Author Archives: leantoshed

Dewalt DC740KA 12v Professional Drill Driver Review

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Dewalt DC740KA 12 Volt Professional Drill Driver, 2 Batteries 1.3 Ah and Carry Case

Overall Amazon UK Rating: 4.4 out 0f 5 stars.

Dewalt DC740KA If you are looking for a professional drill driver which is comfortable and easy to use, while at the same time delivering powerful performance the Dewalt DC740KA 12 Volt Professional Drill Driver could be the one for you.

The Dewalt DC740KA is the ideal weight for combined drilling and driving, and its compact design makes it the number one choice for working in confined spaces. The trigger and rubber grip are ergonomically designed for comfort and ease of use.

Buy Now On Amazon UK

The two speed gear box, a variable speed trigger and reverse switch give maximum control, reduces drill wandering and gives more bit life.

The Dewalt DC740KA drill driver has 14 position adjustable torque control for consistent screwdriving into a variety of different materials. There is an electric motor brake for added control, and all metal gearing for efficient power transmission and longer tool life.

Its one thing talking about how good a product is, but the real test comes when customers write their reviews after having purchased and used the product. This is what I found on Amazon UK.

The most helpful favourable review reads:

153 of 155 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars Professional performance for amateur price

I use one of these at work and the balance, speed/torque performance is superb and up to everything you’d expect from a professional 12v drill. We reckon DeWalt is the “Rolls Royce”. This one is an ideal weight for work combining drilling and driving. Let’s face it, if you are doing a lot of large diameter holes in masonry and no screwdriving you would get…. click here to read this review in full.

The most helpful critical review on Amazon UK reads:

16 of 16 people found the following review helpful:
3.0 out of 5 stars handy but not for heavy duty work

I have owned mine as an addition to my dewalt tools for site work.This is ideal for work using 2″ screws or less or small diameter drilling as batteries last for ever,but …….click here to read this and more reviews on Amazon UK.

Who Makes The Best Power Tools?

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The answer to the question, “who makes the best power tools” is, there is no right answer. There are so many different brands of power tools that it is near impossible to say one brand is better or more reliable than another. There are too many variables.

There is one method, however, of getting insights into who makes the best power tools, and that is to study consumer reports. These reports are a good starting point for those looking for an overall picture of which power tools perform the best. But make sure you read the criteria on which the ratings are based, which could be, for example, what the tool is used for.

You often find that friends or colleagues recommend their favorite brand of power tool, based on their own experience of using it. There is much word of mouth recommendation when it comes to deciding who makes the best power tools, and you can be sure, there is bound to be some disagreement. We all have our favorite brand of power tool which we often rigorously defend when others say theirs is a better make.

I know what my favorite make of power tool is, the Bosch 1590EVSK jigsaw.

Cordless Drill Drivers – Why You Need A Good Quality Cordless Drill Driver?

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Just in case you are not familiar with the term, cordless drill drivers, let me enlighten you. A cordless drill driver is a dual purpose power tool which is both a drill and a power screw driver. So you have the benefit of two tools in one, which comes in really handy for many DIY jobs.

Given that cordless drill drivers are sold at low and high prices, why should you spend you hard earned money on an expensive model when you could buy a cheaper drill driver? If you are asking yourself that question you must realize by now that the answer is always, you get what you pay for.

The plain fact is, that a more powerful cordless drill driver will be more pleasurable to use, and will benefit you more than a cheaper model, because it will be more efficient at what it does. Can you imagine the difference a well manufactured, precision power tool can make to those DIY jobs? Try it and see for yourself, by borrowing one from a friend if you do not already have one. Let me tell you, I would rather use the expensive one.

What To Look For When Choosing A Good Quality Cordless Drill Driver

  1. Speed. You need high speed for drilling and a low speed for screw-driving. It can be incredibly frustrating when your screwdriver is not powerful enough to drive a screw in all the way.
  2. When reading the manufacturers description, look for a drill driver which is powerful enough for your needs. My preference is for a 10.8 volt tool, though you can buy more or less powerful tools than this voltage.
  3. Comfort and ease of use are important factors, especially when you might be using this power tool for an extended period of time. Try handling the tool first before you buy, to see how it feels.
  4. Batteries. The best plan is to have at least two batteries charged up and ready for use. I prefer batteries which are not too heavy in weight, which charge quickly and at the same time hold their charge for longer.
  5. Buy one with an LED light. You won’t regret it.

