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If you're looking to build a slant roof shed, you're in luck because there are many free plans available online. These plans can be downloaded and printed for easy reference.
A slant roof shed is a great option for those who want to add some extra storage space to their backyard without breaking the bank. The cost of materials can be significantly lower compared to other types of sheds.
The free plans for slant roof sheds can be found on various websites and are often accompanied by detailed DIY instructions. These instructions can guide you through the entire building process, from preparing the site to installing the roof.
A typical slant roof shed plan includes a list of required materials, including lumber, roofing materials, and fasteners.
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So Many Uses!
Lean to sheds are incredibly versatile, and one of their best features is their ease of construction. The roof on these sheds is a simple "shed roof" with a single slope, making it a breeze to build.
You can use lean to sheds for a wide range of purposes, from storing firewood and bicycles to holding trash cans and motorcycles. They're also great for workshops, studios, and even backyard home offices.
The smaller lean to sheds, like the 4x6 plans mentioned, are often built and placed up next to an existing structure, with the low front side containing your doors. This design makes them perfect for tight spaces.
One of the most exciting things about lean to sheds is that you can easily turn them into tiny houses, studios, or even bungalows. With the addition of windows, entry doors, and some interior finishing touches, your lean to shed can be transformed into a cozy retreat.
In fact, a customer who built an 8x12 lean to shed using a saltbox shed plan actually added ventilation to the design by using vents down around the bottom of the walls and up towards the peak of the front roof line. This shows just how easy it is to customize and upgrade your lean to shed.
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Materials and Tools
To build a slant roof shed, you'll need a variety of materials and tools. For the frame, you'll need 2x6 lumber, specifically 12 pieces of 2x6 PT lumber - 12 ft long, and 8 pieces of 2x6 lumber - 156" long.
You'll also need 2x4 lumber, with 10 pieces of 2x4 lumber - 12 ft long, 1 piece of 2x4 lumber - 10 ft, and 40 pieces of 2x4 lumber - 8 ft. For the rafters, you'll need 9 pieces of 2x6 lumber - 12 ft long.
Here's a list of some of the tools you'll need:
- Hammer
- Tape measure
- Carpentry square
- Miter saw
- Drill machinery
- Sander
- Router
- Safety Gloves
- Safety Glasses
- Respiratory Mask
Materials
You'll need a variety of lumber for your project, including 2×6 lumber, 2×4 lumber, and 4×4 lumber. The specific types and quantities will depend on the design, but as an example, you might need 10 pieces of 2×6 lumber, 9 pieces of 2×6 lumber, or 20 pieces of 1×4 lumber.
For the floor frame, you'll need 2 pieces of 2×6 lumber that are 12 ft long, and 10 pieces that are 141″ long. The skids will require 5 pieces of 4×4 lumber that are 12 ft long.
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You'll also need plywood for the floor, with 3 pieces that are 48″x96″ long and 3 pieces that are 48″x48″ long. The side walls will require 2 pieces of 2×4 lumber that are 137″ long, and the back wall will require 2 pieces of 2×4 lumber that are 12 ft long.
Here's a breakdown of the lumber quantities:
You'll also need various types of screws, including 1 5/8″ screws, 2 1/2″ screws, and 3 1/2″ screws. The specific quantities will depend on the design, but as an example, you might need 1000 pieces of 1 5/8″ screws, 250 pieces of 2 1/2″ screws, or 500 pieces of 3 1/2″ screws.
In addition to the lumber and screws, you'll need other materials like T1-11 siding, metal roofing, and PVC windows. The specific types and quantities will depend on the design, but as an example, you might need 10 pieces of T1-11 siding, 12 pieces of metal roof sheets, or 1 piece of PVC window.
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Tools
To build a DIY lean to shed, you'll need the right tools for the job. A hammer is a must-have for any carpentry project.
You'll also need a tape measure to ensure your measurements are accurate. A carpentry square is another essential tool for checking your corners and ensuring they're square.
A miter saw is a powerful tool for making precise angled cuts in your wood. You'll also need a drill machinery to drill holes and drive screws. A screwdriver is handy for driving screws by hand, while a sander will help you smooth out any rough edges.
