Video Series

Video Series: How to Build a Tool Shed

By Rick Arnold

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 3D plans with Rick’s notes on construction plus a design gallery of great ideas for detailing a shed. If you’re looking for even more shed construction ideas, take a look at Rick Arnold’s article, “Shortcuts to a Shed.”

Building Sheds by carpenter Joseph Truini is another great resource for shed-building ideas.

Buy the book
Download the ebook

Download 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)

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

Shed Gallery
Upload Your Project

Start Watching

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

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

About Video Series

Fine Homebuilding is constantly producing new videos to provide you with the details and techniques you need to build beautiful, high-quality homes. Watch all of our videos to see builders, remodelers, and other tradespeople demonstrate how to do a top-notch job when installing foundations, roofs, and everything in between.

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