
Introduction: Building Your Own 70+ Shed With Floor Joists Building a shed can be a rewarding DIY project, providing valuable storage space and enhancing your property. This step-by-step guide will walk you through constructing a sturdy 70+ square foot shed (e.g., roughly 7ft x 10ft, adjust dimensions as needed) with a robust floor joist system. We'll cover everything from planning and materials to construction and finishing touches.
Step 1: Planning and Design Before you even think about picking up a hammer, careful planning is crucial. Start by determining the exact dimensions of your shed. Consider what you'll be storing and how much space you need. Research local building codes and permits required for shed construction. Sketch out a detailed plan including the floor joist layout, wall framing, roof design, and door/window placements. A clear plan saves time and prevents costly mistakes later on. List out all the materials needed based on your plan.
Step 2: Gathering Materials and Tools Prepare a comprehensive list of materials, including lumber (pressure-treated for ground contact and floor joists), sheathing (plywood or OSB), roofing materials, siding, fasteners (nails, screws), doors and windows, and any necessary hardware. Essential tools include: Measuring tape Circular saw Drill/driver Level Square Hammer Safety glasses Gloves Sawhorses You may also need a post hole digger for foundation support, depending on your design. Source your materials from a reputable lumberyard or hardware store, ensuring you select high-quality materials suitable for outdoor use.
Step 3: Building the Foundation The foundation is the most critical part of the shed. Choose from several options: concrete slab, gravel pad, or pier foundation. For a shed of this size, a pier foundation with concrete footings is a good option, offering stability and good drainage. Dig holes for your piers, ensuring they are spaced according to your floor joist layout. Pour concrete into the holes and embed metal post anchors in the concrete while it's still wet. Allow the concrete to cure completely before proceeding.
Step 4: Constructing the Floor Joists This step is essential for a strong and level floor. Cut the pressure-treated lumber for the perimeter frame of your floor. Assemble the frame, ensuring it's square and level. Secure the corners with screws or nails. Install the floor joists within the frame, spacing them evenly (typically 16 inches on center). Attach the joists to the frame using metal joist hangers for added strength. Add blocking between the joists for added stability and to prevent twisting. Once the joist system is assembled, attach the subfloor (plywood or OSB) to the joists using screws.
Step 5: Framing the Walls With the floor in place, it's time to frame the walls. Cut the lumber for the wall studs, top plates, and bottom plates. Lay out the stud spacing on the top and bottom plates (typically 16 inches on center). Assemble the wall frames on the floor, attaching the studs to the plates with screws or nails. Frame openings for doors and windows, adding headers above the openings for support. Raise the walls one at a time and secure them to the floor frame, ensuring they are plumb and square. Brace the walls temporarily to keep them stable. Connect the walls at the corners, overlapping the top plates and securing them with screws or nails.
Step 6: Installing the Roof The roof provides protection from the elements. Build roof trusses or rafters according to your roof design. If using trusses, set them in place on the top plates of the walls, spacing them evenly. If building rafters, cut and install them individually, ensuring they are properly aligned and supported. Attach sheathing (plywood or OSB) to the rafters or trusses, covering the entire roof surface. Apply roofing underlayment (felt paper or synthetic underlayment) to the sheathing. Install your chosen roofing material (shingles, metal, etc.) according to the manufacturer's instructions.
Step 7: Installing Siding, Doors, and Windows Give your shed its finished look. Install the siding, starting at the bottom and working your way up, overlapping each course. Secure the siding to the wall studs with nails or screws. Install the doors and windows in the framed openings, ensuring they are level and plumb. Caulk around the doors and windows to seal out moisture.
Step 8: Finishing Touches The final touches make all the difference. Add trim around the doors, windows, and corners of the shed. Paint or stain the siding and trim to protect the wood and enhance its appearance. Install any desired shelving, workbenches, or other interior features. Clean up the area around the shed and dispose of any leftover materials.
Conclusion: Enjoy Your New Shed Congratulations! You've successfully built a durable and functional shed. With proper maintenance, it will provide years of reliable storage. Enjoy the added space and improved organization that your new shed provides. Remember to periodically inspect your shed for any signs of damage or wear and make necessary repairs to ensure its longevity.
Cedar Lap Siding Deluxe Estate Sheds

Homestead Storage Shed Kit By Dutchcrafters Amish Furniture

12x12 Shed Foundation Avoid
