How to Build a 3-Sided Shed

Because of it's simple design and simple materials, it doesn't cost much to build either.

1. Measure out and level an area that is 6 feet by 6 feet. If you wish, remove 2 inches of top soil and fill it with fine gravel to prevent the area from becoming muddy when it rains.

2. At the corners of the leveled area, dig four post holes, 12-16 inches deep. Cut four pieces of 6-by-6 post and fit them into the holes. The front two should be 6 feet tall above ground level, and the back two should be 5 1/2 feet above ground level. Fill in around the posts with cement, making sure they are straight with your carpenters level, and allow the concrete to set for at least one day. Refer to the diagram.



3. Nail a 2-by-6 inch board across the front and back posts so that it extends over the height of the posts by 2 inches. Refer to the diagram for exact placement.



4. Cut 1-by-12 inch pressure-treated boards to size, and nail them to the posts to cover the sides and back of the shed. Start with the first pieces 1 inch off of the ground--this will prevent moisture in the ground from causing rot prematurely.



5. Nail 1-by-12 inch boards across the 2-by-6 inch boards to create a sloping roof, from front to back. Allow an overhang of at least 1 inch on the front, back and side, more if the climate is particularly wet.

6. Cover the roof with tar paper, and secure it with staples or roofing nails. If you wish, add shingles to the roof. Put your first row of shingles at the lower edge of the roof, then overlap by 1 inch as you add rows.