#howtobuildashed

How to Build a Backyard Shed From Scratch — A Complete Guide for Total Beginners

$800Avg DIY cost

$5,000+Contractor cost

1–2 daysWeekend build

Thinking about building your own backyard shed but have zero woodworking experience? You are not alone — and the good news is that a beginner can absolutely build a solid, functional shed from scratch in a single weekend with the right plans.

Here is what every beginner needs to know before they start:

Choose the right size first. An 8×10 ft shed is the perfect beginner size — large enough for real storage, small enough to manage on your own. Most areas do not require a building permit for sheds under 200 sq ft, but always check local rules before you start.

Pick a flat, well-drained location. Build on ground that is within 6 inches of level. Avoid low spots where rainwater collects — this is the most common beginner mistake that causes shed floors to rot within a few years.

Use pressure-treated lumber for the base. Pressure-treated wood resists rot and lasts decades. Use it for your floor frame and foundation skids — your shed will thank you 10 years from now.

Get plans with a full material list. The single biggest time-waster for beginners is making multiple hardware store trips. A good shed plan includes a complete cut list and material list so you buy everything once and start building immediately.

Basic tools are all you need. A drill, circular saw, hammer, tape measure, and level are enough to complete a full beginner shed build. You do not need a professional workshop. Building your own shed costs a fraction of hiring a contractor. DIY shed builds average $800–$1,200 in materials — compared to $5,000–$10,000+ for professional construction of the same size. That is real money back in your pocket.

The secret most beginners do not know is that the quality of your shed plans determines 80% of your result. Detailed blueprints with step-by-step diagrams, measurements, and a material list turn a complicated build into a simple follow-the-instructions project — even for a first timer.

I have put together a full beginner guide covering the easiest outdoor wood projects you can start this weekend — including complete shed plans with everything you need to go from an empty backyard to a finished structure you will be proud of.