Building a great garden shed

The garden shed is a quintessential Aussie backyard installation, so of course it's going to be a weekend DIY project for most of us.

Sheds can range in size from tiny tool storage spots through to garage-sized rooms where you could park a vehicle like a digger. While we can't exactly lay out the plans for a massive garage, we can help you out with building a smaller shed that fits nicely into the backyard.

Starting off: The foundation

Concrete is the aim of the game when it comes to a shed foundation, as it provides the strongest surface from which to construct your masterpiece. After you've staked out the four corners of your shed and poured in crushed rock for a base, pour in concrete. Level this off, and then add concrete blocks for support, glueing them together. Finish this step by adding more crushed rock around the blocks.

• Tip: You may want to use a concrete grinder to level the surfaces, prior to adding the concrete blocks.

Constructing the floor

Once you've added the concrete blocks, it's time to build the floor. Lumber is the best material for the job here, and when you're putting in the framing ensure that every surface is level. Continue to add joists to support the floor, and use galvanised nails to keep everything in place.

Plywood is a great choice for the floor, and again use galvanised nails to keep everything secure.

• Tip: If you've used a material other than plywood for the floor, you may want to consider floor sanding to keep everything smooth.

Moving onto the walls

Next up are the walls, and it's a good idea to build these on the ground prior to standing them up. Once you've assembled the framework of the wall using the studs and galvanised nails (don't forget space for the door), add vertical plywood siding to keep out the elements.

If you're putting in a window, remember to leave the appropriate amount of space and account for this when putting in the studs. Raise the walls and nail them together at each corner.

• Tip: It could be a good idea to enlist the help of a mate when putting up the walls, and the roof, as these are going to be some of the heavier sections.

Installing a door and window

You can't forget the door! Use siding and attach the pieces together using crosspieces. Then, add the hinges to the frame and attach the door to the shed.

The window comes next, and vinyl is often a good choice. These can usually be secured in place with nails.

Adding the roof

When building the roof trusses, it's a good idea to build these on the ground before you load them up onto the roof. Once you've assembled the appropriate number, put them up onto the roof and install them with braces. Then, install siding over these trusses using plywood.

Lastly, cover the roof with a roofing felt as well as a roofing shingle of your choice. Asphalt is often a good option.

• Tip: Leaving a slight gap on each side of the roof peak is a great way to let hot air escape during the warmer months.

Finishing up

Once your shed is looking like a million dollars, you'll probably want to think about giving it a coat of paint. Depending on the colour, paint can be a good way to keep out excess heat and ensure the shed stands up to the elements.

We'll leave you with one last word of warning. Keep your neighbours away after you've finished, as they're sure to want your help building a shed of their own!