Before choosing DIY shed plans, it is important for you to determine what kind of shed you need, how big the shed needs to be, what will be stored inside the shed, and where on your property the shed will be built. These factors will help determine the best DIY shed plans for your purposes. Be sure to check the plans for the building requirements: what types of tools will be needed, how much time it will take, what kind of carpentry skills will be necessary to complete the project, and so on. DIY shed plans will vary according to the materials used as well, so be sure you choose plans that use the materials you have chosen.
The layout and size of your shed will vary depending on what you intend to use the shed for. A simple tool shed may not require much space, and the construction will be relatively simple. A shed that is going to house large machinery or even automobiles will be much larger, which means the DIY shed plans will be much more in-depth. Decide what you will be using the shed for and determine what type of foundation you will need. Choose DIY shed plans that include the foundation type you intend to use. Sheds that will house heavy machinery or automobiles will require a concrete slab, while tool sheds or garden sheds may simply need concrete footings or concrete blocks for the foundation.
The terrain on which the shed will be built will also affect DIY shed plans. If your yard is sloped, be sure the shed plans account for this. If your yard is quite small, the shed plans should reflect this by reducing the footprint of the finished shed. If you plan on matching the aesthetic of your shed with the visual appearance of your house, try to choose shed plans that will allow you to customize accordingly. Most sheds can be customized by painting, staining, or by installing siding, so look for plans that will allow you to do this.
Materials will affect the shed plans as well. Many sheds are made from wood, but not all woods are the same. Pressure treated lumber should be used in the DIY shed plans, or alternatively, cedar should be used because it is naturally resistant to water damage such as mold, mildew, and rot. If you plan on building a metal shed, or a shed with a metal frame, be sure to choose DIY plans that address the process of installing such a frame.