As the name suggests, a lean-to shed is an unobtrusive structure that is basically propped against one side of the house and using it to add storage space at a low cost.
This type of shed is used as storage for logs, machines or any other items to protect them from rain and is typically built with planks or logs.
The tasks of building it may seem simple but you really need a few days to spare so you can successfully build one that is functional and long-lasting.
If you are planning to construct this type of shed but feel you don't have enough experience or the time to do it yourself, you can purchase quality shed plans, hire a contractor or buy a pre-constructed shed.
Against The Wall or Free-Standing? There are two common types of lean-to sheds.
The most typical is the one that leans to another structure, such as your house or another wall and there also a free-standing type that has three sides and a sloping roof.
For lean-to sheds that stand against a wall of another structure, pressure-treated skids are typically used for its foundation.
The walls (or siding material) are typically made of plywood, and the roof slopes so rainwater can easily slide off, protecting the items under it.
Building free-standing lean-to sheds takes a bit more effort.
You may need a concrete foundation for this type of shed, and the walls should be protected with T-111 siding instead of just plywood.
Get Shed Plans Before Starting Construction Before you start hammering away you need a good set of shed plans that include step-by-step instructions, diagrams and dimensions and a list of materials.
To decide on the size for your lean-to shed, take into consideration all the items that you plan to put inside of it, from the largest to the smallest.
There are lean-to shed plans available on the internet at different price ranges.
However, if you want construction to go according to plan you should rely on free plans to do the job.
Moreover, if you don't have the time or the required expertise in building lean-to sheds, you can always buy a kit or one that is pre-made shed.
Lean-To Shed Materials Organize all the materials needed before you start working.
The framing for your lean-to shed is commonly done using lumber as this type of wood is very durable and relatively cheap.
For the foundation, you need to use either pressure-treated skids or concrete piers depending on the type you would like to build.
You are also going to need metal studs, composite siding and shingle roofing.
Make a checklist of all other materials before you buy them.
These materials can be bought at your nearest home improvement center.
Building Lean-To Sheds If you are going to build a lean-to shed you need to take into consideration the storage space you need before you build it.
Usually, they come in 6' long and 3-4' wide, which is advisable if you're only storing a few items or tools.
Lean-to sheds of this size can cost you a couple of hundred dollars.
You can also opt for a free-standing shed, which is about 6' long and 8' wide and cost more than a thousand bucks.
This size is ideal for storing large items such as garden machines and other bulky equipment.
If you like to do things yourself then building a lean-to shed may be right for you.
Remember that you will be investing time and energy during the construction phase but will reap the rewards at the end.
If you factor in convenience, time, and cost, building a lean-to shed yourself will be more economical than building any other type of shed.