If you are going to spend money on power tools it is always worth your while looking at the range of cordless drill drivers on the market, and deciding which one is the best fit for your pocket, both in terms of cost, and for convenience in carrying around with you on the job.

Plans For Sheds – The Foundation For Success

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It might seem like stating the obvious but plans for sheds are needed when you have an idea of the shape, size and location of your planned shed. If you search on the Internet you will find there are plenty of shed plans to look at. The ones to look out for are those that are easy to understand, step by step plans for your shed.

So where do you start planning for your outdoor shed?

1. Have a look around your property with an eye to best locations. Choose one that best suits your situation.

2. It is better to build the shed on level ground, that is situated in open ground, and has good drainage and light. Wooden sheds will last several years if you do not subject them to the ravages of wind and water.

3. Decide what size of shed you want. 12×12 storage shed plans are a popular choice with DIYers, but you can build it any size you like. It is best to plan shed a little larger than you think you will need.

3. This is where you look at some shed plans, from a variety of sources, be it the internet or your local hardware store. I like to look at pictures as my starting point for a new shed plan. Looks and size are important. Make your choice of material at this stage as well. I prefer sheds made of wood.

4. Before you go any further, you can choose to buy a shed kit, if this will suit your needs. If you decide to build the shed yourself, then a set of step by step shed plans are needed.

5. Take you shed plans to the lumber yard to buy the correct size and type of wood that you need, plus any other tools and safety gear that you need if you are building the shed yourself. If you do not already own a corded or cordless driver drill, I would recommend you read my review of the Makita 10.8v LCT203W, or the Bosch 1590EVSK Jig saw.

6. Finally, it is crunch time, that is time to build the shed. All the preparation and planning is completed and you are ready to go. This is why sheds for plans are so important. The finished construction depends on how accurate these are. If is your first self build, why not ask a more experienced friend to help you. You can learn a lot from a knowledgeable and skilled led woodworker, or someone who does this for a living.

7. If all this sounds a bit daunting, there is a product which will walk you through all this, and you can learn more about this by clicking the link. If you choose to buy a shed kit then none of this applies to you. But if you decide to build your own shed then the right plans for sheds are important, and you are more likely to be satisfied with the end result.

Makita 10.8v LCT203W Lithium Combo Kit – Makita Cordless Tools

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This is a cordless drill review for the Makita 10.8v LCT203W combo, which consists of a 1/4 inch Makita lithium drill and 1/4 inch Makita driver drill. These two Makita cordless tools are the ideal solution for small to medium drilling or screw/ bolt driving.

These powerful yet compact Makita cordless tools are built for maintenance professionals, repairmen, remodelers, electricians, cabinet installers, and any general contractor seeking an ultra compact cordless driver drill and impact driver with pro power and pro speed.

Click Here To Get The Makita 10.8v on Amazon

Benefits of these Makita cordless tools.

Being small and compact, these tools offer the best power-to-weight ratio. As they are small and light weight they are comfortable to hold, and are less likely to strain the hand and arm muscles, which can sometimes happen with prolonged use of power tools.

The Makita 10.8v combo is easy to carry around and small enough to fit into a jacket pocket or tool belt.

Quick change ability, so there is no need for a chuck wrench.

The Makita driver drill and the impact driver both have a bright LED light in the front of it which helps to see what you are doing. This is beneficial when working in tight locations where there is not much natural light to work with.

These Makita cordless tools are great for keeping around the house and are perfect for woodworking jobs, plumbing, and those many around the house type chores which arise.

The Makita LCT203W includes two 10.8V Ultra-Compact Lithium-Ion batteries and an ENERGY STAR rated battery charger for efficient charging power and less downtime on the job site. Having two batteries means you can have one charging while you use the other.

Comes with a metallic case into which the tools fit snuggly. There is also a pocket to carry the manual and safety glasses.

Technical Specifications of the Makita combo kit.

The Makita lithium drill is a two speed driver drill (0-350 / 0-1,300 RPM) which delivers 200 in.lbs. of Max Torque in an ultra compact size of only 1.9 lbs

The Makita impact driver drill is a variable speed driver which provides 800 in.lbs. of Max Torque in an ultra compact design of only 2.0 lbs.

