Building a Small Utility Shed

Q: I would like to build a small utility shed. What would be the easiest method for a first-time DIY’er to construct a roof?

A: For a small outbuilding, you might consider a simple shed roof, also called a lean-to roof. A shed roof is essentially one half of a gable roof that has a single, shallow slope. Both ends of the roof rest on top plates, so marking and cutting the rafters is easy.

Construction basically requires that you determine the rafter lengths, lay out the pitch and calculate the overhangs. Cut bird’s mouth notches in the rafters to seat them on the top plates, and toe-nail them securely with 16d nails.

Hot Product

Trex® Protect tapes
TREX® PROTECT

No matter what material is used for the surface of a deck, the substructure is likely to be built with wood. Over time, water leaking through deck boards can cause hidden damage unless the wooden joinery of the foundation is properly protected. In fact, builders have reported that wood left exposed to the elements can […]

Read More >>