How to assemble potting sheds

This article is a guide to building potting sheds. It describes many methods and alternatives that you could use, for example building one yourself or buying a pre-made potting shed also called shed kits. You could also consider the idea of log sheds. A potting shed is traditionally used for potting up seedlings and planting seeds.

Choosing the right shed

When choosing the right shed for you, consider the size that you want or need and one that can fit into your garden. Think about the colour and style that fits your garden theme. You might want in-built shelves or a floor. Therefore, consider this into your choice.

Tools that you might need

Hinges Various different lengths of wood in the style you want Naills Hammer Roofing felt and underlay Wood for the roof or corrugated plastic or similar material Door Sandpaper Saw Drill Screws Screwdriver Varnish Wood-stain

Building the shed

You need to decide the size of the shed and what type of wood to use. Once you have made these decisions, you can draw a plan of the shed and measure out how much wood you will require. If you visit your local timber merchants with the measurements, they will be able to cut the wood for you. You will need treated wood for outdoor purposes.

Making sure that the shed will last

To ensure that the potting shed withstands the weather, you need to make sure that it is properly treated with external wood-stain. Wood-stain can be purchased in a variety of colours and finishes such as matt and gloss. This process can be repeated every few years by sanding down the shed and re-staining it. You also need to make sure that the roof is watertight. You can make the roof from pieces of wood but you will need to make sure that you use roofing felt underneath these so that the water does not get in and ruin the plants. You will need lengths of baton to put across the top of the shed and the felt will be attached to this. It is secured with nails. The top of the roof is then laid across the felt and secured down with nails or screws. This wood also needs to be treated to ensure it is waterproof. You could choose to use only roofing felt on its own if you do not want to use anything else.

Buying a pre-made shed

Pre-made sheds can be made from a variety of materials and can be bought from specialist stores and DIY superstores such as Wickes, B & Q and Homebase. You can buy wood sheds or sheds made from durable plastic. If you are looking for cheap sheds, then search on the local paper or on ebay.