed Plans SketchUp (zipped)

Photo Gallery: Sheds

Inspiration

Browse photos of sheds in our reader gallery for inspiration or upload photos of your own shed project.

 

Shed Gallery

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Rick Arnold's Shortcuts to a Shed

Don’t miss Rick Arnold’s article Shortcuts to a Shed from Fine Homebuilding #194.

 

 

 

 

 

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Videos in the Series

  • Introduction: How to Build a Simple but Sturdy Tool Shed

    Build a classic shed with digital plans, a series of videos, and trade secrets and time savers from the pros.

  • Build a Tool Shed Series: Install a Block Foundation

    Locate, square, and level your shed foundation quickly using the floor framing as a template

  • Shed Floor Framing Basics

    Get your shed off to a good start. Learn how to size, cut, and assemble a square and level floor frame for your shed.

  • Build a Tool Shed Series: Building a Gable-End Wall, Pt. 1

    While simple to accomplish, this advanced technique of framing and siding a wall before raising is a real time saver

  • Build a Tool Shed Series: Building a Gable-End Wall, Pt. 2

    Install the window, trim, and shingles to the gable-end wall then lift it into place

  • Build a Tool Shed Series: Building the Bearing Walls

    Learn a valuable wall-building technique that applies to any house as well as this shed

  • Build a Tool Shed Series: Build the Roof (Part 1)

    In the first part of this two-part episode, Rick and Mac get started building the roof by laying out and building the roof trusses

  • Build a Tool Shed Series: Build the Roof (Part 2)

    In the second part of our episode on framing the shed roof, you'll see the framing come together as Rick and Mac install the site-built roof trusses and sheathing

  • Build a Tool Shed Series: Installing Trim

    Learn how installing trim can easily dress up the shed to give it a finished look

  • Build a Tool Shed Series: Installing Windows and Doors

    Learn the ins and outs of installing windows and doors in this episode of our series How to Build a Shed. Rick takes you from a framed opening to a finished installation with his fool-proof process.

  • Build a Tool Shed Series: Installing Lap and Shingle Siding

    In this episode of How to Build a Shed learn two sure-fire techniques to side an exterior wall with lap siding or shingle siding

  • Build a Tool Shed Series: Install Architectural Shingles

    Learn time-saving tricks for handling shingles on a steep roof as well as tips on reducing waste.

  • Build a Tool Shed Series: Foundation System

    Learn the basics of the most common shed foundations and what to consider when deciding on the right foundation for you

  • Build a Tool Shed Series: Siding Options

    Get an overview of siding options for your shed as Rick explains his choices for siding materials

  • Build a Tool Shed Series: Accessorize Your Shed

    Build a ramp for easy access to larger yard equipment. Also, watch as Mac assembles a small planter box to spruce up the front

  • Build a Tool Shed Series: Shelving and Storage Options

    Rick describes his favorite choices for site-built shelving and other ways to make the most of your shed

  • Build a Tool Shed Series: Landscaping Completes the Look

    For this video, Rick enlists the folks at Fine Gardening Magazine. Learn how top-notch techniques from landscaping professionals completes the cottage look.

  • Shortcuts to a Shed

    Shortcuts to a Shed

    Time-saving tips about planning, materials, and construction that will get any outbuilding up in a hurry.

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About This Video Series

This Fine Homebuilding video series follows Rick Arnold as he constructs a charming and sturdy backyard tool shed. Each episode walks you through an entire phase of shed construction. Follow along as Rick and his helper build a solid foundation; frame the floors, walls, and roof; install doors, windows, trim, and siding; add shelves and other accessories; and finally finish off the job with some landscaping. In addition to the video, you’ll also find complete… More about this Video Series

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