DIY Supermarket

Garden sheds are usually delivered as a pile of wood panels and pieces of timber that you have to assemble yourself. Although it may seem like a straightforward job, things can go wrong unless you follow these golden rules:

First, get the position of the shed right by measuring it out on the ground, taking into account the position of the door and which way it opens. Consider how you will access it and how it affects garden views.

The base really does have to be totally flat because even small differences can result in distortion and a shed that doesn’t fit together properly. Experts also advise that the base should be 25mm smaller than the floor of the shed, on all sides, to enable drainage.

Building a shed is one job that you really cannot do on your own. Help is needed at various stages, from holding up large heavy panels whilst you screw them into position, to lifting up the roof sections.

Make sure you have a good quality electric drill with screwdriver attachments. If you try to do everything by hand or to use an underpowered drill, you won’t be able to drive the screws home. Also make sure your drill is fully charged before you start.

Garden sheds usually come with all the nails, screws and tacks you require to do the job, plus instructions. Check that you are not missing any components and that you fully understand the instructions before you start.