Question 1

How much material do I need to build a shed?

Accepted Answer

A shed shell needs wall studs and plates, floor decking, wall sheathing or siding, roof sheathing, and shingles. This calculator turns your shed size and roof type into a quantity for each — for example, a 10×12 gable shed works out to about 37 studs, 5 floor sheets, 13 wall sheets, 5 roof sheets, and 5 bundles of shingles.

Question 2

How much does it cost to build a shed?

Accepted Answer

DIY shed shells run roughly $25 to $150 per square foot depending on materials and size — a 10×12 shed often lands around $1,200-$2,000 in materials. Turn on the cost estimate in Advanced settings to apply your own prices, or use the built-in defaults for a quick total. Costs climb with windows, doors, insulation, and a concrete slab.

Question 3

What size lumber and stud spacing should I use for a shed?

Accepted Answer

Most sheds frame with 2×4 studs at 16" on-center, which gives solid backing for siding and is plenty strong for shed walls. You can go to 24" on-center for a small, light storage shed to save lumber, but 16" is the safe default. Floor joists are usually 2×6 or 2×8 depending on span.

Question 4

How many shingles do I need for a shed roof?

Accepted Answer

Shingles are sold by the bundle, and 3 bundles cover one roofing square (100 sq ft). Find your roof area — footprint × slope factor for a pitched roof — then divide by 100 and multiply by 3. A 10×12 shed with a 4/12 roof needs about 5 bundles including waste.

Question 5

Should a shed have a wood floor or a concrete slab?

Accepted Answer

A wood floor (joists plus plywood/OSB decking) is faster, cheaper, and works well on level ground or skids — this calculator's floor sheets assume a wood deck. A concrete slab lasts longer, resists rot and pests, and suits heavy equipment, but costs more. Use the Concrete Calculator if you're pouring a slab instead.

Question 6

Do I need a permit to build a shed?

Accepted Answer

It depends on your local code. Many areas don't require a permit for sheds under 100-200 sq ft, but setbacks, easements, and HOA rules can still apply. Anything with electrical, plumbing, or a permanent foundation usually needs one. Always check with your local building department before you start.

Roof Type	Best For	Notes
Gable	Stand-alone backyard & storage sheds	Peaked roof, two slopes, most headroom
Lean-to	Against a house, fence, or wall	Single slope, sheds water away, simple build
Flat	Modern look, small sheds	Easiest framing; needs a slight slope to drain

Size	Footprint	Typical Use
8×10	80 sq ft	Mower, garden tools, bikes
10×12	120 sq ft	Storage + small workbench
12×16	192 sq ft	Workshop, riding mower, ATV
12×20+	240+ sq ft	Large workshop — often needs a permit

What Materials Do You Need to Build a Shed?

Shed Material Order Summary

Worked Examples

8×10 Lean-to Garden Shed

10×12 Gable Storage Shed

12×16 Gable Workshop Shed

Shed Roof Type Guide

Common Shed Sizes

Frequently Asked Questions

Related Calculators

References

Link to This Calculator