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Even though the construction of a shed can be a large-scale project, it is in fact, composed of a series of relatively simple steps. By following the proposed plan, you will be able to build your shed without too much difficulty and benefit from the multiple advantages that a shed offers, for many years.
Get your own free plan for this shed (Model R-10A) as well as the list of materials required for the project. For viewing and printing, you will need to use Acrobat Reader software. |
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Be aware that ... | |
Whatever your choice is, be sure its construction is carried out in keeping with municipal by-laws, which of course vary from one city to another. Typically if a building is under 100 square feet a building permit is not required but please contact your local building department. |
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1. Layout | |
First, of course, you have to layout the position of the building. |
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1.1 | |
It is important for you to delineate the perimeter of the shed before you begin construction. This will allow you to know its exact location right from the start. It will also reduce the risk of mistakes when you put in the foundation. So as not to be bothered by temporary marking stakes, trace triangles or right angles, using three 2 × 3 in. (50 mm × 76 mm) stakes, which will spill over the actual perimeter of the shed by two to three feet (see illustration), creating the impression of a second perimeter two to three feet larger than the perimeter of the shed. The triangles will allow you to attach strings that will form the four sides of the perimeter. The strings, which will delineate the actual perimeter of the shed, should cross precisely over the corners of the actual perimeter. |
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1.2 | |
To ensure the perimeter is square, use the 3 - 4 - 5 rule (measure 3' and 4' on the adjacent side the diagonal measure should be 5' if the corner is square). If the lines are not the same in length, the perimeter (whether square or rectangular) is not square. Then, make pencil marks (eight in all) on each of the right angles, opposite the strings. You may then remove the original stakes and prepare the ground for the type of foundation you have chosen. If need be, the strings may be removed temporarily so you can work inside the perimeter with whatever tools and machinery are required for the job. |
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2. Proceed to the concrete block foundation |
We recommend a concrete block foundation. The following few steps will describe what to do with this type of foundation.
However, there are two other options: concrete piers or concrete slabs. Before choosing one type of foundation or the other, check on your budget, the type of ground you are building on and the amount of work the option involves. We invite you to consult The types of foundations for your shed to know about the various types of foundations and what has to be done with each one. |
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3. Proceed with the head beam and wood floor | |
You are now ready to proceed to building the floor system. |
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3.1 | |
Arrange the floor joists (2 × 6 in. or 50 mm × 152 mm) so the overall outside dimensions correspond to those of the shed. Make pencil marks every 12 in. (305 mm) on two parallel joists. Draw right angles in accordance with the triangle method. |
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3.2 | |
Then, nail in the brackets centred every every 12 in. (305 mm) and slide in the stringers. Nail in the stringers. |
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3.3 | |
Nail the plywood to cover the entire floor surface. For maximum rigidity, the plywood should be placed perpendicular to the joists. (Construction adhesive spread over the joists can be used to stiffen up the floor system as well.) |
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