Safety gear is also crucial when working with power tools. Safety gloves will protect your hands from cuts and abrasions, while safety glasses will shield your eyes from debris. A respiratory mask is also a good idea when working with wood and other materials that can kick up dust.
Here's a list of some of the most common tools you'll need to build a lean to shed:
- Hammer
- Tape measure
- Carpentry square
- Miter saw
- Drill machinery
- Screwdriver
- Sander
- Safety gloves
- Safety glasses
- Respiratory mask
Some other tools that may be useful depending on the specific project include a jigsaw, chalk line, spirit level, and drill bits.
Design and Size Options
When designing a slant roof shed, it's essential to consider the size options available.
A typical slant roof shed plan can range from 6 to 12 feet wide and 8 to 16 feet long, depending on the desired storage space.
The roof pitch can also vary, with a moderate pitch of 4:12 being a popular choice for its balance between snow load capacity and ease of construction.
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Large
A large shed can be a great addition to any backyard, and it's essential to consider the size and design options carefully. For a 12×12 lean to shed, you'll need to build a floor frame using 2×6 lumber, with joists placed every 16″ on center.
Cutting the joists from 2×6 lumber is a crucial step in building the floor frame. Make sure to drill pilot holes and insert 3 1/2″ screws to assemble the frame, ensuring the corners are square.
Using pressure-treated lumber for the floor frame is a good idea, as the boards will be exposed to moisture. You can also consider using pressure-treated lumber for the skids to protect them from moisture.
The skids will lift the floor frame from the ground, and you can lock them together with rafter ties and 1 1/2″ structural screws. It's essential to leave no gaps between the plywood sheets and secure them into place every 8″ along the joists using 1 5/8 screws.
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A 10x16
A 10x16 is a popular size for outdoor sheds, offering a spacious interior with a footprint of 160 square feet.
This size is ideal for storing larger items like lawn mowers, bicycles, and gardening equipment.
With a 10x16 shed, you can also consider adding windows for natural light and ventilation.
According to our size options, a 10x16 shed typically has a roof pitch of 4:12, which provides a sturdy structure for heavy snow loads.
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Construction and Framework
When building a slant roof shed, the construction and framework are crucial components. A typical slant roof shed has a pitch of 3:12 to 4:12, which means for every 12 inches of horizontal run, the roof rises 3 to 4 inches.
The rafters are usually spaced 16 to 24 inches on center, depending on the shed's design and local building codes. You can use 2x4 or 2x6 lumber for the rafters, but always check the manufacturer's recommendations.
A simple and cost-effective way to construct the framework is to use a pre-made shed kit, which usually includes the necessary lumber and hardware.
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Making the Base
To make the shed base, you'll need to start by cutting two structural pieces of timber down to the same depth as the existing shed.
Cutting the timber to the right depth is crucial to ensure a solid foundation for your lean to shed.
To determine how wide the spars need to be cut, place the two structural pieces on the ground and take a measurement.
The spars should be evenly positioned to provide maximum support for the shed base.
Predrilling the timber before screwing it together will help prevent splitting and ensure a sturdy base.
You can also use a combination of treated pieces of timber and gravel for drainage, making it easier to get the shed level.
Alternatively, you can prep a concrete base, use sand and paving slabs, or even a few pressure-treated fence posts, depending on your budget and preferences.
Regardless of the method you choose, make sure to treat the end grain cuts of the timber to prevent moisture damage.
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Framework
Building the framework of your project is a crucial step. You'll want to start by lining up your structural pieces of timber, just like the lean to shed example shows, where the top and bottom of the side panel are lined up.
To ensure accuracy, measure and mark evenly on both pieces where you want your upright spars to go, as demonstrated in the lean to shed example. This will help you achieve a sturdy and stable framework.
Roofing and Cladding
For a slant roof shed, you'll want to consider the type of cladding and roofing material that suits your needs. A roof slope of 2 in 12 is a common choice for larger lean to sheds, keeping the slope lower and material costs down.
