Sheds can be demanding in terms of costs and features. They have to be weatherproof, easy to maintain, and affordable. It’s like a staple of your backyard, so getting it right can make your everyday life much more convenient.
Fortunately, with a wide variety of options, Theble in the market sheds that can be constructed on almost every budget. However, the options can also be overwhelming. If that’s the case, read on as we break down what factors influence the cost of shed construction and which is the best choice.
Building a Shed From Scratch
Building a shed costs an average of $3000-$6000, depending on your location. Of course, this price can grow year by year, but in the foreseeable period, this is what you can expect.
The price varies depending on the cost of materials in your location. For example, constructing a shed in Montana can cost between $2,500 and $20,000, depending on the size, design, and material you choose.
Here are the major factors that influence the cost of building a shed:
Size
Sheds can be built in different sizes depending on their purpose. Will it be a simple storage structure, a home gym, or an office space? What is the property size? How big of an area do you have to build the structure?
While there are no standard sizes, most sheds are typically constructed in the following sizes:
- 8×8
- 8×10
- 8×12
- 10×12
- 12×12
- 12×16
If you need simple storage space for your garden tools, supplies, or yard equipment, 8×8, 8×10, and 8×12 shed sizes will complete the work. For a bigger storage space to hold larger equipment and even small tractors, you can go for 10×12 or 10×16 sizes.
Building Material
Now comes the real expense–shed materials. You’ll need material for the foundation, wood frame, roof, interior walls, and door. The choices here will significantly impact the total cost of your shed construction. Let’s start with
Foundation
While there are many types of shed foundations, here are the most common ones:
- Timber frame
- Concrete blocks
- Skids
- Pole barn
- Concrete slab
- Concrete piers
However, concrete and brick foundations are the most popular ones because of their stability and durability. Creating a shed base can cost around $5 to $37 per square foot.
Walls
If you are building a metal shed without finishing the structure on the inside, the metal wall can serve as both the interior and exterior wall. However, if you need interior walls–say for your office shed, you’ll need shed walls. Such walls are typically constructed with lumber (2x4s)
The lumber price typically ranges between $1 and $5 per square foot.
Roofing
Since they are affordable, easy to install, and available in various colors and styles–asphalt shingles are the most common roofing choice for sheds. You can also use metal roofing, but it needs to be installed professionally.
The US’s average cost of asphalt shingles is $1.71 to $3.12 per square foot or upwards of $172 per square.
Building Permit
As per the City Zoning Ordinance, you might need a permit to build a shed. However, it will depend on your municipality’s regulations and shed size. Small sheds (smaller than 120 square feet) typically do not require permits.
A building permit for small projects can cost you $50 to $300, whereas for larger construction, it can go up to $2000.
Labor Cost
While all the above factors are non-negotiable, labor costs are where you can save real bucks. If you choose to build the shed on your own, with a little help from friends and family, you won’t have to spend a dollar on labor.
But building a shed from scratch will be a big project–especially for newbies. So, if you are short on time or don’t wish to tackle the project independently, hire a professional contractor. They will be responsible for all your shed’s safety and design aspects. Plus, their construction will also easily pass inspection.
Before hiring, however, check the contractor’s proof of licensing and insurance. Also, check reviews and ask for references for their work quality.
Constructing your Shed – DIY Project
Constructing your sheds yourself can be a rewarding experience. If you’ve already rolled up your sleeves, here are two options you have to start building your shed:
Shed Plan
A shed plan is an easy-to-follow building plan, material list, and visual breakdown of each step. It’s ideal for people with some construction skills since you’ll need to use tools and follow the plan.
These shed plans are often inexpensive (well under $20). All you need is the material, and you can work with the plan as your guide. This way, you can save money when shopping for materials and negotiating for the best prices. Plus, you can customize the shed as much as you want.
Prefab Shed Kit
Another less creative path is prefab shed kits. The shed kits will include all the materials you need to construct a shed and detailed instructions. However, this is the costlier option because the kit is expensive and does not allow customization.
It’s a great option, however, if this is your first DIY project since you’ll have everything without sourcing material.
Get Constructing
You now have a detailed breakdown of the shed construction cost. The next move is yours. Evaluate all the factors according to your needs, preferences, and budget, and build a shed you can be proud of, which will make your everyday life easier.
