subject: 3 Critical Steps to Choosing DIY Shed Plans [print this page] As soon as you choose to embark on a new wood working project you really like to get stuck in straight away! There are numerous places to buy plans for sheds and selecting a quality set of plans will help to ensure the success of your build. Before you rush off and buy a set of DIY shed plans there are three critical things to look at which should form part of every 'how to build a storage shed' checklist.
Even before selecting the location or the design it is essential to check with the regional building and zoning department or council. These departments have assessed and accepted (and unfortunately declined!) thousands of plans for sheds and a telephone call to your local agency can save a mountain of misery later. These councils have all the specifications relating to major wood working projects such as sheds and their guidance is invaluable for the remainder of your projects success.
Zoning covers things like the footprint, height and location of your shed. Different areas have different rules. You may be required to submit your plans including a site plan and get a permit which is displayed on site. If parts of the build have to be certified or signed off by the building department you may want to consider a contractor to assist with some of the work.
You can select the position of the shed once you are clear on the building requirements. The first thing to do is to decide on where you are able to put your shed that fits within the building departments rules. For instance if you are required to have an offset from the fence that will put some areas out of bounds. You can then site the shed for practical convenience, think about the size and height, entry, orientation and the overall look - you want it to look right!
The 3rd of the steps, which many diy'ers mistakenly put first, is the purchase of your DIY shed plans. Now you are aware of the physical requirements and position you are a lot better prepared to pick your ideal shed from the many plans for sheds. You can take into account the building department regulations when looking at size and height and other dimensions and detail and decide what design will look the best in the location you have selected.
Wwood working projects of this size should be a fantastic delight and achievement. This outcome is best achieved by careful planning well before the first scoop of dirt is turned. The best plans for sheds include much more than just materials, dimensions and blueprints and good quality DIY shed plans enable everyone to take on these great projects . Look for those that also provide practical, in-depth assistance that will assist you to complete the project, do the 3 critical checks and you'll soon be one who knows how to build a storage shed - successfully!
