Once the foundation is ready, you are ready to start framing. You will either be following a set of plans and cutting the framework yourself or if you purchased a pre-cut wooden shed kit, you will use the provided instructions and start laying out the pieces.

Now that the framework has been completed, you will have to cover the outside walls with some type of siding. You could use a wood such as cedar, which has a natural resistance to bugs and decay. Another option is plywood siding also known as T1-11. T1-11 is a plywood with vertical grooves cut into it to give the appearance of individual boards. Like cinder blocks, T1-11 is readily available from your local building supplier. You could also choose to cover your wooden shed with a siding made from compressed wood fiber. Two such products are called Duratemp and Smartside. Most contractors prefer these products over T1-11 because of its longevity. These are purchased with pre-applied paint that makes them virtually maintenance free. Be sure to paint any cut edges to protect the exposed material from the elements.

As with the siding, there are also a few options for roofing materials. The most common is asphalt shingles. Asphalt shingles are relatively inexpensive, fast and easy to install, durable and come in a wide variety of colors. Cedar shingles offer a great look to your shed as well as being a durable roofing product. Cedar also handles wind and hail quite nicely and has been a time-tested product. A third option for your shed’s roof is metal. A metal roof is a more expensive route initially, but is worth the price for its longevity. Metal roofs can last 50-60 years or more. They also come in a wide variety of colors and styles. Some shed owners have also used corrugated sheet metal to top off their wooden sheds.

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If you decide you aren’t ready to build a wooden shed from scratch, then you should consider purchasing a wooden shed kit. They take a lot less time to build (once its delivered) and they require less carpentry skills which makes this the perfect way to go as a first-time woodworking project.

Wooden sheds are best placed in plain view from your windows because you will want to take advantage of their natural beauty. The foundation should be flat but slightly sloped back towards the rear of the shed for proper water drainage.

Once you’ve found the best location for your shed and properly prepped the site, simply stake out where the four corners of the shed will go and tie strings between the stakes. Make sure to use a level along the strings. For this, you can purchase a very inexpensive level that has a hooked wire that you attach to the strings.

The best permanent solution for a foundation is to pour a concrete slab. But, if you decide to build your shed on a wood foundation or “skid” you’ll have the advantage of being able to move your wooden shed since its not permanently set in one place. The boards act similar to the way the rails of a sled slide across snow.

The best material to build your wooden shed is arguably cedar. Cedar is a hardwood that has natural rot resistant and insect repellent characteristics.

You’ll want your shed to last a lifetime – and it should! Make sure you use quality materials and keep them protected from the elements with a good water sealant. With proper care and upkeep, your shed will bring you years of enjoyment.

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