Build the Perfect DIY Garden Tool Storage Shed on a Budget

Having the right storage for garden tools is a game-changer for any gardener A good storage shed keeps all your tools organized, protected from the elements, and easily accessible when you need them. But buying a pre-made shed can be expensive The solution? Make your own DIY garden tool shed for a fraction of the cost!

In this article, we’ll walk through everything you need to know to build your own custom garden tool shed on a budget.

Plan Out Your DIY Shed

The first step is deciding what size shed you need. Take an inventory of all the tools, equipment, and supplies you want to store. This will determine the interior dimensions. Then figure about 2 feet of extra space all around for the framing and walls.

Common sizes are

• 5×5 feet – Holds long-handled tools plus shelves for small tools and supplies. Good for small spaces.

• 6×6 feet – Fits a wheelbarrow and larger equipment like tillers. Still compact.

• 8×6 feet – Allows WIDTH for shelves plus open floor space. A very versatile size.

• 8×8 feet – Extra headroom for taller tools and room to add hooks on walls/ceiling.

Once you’ve settled on dimensions, sketch out a basic floor plan. Consider how you’ll organize and store items. This will help you plan the layout.

Choose Materials

For a basic garden shed, you only need simple lumber like 2x4s and plywood. Some good options:

• Framing – Use pressure-treated 2x4s for the wall framing and regular 2x4s for interior supports.

• Walls – Economy siding like T1-11 or plywood sheets make quick, inexpensive shed walls.

• Roof – Corrugated metal, asphalt shingles, and clear polycarbonate panels are common DIY-friendly roofing.

• Doors – Lightweight plywood is easy to work with for shed doors. Z-brace the back to prevent sagging.

• Hardware – Galvanized deck screws, exterior wood glue, door hinges, and hasps/latches.

Shop lumber yards, home centers, or salvage yards to get the best deals. Used and discount materials can make your shed very budget-friendly.

Build the Foundation

The shed foundation keeps the structure square and level. Here are some options:

• Concrete slab – A poured slab makes the strongest foundation. Dig, frame, pour concrete, and level.

• Concrete pavers – Arrange concrete patio pavers on a gravel base. Use edging to contain.

• Treated skids – Arrange treated 6×6 or 4×4 skids in a frame. Anchor with ground stakes.

• Raised bed – Build the shed on a raised bed framed with landscape timbers or 2x lumber.

Keep the foundation slightly larger than the shed to allow water runoff. Level carefully to prevent doors and windows binding later.

Construct the Wall Frames

The wall framing creates the shed’s structure and exact dimensions. Follow these steps:

1. Cut 2x4s to length for the wall base plates and top plates.

2. Mark stud spacing 16″ on center and assemble frames. Nail with 16d galvanized nails.

3. Make door and window headers by sandwiching scrap plywood between two 2x4s.

4. Anchor base plates to the foundation using anchor bolts or strapping.

5. Set up each wall frame one-by-one and anchor together at the corners.

6. Add diagonal bracing across the wall studs for stability.

Double check each frame is square using the 3-4-5 triangle method before fastening permanently.

Add Siding and Roof Sheathing

With the shell of the shed framed, it’s time to add the exterior walls and roof:

• For walls, nail siding directly to wall studs starting at the bottom. Overlap panels by one groove. Cut outs for windows/doors as needed.

• For the roof, cut sheathing like plywood or OSB boards to size. Stagger seams and leave a 1/8″ gap between sheets.

• Consider wrapping the corner edges with trim boards for a finished look if desired.

• Caulk gaps if needed when siding is complete.

Tip: Pre-paint/stain the siding and sheathing before install for easier coverage.

Build and Hang Doors

Doors are often the trickiest part of shed construction for beginners. Some tips:

• Use lightweight 1/2″ or 5/8″ plywood for doors to reduce sagging.

• Cut plywood to height and width of door opening minus 1/2″ gap on all sides.

• Attach trim boards around all edges to reinforce plywood. Use water-resistant glue and galvanized nails.

• Hang each door with at least 3 hinges. Anchor the hinges into wall framing, not just siding.

• Add a door pull, latch, and/or padlock hasp to finish it off.

Getting the doors to close cleanly and stay shut takes patience and adjustment. Don’t get discouraged!

Add Interior Elements

To make your shed fully functional, consider adding:

• Shelving along walls to maximize vertical storage. Use lumber or buy modular steel shelving.

• Pegboard for hanging often-used tools within easy reach.

• A built-in workbench for potting, repairs, etc. Build with 2x4s or use a prefab stand.

• Extra lighting. Windows provide some light but add LED shop lights for visibility.

• Ventilation. Add screened vents near roofline to reduce humidity/condensation.

Take time to think through layout and organization to customize your storage solution.

Finish the Exterior

For long-lasting weather resistance, properly finish the shed’s exterior:

• Fill all cracks and holes with caulk. Let dry completely.

• Prime all surfaces with exterior primer, especially end grains.

• Paint with exterior grade paint in your desired colors. Two coats provides best coverage.

• For a wood-toned look, apply water-repellent stain instead of paint. Re-apply every 1-2 years.

• Seal the roof with roofing cement or adhesive sealant along edges and seams.

Proper prep and finish protects your DIY shed investment for many years of reliable use.

Tips for Success

Building your own storage shed is very gratifying, but also challenging if you’ve never built before. Keep these tips in mind:

• Have two people for easier assembly.

• Allow more time than you think it will take!

• Charge drill/saw batteries fully before starting work sessions.

• Check dimensions at each step. Small errors add up quickly.

• Use lumber designed for outdoor exposure.

• Wear safety gear like glasses, ear protection, gloves, etc.

• Follow all tool safety guidelines.

• Check local permit requirements for shed size and placement.

• Watch online tutorials for building techniques unfamiliar to you.

• Most importantly, enjoy the project and don’t stress small mistakes!

With smart planning, quality materials, and perseverance, you can build a DIY garden tool shed on a budget that will serve your needs for years to come. Get started on your shed this weekend!