Makita lithium drill

The Makita 10.8v combo is powered by lithium ion battery. These batteries have one of the best energy to weight ratios and are a popular choice in many portable, electrically powered devices. They tend to hold their charge longer as this type of battery discharges slowly.

Battery Life

For the technically minded the Makita 10.8v combo lithium ion battery and Energy Star rated Makita charger produces 430% total lifetime work with 2.5X more cycles.

The LCT203W is one of a range of Makita kits.

How Much Should You Exoect To Pay?

At the time of writing, the Makita LCT203W is selling for well under $200, and Amazon has the best price.

What’s Included?

Makita Driver Drill

Makita Impact Driver

Two 10.8V Lithium-Ion batteries

Battery charger

Tool case

Does It Include A Warranty?

Every Makita Lithium-Ion tool is backed by Makita’s 3-Year Warranty that covers repair due to defects in materials or workmanship up to three years from the date of original purchase. Makita Lithium-Ion batteries and chargers have a limited 1-Year Warranty.

What Others Are Saying

The Makita 10.8v is a popular and reliable cordless power tool, so not surprisingly it has a rating of 4.5 stars out 5 on the Amazon marketplace.

This is what a selection of customers who have bought the Makita 10.8v LCT203W are saying:

“Impressive power and performance”

“Great Compact Pair of Tools”

“Good little set!”

“Makita’s dynamic duo”

“Fantastic For the Size”

“Best tool purchase in years”

“Best Tool Ive ever purchased”

“Perfect for wide range of use”

Where Can I Read More Reviews of the Makita 10.8-Volt LCT203W Compact Lithium-Ion Two-Piece Combo Kit?

Amazon is the best place to read these from the customers who have bought and used the Makita 10.8v. Click here to read them.

How To Choose A Jigsaw

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There is no doubting the jigsaw is a versatile tool in the DIY tool kit. You can use it to cut shapes in different materials. All you need do is fit the correct jigsaw blade. The technology of the power jigsaw has advanced over the years and there is a good choice of jigsaws, both corded and cordless models, available to the consumer. But how do you choose a jigsaw? Here is an outline of the key features to look for.

Faced with the prospect of choosing a corded versus a cordless jigsaw, I would go with the corded models. They deliver more power, which means you get the job done quicker. Typically the corded jigsaw has a motor between 3.5 to 6 amps. The more powerful the motor the thicker the material it can cut through. That’s not to dismiss the cordless models, though not so powerful, they come into their own where space is limited, and you are cutting through thinner materials.

A variable speed jigsaw allows the user to adjust the speed according to the demands of the job, and allows for better control. Jigsaws typically have speeds ranging between 500 to 3,100 strokes per minute.

An orbital action jigsaw is an advantage as the combined side to side and up and down motion make for more speedy cutting. The benefits of the orbital action jigsaw also include a smoother cut, and less wear and tear on the jigsaw blades.

A jigsaw with a footplate angle adjustment allows angle cuts up to 45% in either direction.

A chip blower helps to keep the cutting line clear of chips.

When it comes to changing jigsaw blades, a one touch, tool-less blade changing system has definite advantages. It speeds up the job, saves time, and there is no need to touch hot blades. The Bosch reciprocating saw has this one-touch technology which also enables you to change blades with one hand.

Look for a model which cuts straight. Blade wander is a problem with jigsaws, but some models such as the Bosch 1590evsk have advanced features to counteract this tendency.

Choose a jigsaw which feels good when you hold it. The two grip types are barrel and top handle.

There is nothing like the reviews of others who have bought and used the model of jigsaw you are interested in. You can typically find these customer reviews on shopping sites such as Amazon.

To read my review of the Bosch jig saw click the link.

My Review Of The Bosch 1590EVSK 6.4 Amp Top Handle Jigsaw

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Photo of Bosch 1590evsk Jigsaw The Bosch reciprocating saw is one of the most versatile power tools for the DIY’er, and I wanted to buy a friend one as a present. My own isn’t exactly new, and so I thought I would upgrade my jigsaw at the same time, by using the research for my own benefit as well. I wanted something that would make my life easier. At the same time the jigsaw would be a pleasure to use, so as to encourage me to use it more. I chose the Bosch 1590EVSK 6.4 Amp Top Handle Jigsaw, and this is my review.

