Shed Stores What The Garage Can’t

The garage is filled with lawn mowers, bikes, pool supplies, gardening tools, trash cans, old furniture - and that’s in addition to the car. Sound familiar? If storage space is in short supply, this large shed is an outstanding candidate for your next big do-it-yourself project.

Measuring 12 feet long by 8 feet wide by 8 feet tall, the shed is built primarily with 2-by-4 and 1-by-6 Douglas fir studs and 4-by-8 sheets of Douglas fir plywood. The best thing about a wooden shed, of course, is that it won’t rust and will hold up longer than a metal storage building. This design also features a cement floor and includes a lockable door and window, so tools and other valuables can be stored safely.

The project is pretty straightforward. First, lay the cement slab. Then frame the sides with 2-by-4 studs, and attach them to anchor bolts in the floor. Nail several sheets of plywood into place to form the walls. After nailing the rafters on, hanging the door and applying paint or stain, attach the plywood roofing and nail on roofing paper and shingles.

The average do-it-yourselfer will need a couple of Saturdays to finish the project.

The Utility Building plan, No. 713, is $6.50 and includes complete step-by-step directions with 16 photos, exploded diagrams and a shopping list and cutting schedule.

A package of storage shed plans, No. C68, is $14.95 and includes plans for this shed and two smaller ones. Prices include sales tax, postage and handling (for first-class mail, add $1 per item).

MEMO: To order, clip this article and send it with a check or money order to U-Bild Features, c/o The Spokesman-Review, P.O. Box 2383, Van Nuys, CA 91409-2383. Please specify plan numbers.