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Start Here: Shed Building Guides by Step

Updated October 31, 2026

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Open the shed cost calculator

Plan and price your shed

• Shed cost calculator
  Build vs kit vs builder for your size
• Cost to build a shed
  Real prices by size and type
• Shed plans
  Free vs paid, and what a good plan includes
• Shed Plans With a Cut List and Materials List
  Is a paid shed plan package worth it? What a good plan includes (materials list, cut list, dimensioned drawings) and the one check to make before you pay.
• 10x12 shed cost
  A real itemized $3,785 build
• 12x16 shed cost
  Cost range, build time, permits
• Shed kits buying guide
  Metal, wood and resin kits: what to check first
• Tools you need
  The short list, and what to skip

Permits and where it can go

• Shed permits
  The 200 sq ft rule and when it doesn't apply
• Shed size without a permit
  120 or 200 sq ft? Four real town rules
• Shed setbacks
  How far from the property line? Examples

Foundation and base

• Shed foundations
  Gravel, blocks, skids or slab
• Gravel shed base
  Dig, compact, frame and fill, step by step
• Shed on concrete blocks
  What works, and what fails in frost
• Shed on a slope
  Foundation options for uneven ground
• Anchor a shed
  Bolts, augers and what two cities require

Build it

• Build a shed floor
  Frame, joists and plywood
• Build a shed roof
  Gable trusses and lean-to rafters
• Build a shed door
  Prehung, plywood or sliding
• Build a shed ramp
  Slope math and a portable ramp

Other designs and gifts

• Lean-to shed plans
  The simplest shed roof, step by step
• Firewood shed plans
  Five simple designs that keep wood dry
• Gifts for DIYers and shed builders
  Tools, safety gear and plans (updated each fall)