What To Look For In A Jigsaw

Choose an orbital action jigsaw, one that feels comfortable to hold, and with an easy blade changing system. An orbital action jigsaw moves the blades from side to side and angles the blade slightly forward into the stock on the up swing. These jigsaws are better because the blades cut faster, give a smoother cut, which can lessen wear on the jigsaw blades. The Bosch 1590EVSK is an orbital action jigsaw.

Corded Or Cordless Jigsaw?

Corded jigsaws are better because of the greater power needed for cutting through metal or hardwood. Cordless jigsaws are undoubtedly better in tight spaces, but they are limited by the available cutting time, and are probably better suited to softer woods only. If I had not researched that I would probably have bought a cordless jigsaw and perhaps regretted it later. The Bosch 1590EVSK is a corded jigsaw.

Keeping The Bosch Jigsaw Straight

In straightforward language you want the jigsaw blade to cut in a straight line. Every feature the jigsaw can offer the user to achieve that aim is to be welcomed. This is important because you need to know how the manufacturer handles this problem of the jigsaw not cutting straight, as you don’t normally get to try a jigsaw before you buy. The Bosch 1590EVSK has a Precision Control System that eliminates blade wander for precise cuts.

Accumulating dust can also make it hard to keep a straight cut. The Bosch 1590EVSK adjustable dust blower keeps the cutting line clear.

Quick Change Bosch Jigsaw Blades To Finish The Job Faster

Choose a jigsaw which enables you to change the blades quickly. The Bosch1590 uses One-Touch blade technology which allows the blades to be changed rapidly, and with one hand.

Turn On The Power!

The more power a jigsaw has the easier it cuts through thicker materials. The Bosch jig saw has a 6.4 Amp motor which will do the job faster. Look for a jigsaw that has the facility to maintain a constant speed through the entire cut. The Bosch jig saw has this feature.

Variable Speed Jigsaw

Using a variable speed jigsaw allows you to slow the motor down when making more intricate cuts. The Bosch 1590EVSK has this facility. A variable speed jigsaw offers better control, allowing you to preset the sawing speed depending on the material you are cutting.

Anti Splinter Insert

One of my biggest worries when using a jigsaw is that I might cause the wood to splinter. The Bosch 1590EVSK comes with an anti splinter insert to minimize this risk. All you do is place the insert in the blade opening of the footplate. It can be placed in two positions in the footplate, one is for narrow jigsaw blades the other is for wide ones.

How Much Would You Expect To Pay?

The cheapest price for the Bosch 1590EVSK 6.4 Amp Top Handle Jigsaw is currently on Amazon.

What’s Included?

Bosch 1590EVSK 6.4 Amp Top Handle Jigsaw

Precision wood blade (T144DP)

Progressor metal blade (T123X)

Tight kerf blade (T244D)

Zero-clearance insert

Non-marring footplate

Carrying case

Is There A Warranty?

Yes, the Bosch 1590EVSK 6.4 Amp Top Handle Jigsaw has a one-year warranty, 30-day money back guarantee, and one-year service protection plan.

What Others Are Saying

“very smooth jigsaw”

“Great Jig Saw”

“even an amateur can use this saw with pleasure, confidence”

“This thing is great!”

“Best ever!”

“Super high-quality Jigsaw”

“awesome awesome tool”

“Great jigsaw for DIY’er”

Where Can You Buy The Bosch 1590EVSK 6.4 Amp Top Handle Jigsaw?

Currently the best deal is on Amazon, and this product also qualifies for the FREE shipping option. Click here to view the item on Amazon.

Where Can You Read More Reviews Of The Bosch 1590EVSK 6.4 Amp Top Handle Jigsaw?

The best place to read reviews is Amazon, from the customers who have bought and used this product. Click here to read more.

How To Build A Shed – On Sloping Ground

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Planning to build a shed on level ground sounds straightforward enough, and how to do this is well documented by standard DIY shed plans. But what if you do not have the luxury of enough flat land to build your shed? That might mean you have to build the shed into the side of sloping land, and that needs a bit more planning and expertise.


You would need to assess the nature of the land you want to build on. Is it loose soil, or are there trees in the land near where you want to build the shed? If there are, and depending how mature the trees are, it means there are likely to be tree roots which will need to be removed. You would need an excavator to clear the land anyway, and it is just one more level of preparation you will need to undertake.

