If you want to use a shed for more than just storage you will want to include electricity in the shed plans. Working with electricity can be dangerous so be aware of what is safe (https://sheddrafts.com/10x20-gable-garden-storage-shed-plans-blueprints) and practical. Easy and especially safe cables to use when running electricity are steel wired cables or SWA. Running the SWA cable below ground is the preferred option as it will hide ugly wires. Choosing to bury your wiring requires that you place it a minimum of 3 feet underground. If you need some power but don’t want to mess with a lot of wires you can use solar panels instead. To operate typical workshop tools you will need plenty of direct sunlight hitting your solar panel during the day. To install a solar panel simply use a mounting kit that is available in any home center. Once the panel has been mounted you can drill holes in your shed for the cable. Wind turbines can also be a useful source of power for any shed when there is less solar power available.
Constructing a roof out of wooden shingles makes financial sense for small sized outhouses. Cedar shingles have great life spans of 30 to 50 years. Next attach a thick piece of constructing felt over the roof structure with staples and cut any excess away. To install shingles simply follow the pattern according to your garden shed schematics. The easiest way to fasted the shingles to the frame is to use a nail gun. If you get really into it you could even use tar to fasten the shingles. Once the shingles go past the edge of the roof it will be time to cut them back. You will need to cap the top of your outbuilding by bending and overlapping the shingles. This method yields the most durable and long lasting roof. The thicker shingles work best in high winds and last the longest.
Condensation in your shed can reduce the length of time your structure lasts. Excess moisture can also corrode hinges and blister your shed’s (6 x 10 saltbox shed making schematics) paint. When the garden outbuilding drawings allow for proper air circulation around the outbuilding you can prevent decay and growth of fungus. A great way to stop water from ruining your outhouse is to build it at least half a foot above the earth. Air will have plenty of space under the outhouse to dry condensation and save the floor. There should be a minimum of 3 feet of open space around the four sides of your outbuilding. Proper space around your shed will give any wind the opportunity to help keep the outbuilding dry. Mildew and mold hate the sun so be sure to expose it to direct sunlight. An added bonus of allowing space around your outhouse is that it will be easier to access to fix or make any changes. You can further encourage the movement of air by using fans.
You may need to pay a little extra for outhouse materials that require minimal upkeep but they will save you time and trouble later on. We recommend using panels of PVC trim in whatever color called for in your patio shed building plans. Many people love using PVC trim boards because they are impervious to bugs and warping. Use high performance aluminum for your windows which will never swell or warp over time. Aluminum is another great choice because over the life of the outbuilding you will save money while achieving excellent energy outcomes. Out of all metal choices aluminum is the most recycled and is an environmentally responsible choice. Faux-slate roof shingles are made from combinations of plastic and rubber. Synthetic slate shingles are a great choice to use for your roof instead of real slate. Real slate comes at a high cost in terms of production and installation whereas synthetic slate does not. Safety is built-in with synthetic slate because they contain impact modifiers to help withstand storm damage.