You can use either asphalt shingles or metal roofing, but be sure to check the manufacturer's specifications for installing shingles on a low slope roof. Typically, you'll need to install a 36 inch wide roll roofing or Ice and Water shield before the shingles are installed.
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When it comes to cladding, you have several options, including OSB, plywood, and tongue and groove cladding. If using tongue and groove cladding, make sure to nail it in properly, starting with an overhang on the bottom to act as a skirting around the base.
You can also use strips of pallet wood or tongue and groove offcuts, butted together where the joins rest on the spars, for added strength. To cut the cladding, consider using a flush trim router bit to trim excess material, or a jigsaw to carefully remove the excess, checking for resistance when you feel it.
For a more rustic look, consider using long pieces of pallet wood or OSB, which can be cut down to size. Alternatively, you can use asphalt shingles or metal roofing, with the latter requiring a PBR metal roof shape designed for low slope roofs.
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Cladding the Roof
Cladding the roof is an essential step in completing your lean to shed. You can use a variety of materials, including strips of pallet wood, butted together where the joins rest on the spars.
For a more traditional look, consider using tongue and groove offcuts, arranged in a running bond pattern for extra strength. This style is perfect for creating a rustic, countryside feel.
You can also use long pieces of cladding, if you can source them. Alternatively, a sheet of plywood cut down to size can provide a smooth, modern finish.
OSB is another option, offering a cost-effective solution for cladding your lean to roof.
Cladding a
You can use various types of cladding for a lean to shed, such as OSB and plywood, but they're less attractive and best with trim detail throughout.
Tongue and groove cladding is a popular choice, and it's a good idea to start with an overhang on the bottom to act as a skirting around the base.
To avoid any odd looking gaps around windows, doors, or when the panels are screwed on, make sure to nail them in properly.
Cut an angled piece first before nailing on, and nail a whole piece at a time, then trim with a flush trim router bit.
Hand saw the excess off carefully and check when you feel resistance, or use a jigsaw to remove the excess.
When it comes to the floor, use a strong enough plywood that can withstand walking and heavy items, and screw it down to the spars with an impact driver for quickness.
For the roof, you can use strips of pallet wood, butted together where the joins rest on the spars, or tongue and groove offcuts in a running bond pattern for extra strength.
You can also use long pieces of cladding if you can, or a sheet of plywood cut down to size.
Here are some options for cladding the roof:
- Strips of pallet wood
- Tongue and groove offcuts
- Long pieces of cladding
- Sheet of plywood cut down
- OSB
Hardware and Finishing Touches
To add a touch of professionalism to your slant roof shed, you'll want to focus on hardware and finishing touches.
Screw hinges to the top and bottom of the door where the supports are behind. This will provide a sturdy attachment point for your door.
A pad bolt is also a must-have to secure the door in place. For more help, read the author's collaboration with Hiatt Hardware during their bike shed project.
To prevent the door from pushing in and putting pressure on the door's overhang cladding and hinges, screw on a stop lat.
Doors and Storage
You can build lean to sheds with doors on any of the 4 walls, allowing you to orient the sloping roof and footprint of the shed to suit your needs.
Placing the door on the end of the shed is a great option when building next to a house, as it allows easy access to the shed while still using all available space between the house and fence.
Our larger lean to sheds, 8x8 and larger, come with the option of a home built door or a pre-hung door, with plans and materials lists included for the home built door.
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Doors
If you're building a shed, the door is a crucial part. For a matching sloping panel with a door, you'll need to use un-ripped CLS timber if you're planning heavy-duty hinges and a 5-lever mortice lock.
The location of the door is also important. Most lean-to shed designs allow you to place the door on any of the four walls, giving you flexibility in how you orient the roof and footprint of the shed.
To build the door frame, you'll need to fit 2×4 jambs around the door opening and lock them into place with 2 1/2″ screws. Then, cut all components for the frame from 2×4 lumber and assemble them tightly with 2 1/2″ screws.
You can choose between a home-built door or a pre-hung door, depending on your preference and the size of your shed. For a home-built door, you can customize it with options like deadbolts, different jamb thicknesses, and door threshold.
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To attach the door to the shed, fit it to the front of the garden shed, align the edges with attention, and lock them to the jambs with hinges. Attach a latch to lock the doors together tightly.