It depends on the angle of the slope you are building into as well. Once you have cleared the site, you would need to remove any danger of the earth slipping back on to the shed, and causing damage. That might mean building a retaining wall of some kind. I would definitely think about having concrete foundations for this structure.

To get some more ideas, I would ask a builder to come and look at the sight, with a view to giving you a free quotation. Even if you do not intend to commit to have him build the shed for you, he will give you an expert opinion on what needs to be done, and that’s all you really need to know. He will also advise you on the materials and supports needed to ensure you have a solid and safe construction.

Should You Build Your Own Shed By Yourself?

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Many people like the idea of building their own shed, or putting one together by following some plans that came with a shed kit perhaps. But, then they question whether they have the basic skills needed to get the job done. It is as if the idea looked good in the brochure, or on the website you recently visited, then the reality hits home when the delivery arrives on your doorstep. Can I do this, you ask yourself.

Only you know the answer to the question, and if you have never done a project like this before you will never know unless you try. You can help yourself by giving yourself as much chance of success as you can. Planning and preparation is key when it comes to building your own shed.

Failure is the probable result if the project is badly thought out, and you do not buy the right materials. You can always pay someone to put it right of course, but that is not the priority.

How can you give yourself the best chance of successfully building your own shed? By following some good step by step DIY shed plans for a start. Then I would ask a knowledgeable friend to help you. Preferably someone who either does this for a living, or someone who has already built a shed, and knows what is involved. They will likely have all the tools and know how you need as well.

The ideal scenario is to work with someone who has advanced DIY skills. You can learn a lot in a short space of time by doing this, and it beats trying to learn from books and the internet.

My advice is to think the project through before making the commitment to build your own shed. Try to find out what is involved first. By doing some basic research, and talking to the people who actually sell these products, and those who have bought them ,if possible, you can come to a sensible decision, and perhaps save yourself some time and money as well.

Building A Shed With No Previous Experience

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It is very tempting to build your own shed, even if you have had no previous experience. The mere fact that you have built a shed yourself though, will give your confidence a tremendous boost, and you will be the envy of all your friends. Just think, you will be able to look at the shed you built yourself, for years to come, and you will be able to take a lot of pride in what you have accomplished by using your skills.

People want to build a shed themselves for different reasons. Some do it for the satisfaction alone, and this is a great reason. Others do it to save money, or because they want to stamp their own personality on the project.

You will never know if you can build a shed by yourself unless you give it a try. You do not have to spend much money on timber, as you can build a shed from pallets or scrap wood if you want to. Some would argue that commercially produced wood is not that good quality anyway. If you believe that, you really have nothing to lose, and you could end up with a solid structure by using pallets.

I myself prefer wooden sheds, and if you decide to build one yourself I would make sure that the wooden floor is raised above the ground. This will help preserve the shed for many years to come and help protect it against rotting due to damp or wet conditions. Another thing I would do is make the walls as secure as possible so as to withstand wind damage. The best way to protect it is to use plenty of cross struts to stop this from happening and help make the structure tight as well.

If you want to save some money, you do not need to have a fancy roof. You could construct a sloping roof and cover it with some water proof material.

This is enough to get the shed built, and although you might not have the most elegant looking shed in the world, you will have the satisfaction of having built it all by yourself. Building a shed is not that difficult, if you put your mind to it.

Build A Storage Shed – Building A Storage Shed For Yourself

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If you want to build a storage shed for yourself, but do not know where to start, then I understand. Most people would think building a storage shed should be fairly straightforward, because the construction looks uncomplicated.

The key to success with this project, is having a clear and understandable set of DIY shed plans to follow. They do make the difference, between a frustrating experience, and one where the project stands the best chance of success with the least amount stress.

Building a storage shed needs preparation. Start by asking yourself how big you want the shed to be, and where you want to site the storage shed. Ideally, it is best to site the shed on a flat, dry surface, in an area where there is good all round ventilation, and preferably away from trees.

My shed is located under a very tall tree growing in my neighbour’s garden. It has pine needles which drop on to my shed every so often and make a mess. There is also the risk of branches falling on my shed, due to wind damage.

Once you have decided on the size your shed is to be, I would sketch it out on some paper, or have someone else do it for you. These drawings should be to scale, so you can take them with you to the lumber yard to buy the required quantity of timber needed to build the shed.

