As with all big projects, take the time to evaluate your needs, the available space and the projected costs of the job. Determine the size that corresponds to your needs. What role will the garage or the shed play? Do you need a workshop or a storage area for tools and firewood? If so, plan the necessary space for either project, consult our garage planning guide or our shed planning guide for a detailed list of the construction costs you’ll need to budget for and list of estimates you’ll need.

Get a free, online printable shed plan or printable garage plan and a list of all the materials you’ll need to complete the project or consult our building plan bank, offered in collaboration with Planimage. Check with your municipality to determine building norms and regulations that control the dimensions and don't forget to apply for a construction permit.

Determine the area where you plan to build. Before you begin, thoroughly examine your location certificate to find the official boundaries. If it is lacking important details, call in a surveyor to stake out the exact location. When building a garage, you’ll gain by using specialized contractors. Next, select the exterior siding, vinyl, aluminium or wood, taking into account the colour and siding type of your house. Don’t forget to choose matching asphalt shingles! If the garage is attached to the house, plan for the required renovations such as an inside access door. Before going to the store to choose a garage door, make a list of your constraints and preferences and take precise measurements of the door opening. A well-insulated door is highly recommended.

It’s also at this stage that you need to think about the interior design of your garage or shed. Where will you place the electrical outlets? What kind of lighting will you need? Do you have storage shelves on the wall? All of these choices may influence one or more of the garage or shed construction stages.

RONA’s step-by-step project guides will help you install the garage door and windows. Also see how to install the gutters, shingles and exterior siding.

If you’re planning to have a small workshop in the building, you’ll find advice on how to choose your workbench and to store everything by maximizing your space. For any questions related to the planning and construction of your project, consult our online experts at any time! Visit our Building a garage and Building a shed sections.