The type of door you choose will depend on your needs and the style of your shed. A pre-hung door, for example, gives you the option of having a door style that's hard to build at home.
Storing Stuff:
A lean to shed is a great solution for storing things, it's simple to build and very functional.
The single plane sloping roof allows you to build next to a fence and have the roof line at the top of the fence level or next to your house and have the entire roof sloping away from the house keeping moisture away from the house.
Our lean to sheds can be built immediately next to an existing structure with the roof sloping away.
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The roof is easy to build because each rafter is one board that slopes from one side of the shed to the other.
You can attach the lean to shed to an adjacent structure and have the tall wall removed, but be sure to check with a local structural engineer to make sure the wall is sufficiently strong to hold the new roof.
The lean to shed style is one of the most popular designs, with detailed plans showing the location of every board in all the shed walls and shed floor.
Every set of plans comes with a How To Build A Shed eBook that walks you through the steps cutting and installing the roof rafters for a lean to shed roof.
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Roof and Additional Features
Lean to sheds have a roof slope of 2 in 12, which keeps the slope lower and material costs down. This design allows for the use of asphalt shingles or metal roofing.
Asphalt shingles require a special solution for low slope roofs, such as installing a 36 inch wide roll roofing or Ice and Water shield before the shingles are installed.
The
The "The" in Roofing Terminology is a bit of a misnomer.
The term "The" is often used in the context of roofing materials, particularly in the case of asphalt shingles, which are commonly referred to as "the" most popular roofing material.
The "The" in this context is actually a reference to the fact that asphalt shingles are often sold in bundles of three, with each bundle containing three individual shingles.
The use of "The" in this context is a holdover from the early days of asphalt shingle manufacturing, when shingles were indeed sold in bundles of three.
Roof
Creating a slanted roof for your lean-to shed is a bit more involved than a traditional square roof. To build a lean-to sloping roof, you'll need to use narrower panels, which are typically built after the first square panel is complete.
To cut a slope on top of the first panel, you can toenail two sides of the framing timber directly on top, and a bottom stud. Then, lay middle spars that are longer than needed, and use a temporary piece to hold them in place.
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You can use strips of pallet wood, butted together where the joins rest on the spars, for cladding the lean-to roof. Alternatively, you can use tongue and groove offcuts in a running bond pattern for extra strength.
A lean-to shed roof typically has a roof slope of 2 in 12, which keeps the slope lower and material costs down. This is a good option if you're looking to save some money.
If you choose to use asphalt shingles, be sure to check with your roofing manufacturer's specifications to verify the process for installing shingles on a low slope roof. In most cases, you'll need to install a 36 inch wide roll roofing or Ice and Water shield before the shingles are installed.
Metal roofing is another option for a lean-to shed roof. You'll need to use a metal roof shape called PBR, which is designed to be installed on low slope roofs. You can order it cut to the length needed for your shed roof from a local roofing supplier or home store.
Here are some common materials you can use for cladding a lean-to roof:
- Strips of pallet wood, butted together where the joins rest on the spars
- Tongue and groove offcuts, in a running bond pattern for extra strength
- Long pieces of material, if you have enough
- Sheet of plywood cut down to size
- OSB (oriented strand board)
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the ideal slope for a shed roof?
For effective water run-off, a shed roof's ideal slope is between 3 and 5 degrees. A steeper slope of 7.5 degrees or more ensures reliable water run-off and prevents issues.
What do you call a shed with a slanted roof?
A shed with a slanted roof is commonly known as a slant-roof shed, lean-to shed, or skillion shed. These types of sheds are in high demand due to their unique design and functionality.
Sources
- https://www.shedking.net/lean-to-shed-building-guide.html
- https://gardenplansfree.com/storage/12x12-lean-to-shed-free-large-shed-plans/
- https://howtospecialist.com/outdoor/10x16-lean-to-shed-free-diy-plans/
- https://thecarpentersdaughter.co.uk/woodworking/how-to-build-a-lean-to-shed/
- https://www.icreatables.com/sheds/shed-plans-lean-to
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