Ground preparation is important, and you should seek advice about whether or not your storage shed will need foundations. Draw up a list of tools you think you might need to complete the project, and check they are in good condition. You will also need safety gloves and a pair of goggles. If you have young children, be sure to keep dangerous tools and potentially harmful preservatives and chemical products out of their reach.

If you have never tackled a job of this scale on your own before, ask a friend in the trade to help. Or you could choose someone who has advanced woodworking skills. You can gain valuable woodworking skills just by working alongside an experienced tradesman. There are few better ways of furthering your woodworking skills than watching those who know what they are doing.

Be sure to make enquiries with your local planning office to see if you need their permission to build a storage shed. If necessary, you can photocopy the set of plans you drew up already, and pass a copy on to them for inspection.

Finally, success depends on the measurements and plans you have drawn up. If your measurements are correct, and you have bought the correct materials for the job, you should not have any problems.

Small Shed Plans – Using A Good Set Of DIY Shed Plans

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My problem is lack of outside storage space for the kind of equipment my wife will not let me keep inside our house. You know the kind of thing I mean. Electric drills, lawnmower, folding workbench, hammers, saws and various other woodworking equipment.

Us fellas like to keep those boxes of screws and hinges, and as they mount up, we need somewhere to store them. You never know when you might need something in those jars and boxes for the next woodworking project.

Inevitably, and for the sake of peace in the family household, we had to reach a compromise. So me and my wife decided on some small shed plans, as being the best solution. The kids could have some input as well, so that meant everyone would be part of the project.

I already had a small storage shed, but know one knows how old it is, and is in a sorry state of decay. We inherited it when we bought the house, and the plain fact is, it just is too small to store all my stuff anyway. I could have gone to the hardware store and purchased a shed kit which I only needed to put together with a few tools. The design of this particular product was not quite what I was looking for, so I decided to build my own shed, using my own set of DIY shed plans.

I could not have built this shed without a clear set of small shed plans to walk me through each step. Believe me, they make all the difference to a successful outcome in a DIY project of this kind.

I sat down with my wife and we thought about how big we wanted the small shed to be. Then we drew up a design of our own, on paper, to envisage what the finished shed would look like. This did help us to decide on the design we wanted, which we thought would look good in our location. It gave us a focus for the project as well.

When you get this far in the project, it is down to those small shed plans, and a good set of blueprints to work from. We were all pleased with the shed when it was finished and it gave each of us a great thrill to know that we had built the shed by ourselves. It was all our own work, and a great team effort.

Shed Plans DIY – Lean To Shed

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The DIY lean to shed is a popular choice for the do it yourself enthusiast. Lean to’s are a practical and affordable solution to your storage needs, where there is sufficient yard space. Whether you want to store garden equipment, barbecue, garden furniture or household furniture, the lean to shed is a good storage solution.

If you decide to go the self build route, you will discover the project is cost effective, and you can make it a family endeavour by involving each member of the family. Little ones could have a go with a paint brush when it comes to treating the timber, properly supervised of course. Or perhaps you can find them another job.

Lean to sheds typically have three walls, the fourth side butts up to an existing wall, such as your home, or possibly another outbuilding. They are usually built from wood or metal. The choice of material for the job can be decided by how solid and durable you want the construction to be and how it will look when it is finished. Some combinations might look a bit out of place, such as metal up against brickwork.

When deciding on the size of the DIY lean to shed I typically work on the size of the largest item I want to store and base my calculations on that. One of the advantages of building your own lean to shed is that you have complete control over the design. This is especially useful to know when it comes to deciding how wide you want your lean to shed to be. The ready made ones are a bit narrow for my needs.

Once you have some idea how big you want the lean to, its time to sketch it out on some paper, take measurements and take them with you to the lumber yard. You can buy the timber pre treated or you can treat it yourself.

Make sure you have an accurate set of DIY shed plans to work from, and make sure you understand them. If there is anything on them you do not understand, it could mean problems once the project has begun. In my opinion, a good set of DIY shed plans makes the difference between success and failure to a project of this kind. Nothing is more frustrating than trying to comprehend blueprints which are open to more than one interpretation.

Lean to sheds are not complex designs, and putting one of these together can be done over a couple of weekends.

Build An Outdoor Shed – Outdoor Storage Shed 10 x 8

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Once you have made the decision to build an outdoor storage shed, the next step is to locate a set of step by step, easy to understand DIY plans to walk you through the build. I don’t know about you, but blueprints have to be easy for me. I have seen some DIY plans which I know are way too hard for me to understand. My motto with self build shed plans is go simple.

