How To DIY A Budget-Friendly Storage Shed That Won't Break The Bank
We may receive a commission on purchases made from links.
If you're like most homeowners, you likely own a bunch of things that help you stay on top of the maintenance that comes with owning a house. From lawnmowers and edge trimmers to gardening tools, ladders, DIY paraphernalia, and more, that's a lot of stuff that needs a home. If you've already tried every storage trick to maximize space in your garage, it makes sense to have an outdoor shed. Buying a shed is easy enough, but if you have the tools and a bit of DIY savvy, why not build one instead?
A budget-friendly shed is more than possible to build yourself. By constructing a sturdy wood frame with 2x4s and covering it with affordable, weatherproof materials like tarp, plastic sheeting, or even corrugated metal panels, you'll soon have a place to house your tools and anything else that can't live in the house or garage. This type of basic DIY project offers a cost-effective alternative to pre-built sheds while allowing you to customize the design for your specific storage needs. You can even turn it into a mini greenhouse with some glass panels.
Basic guide to building your own storage shed
To build your budget-friendly storage shed, start by constructing a wooden frame using 2x4 boards. How many you'll need will depend on the size shed you're looking to build. For a typical 6 feet by 8 feet structure, somewhere in the region of 25 2x4s should suffice. Once you have your frame in place, the next step is to cover it. Materials like a heavy-duty tarp, clear plastic sheeting, or corrugated metal panels can all work well. It really comes down to your preference, budget, and climate.
If you want additional protection, you can even add a door, or glass panels to make a mini greenhouse. However, if yours is a lo-fi shed, covering it on three sides, while leaving the front open, is also an option. And while the framing itself is fairly straightforward, you'll want a second person to help with positioning the roof. Also, having some basic DIY tools and supplies on hand will make the process easier. How much you end up spending on this project will depend on what you use for the covering: a tarp will be cheaper, while metal sheeting or plastic sheeting may cost more.
DIY vs. buying a pre-built shed: which is the better option?
When deciding whether to build your own shed or buy a pre-built one, there are a few things to weigh up. Assuming an average cost of $3.50 per 8-feet 2x4, you can expect the materials for a 6x8 frame to cost around $90 for a bare bones DIY shed. Add another $50 or so for tarp and you're looking at a total of $150. On the other hand, basic pre-built sheds usually start at $200. That said, when you build a shed from scratch you get more control over the materials, which means you can keep costs low while also ensuring that the design fits your specific needs.
In terms of longevity, a well-built DIY shed can last just as long as a pre-built one, provided you use weather-resistant materials like treated wood and good quality tarp. However, pre-built sheds, especially those made from galvanized steel, may be a more robust solution in harsh weather. One of the best things about building your own shed is the total control you have over the size and layout. Pre-built options, on the other hand, stick to the manufacturer's design. You may also need to add a simple foundation for your DIY shed to keep it stable, whereas pre-built sheds sometimes come with a base, which means one less thing to think about. At the end of the day, it all comes down to your budget, timeline, and how much flexibility you want. DIY sheds are cheaper and more customizable, but if you're looking for something quick and easy, a pre-built option might be your best bet.