DIY Steel Shed

Build Foundation

• Construct a base of concrete you mix yourself or have delivered on a truck. Construct a framework for the base by installing 2x6-inch boards to make a square or rectangular box. Place 10-inch stakes around the outside of the boards to hold them in place while the concrete dries. If you plan to drive a riding lawnmower into the building, add metal gridwork under the base before you pour the concrete, to help prevent the concrete from cracking under weight.

Erect Metal Framing

• Build the framework for the shed from steel strips that can be screwed together in sections. Use stainless steel screws to hold the steel roof rafters and wall rafters together. Rent or buy a metal saw to cut the metal strips. Place rafters and wall studs 18 inches apart, and slope each side of the roof on a 45 degree angle, which will provide some overhead storage space. Leave a front door opening 12 inches wider than your riding lawnmower, so you can drive it inside.

Install Steel Sheets

• Purchase steel in 4x8-foot sheets or larger to attach over the framework. Overlap the roof and wall sections to help prevent rain leakage. Caulk all gaps and seams carefully to secure the building. In order to cap raw edges, cover exterior corners and roof edges with metal strips made for this purpose. Metal sheets have very sharp edges, so never leave these exposed.

Install Door on Tracking

• A roll-up door is a popular choice for steel sheds. But, you can create a wide front door by installing a steel door that slides left to right on tracking. Find a door system being recycled or buy a new door with new tracking. Don't try to build a door made of steel from scratch, unless you can cover all perimeter edges with expertise. Use a wooden threshold below the metal track system at the bottom of the door. Wood will give extra support when you drive your lawnmower inside.

Install Interior Storage

• Before you start to bring items into the shed, take time to construct wooden or metal shelves. It's difficult to make room for shelves once you start to pack items into the shed. Find recycled metal shelves or construct a framework for wooden shelves from 2x4-inch lumber. Add sheets of ½-inch plywood to form the shelves. Lay metal rafters in the shed to hold large items that fit into the attic area. Store lumber, skiis or building supplies there.