I don’t have advanced woodworking skills, but I can follow step by step plans. That is what motivates me to build my own woodworking projects. If I did not have access to these types of plan, I could not do the job by myself. Simple as that. There is no doubt the easiest option to build an outdoor shed is to buy a kit with the wood pre cut. All you have to do is to put it together. And, it won’t take up too much of your time.

I was recently looking for outdoor storage shed kits on Amazon and I found one I liked selling for around $400. The only problem is, the dimensions are too small for my particular storage needs, and the shed is made of polythene. My choice for a shed is wood. Because the dimensions of this particular shed are a bit on the small side I looked at building something at least 10 x 8 in wood, and even that size might be too small for me.

Some of my friends have vinyl sheds and say they are pleased with them. The only reservation I have with an outdoor shed made of vinyl is the possibility it might get blown over. They have to be anchored down to stop this happening. There is also the possibility of wind damage.

You can build an outdoor storage shed in metal if you prefer. I don’t know much about the outdoor metal sheds, but it is best to check the quality of the materials you choose for the shed before you commit. You want a few years wear out of the shed, at the least. Wood, too, tends to be not as solid as it used to be, and is therefore lighter in weight. That said, as long as you treat it correctly and maintain it, then it should serve you well.

If you decide to go the self build route to an outdoor storage shed, the first thing I would do is check to see if you need permission from your local authority to build one. They will want to know details of the proposed size of construction, and where it is to be situated.  If you do need permission they will let you know what happens next.

Ideally you need to build the shed on a flat surface. If you need foundations, be sure you have the right foundations for your size of shed. If the area you have chosen to build on is prone to surface water flooding you will need to raise the shed floor and the quality of the foundations will need to reflect this.

The rest of the outdoor storage shed construction will depend on the design you have chosen. I would definitely select a design which is pleasing to the eye, and which adds to the overall look of your property. I suspect you will soon fall out with a shed which is ugly and stands out for all the wrong reasons.

Garden Shed Plans

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Plans for a garden shed can be had in lots of places, including online and the major DIY stores. There is no shortage of garden shed plans. That said, the key to building the garden shed of your dreams is matching the right garden shed plans to your own individual specifications. They should be exact and easy to understand.

The design and look of your garden shed will depend on what your purpose is in having a garden shed. You need to go through some thought processes to be clear what the finished project will look like. That means taking the time to make some notes on what you want to see happen.

Start by asking yourself some relevant questions. How big is the garden shed going to be? This is an important question, and from my own experience, whatever size you decide on, I would build a little larger than you plan for.

Decide on the best location for the shed. Close to the main dwelling, and on level ground if possible. Situating the garden shed close to the main residence is better for security, because it will be less remote.

Do you want to keep garden equipment in the shed? Or perhaps you want to store larger items of furniture, if you have a surplus of household items for instance. Deciding what you want to store in your garden shed, will determine the size and quality of the finished construction. You do not want good items of furniture to be ruined by rain dripping on them. The cost goes up when you factor in the price of weather proofing and insulating materials.

Most people choose a shed made of wood. But there are other options available, such as vinyl and metal. Wood tends to need more maintenance over time, while metal and vinyl will need less looking after.

Flat roof or arched? The cost of an arched roof is likely to be more expensive, though it does look more attractive, in my opinion.

Give some thought to windows, doors and shelving. Removable shelving is useful, as you can add or remove it easily, and shelving greatly increases the storage space.

Decide on a budget before you make any plans. That said, the budget does need to be realistic, so try and get an estimate from a reputable tradesman or qualified friend before deciding on a ball park figure to work with.

Consider whether you will need foundations. If so, of what type will they be. There are lots of variables which come into play, as all constructions have different environmental conditions in the immediate area. Is the ground level, and well drained? Is there enough natural light in the proposed location? Is it in an exposed or sheltered spot? There are many decisions to be made which depend on the answers to these questions.

All this might sound complex and off putting. But it should not. These are all common sense questions. If you do not feel able to work through them by yourself, ask a skilled friend or tradesman to help you. It will be worth it.

Once you have decided on the size and materials for your garden shed, all that remains is to get yourself a good set of garden shed plans.