Best Books for Building a Shed: 7 Awesome Choices

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Were you one of those kids who always wanted to build a treehouse? And then, as an adult, does the thought of having a backyard with a cozy little space for storage sound appealing to you? If so, this article is for you.

The problem that people face when building sheds is that they don’t know where to start. There are two choices: hire someone, or do-it-yourself. The first option can be expensive and time-consuming; the second offers freedom but usually requires more skill than most people have.

That’s why we created this article to help you take advantage of both options by showing you books with step-by-step guides on how to build a shed. These books will guide you with the tools, material, and equipment you’ll need to do do it yourself.

Regardless of what type of storage space you’re looking for, these best books on building sheds will help you take the next step.

Below are seven books we believe will be extremely helpful for those planning to build a shed:

1. Building a Shed (Taunton’s Build Like A Pro) by Joseph Truini

In this book, Joe Truini guides readers through each step, from assessing storage demands to fundamentals of construction to adding the final touches on the roof.

It’s packed with helpful illustrations. Each phase is explained using both text and images, allowing you to know exactly what you’re supposed to do at any given moment.

The author has added plans for four different types of sheds. You can easily follow a specific project or simply take inspiration to build a brand-new shed for your backyard. Whether you’re a complete beginner or an experienced DIYer, this book covers everything for you.

Pros:

• Detailed illustrations
• Have tips for building sheds through a contractor
• Plans for Four types of sheds

Cons:

• It doesn’t have lists of material 

2. Building Ideas and Plans for Every Shape of Storage Structure Published by Oxmoor House

This is an ideal book for someone who needs a shed and is not sure where to start. The book goes over the styles, supplies, tools required, and other basics of building a shed. It has well put together plans that go from simple to more complicated designs.

There are also more than three hundred step-by-step drawings and photos to help you understand the processes that go into constructing a shed. Even if building a shed is your first task as a do-it-yourselfer, you will find this book very helpful.

Pros:

• Covers many types of sheds
• Has free and paid plans

Cons:

• Only available in paperback

3. The Do-It-Yourself Guide for Backyard Builders by David Stiles

David is an experienced self-builder with quite a few ‘how to’ books under his belt. He used layman terms to describe everything from the foundation to types of sidings, best roof, and many more. In addition, the book contains several ideas that you can easily modify.

With each design, the author has included a slew of tips, secrets, and possible adaptations.

The is the best book for someone who has prior hands-on experience with construction since certain parts may be confusing for novices.

Pros:

• Practical tips and advice by the author
• Has cost estimates
• Step by step illustrations

Cons:

• Not for novices

4. Greenhouses & Garden Sheds: Inspiration, Information & Step-by-Step Projects by Pat Price

Although the book mainly focuses on greenhouse garden sheds, it can be used as a general reference tool for anyone interested in building sheds.

The first half of the book is more about inspiration and offers a lot of great photos. If you have a creative mind, you will enjoy going through those pages alone. After that, the author jumps straight into step-by-step instructions on how to build a greenhouse.

All the instructions are comprehensive and come with a lot of drawings, photos. The author has explained everything in understandable style and layman terms.

Pros:

• Lots of photos
• Good for amateurs

Cons:

• Doesn’t cover as many types of sheds as other options

5. How to Build a Shed by Sally Coulthard

This gem of a book by Sally includes everything that you need to know for building a shed. Starting with the tools and materials required. It has detailed instructions that are very easy to understand.

The author has added specially made diagrams which make it perfect for beginners.

This book also teaches how to select the materials for your project, what tools you’ll need, and where to get them. In short, it will help you build a shed even if you haven’t used a drill in your life before.

Pros:

• Highly detailed illustrations
• Have lists of tools and materials needed

Cons:

• Only flat roof plans 

6. Ultimate Guide: Barns, Sheds & Outbuildings

This book includes over 100 plans for sheds and other storage barns. It goes over the planning process, tools needed, materials needed, and safety tips to make sure you are building your shed to perfection.

It also has dedicated chapters on every part of the building process, with information on the selection and construction of foundations, framing, roofing material, etc.

The book also has a wealth of nitty-gritty details about constructing a low-maintenance shed and keeping it in good shape.

Pros:

• Covers broad topics like wiring, repair, and maintenance
• Easy to follow Instructions

Cons:

• Information is not very detailed

7. The Complete Guide to Sheds by Black & Decker

This book covers all kinds of sheds, from garden sheds to large storage sheds. The authors have combined their decades of experience into a comprehensive guide that benefits both amateur and professional builders.

The book offers many valuable tips and tricks for making your shed unique. It also goes through all the steps you need to maintain and repair your shed.

The authors have included every essential information in simple language. As a result, this is one of the finest books for someone who has no prior construction experience.

Pros:

• Covers many types of sheds
• Offers maintenance tips

Cons:

• Lacks in planning for floors

Conclusion

Building a shed is not an impossible task. With the right book, it can be fun and rewarding.

Your dedication, a good plan, detailed instructions, and the right tools are all you need to do this job well.

We hope you found something useful in our list of best books for building sheds. 

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