Sometimes wooden sheds lack adequate space to keep all the things you want to store in them. It is at this point that the construction of an additional room begins to make sense. Not only does it give you extra space, but it also saves you from having to incur costs when buying or building a larger shed. Here are some quick steps to create a bonus room.

Step 1: Schedule

You need to figure out the size you need. It’s always best to build a bonus room large enough to anticipate future needs so you don’t end up needing more space any time soon. In addition to space requirements, there are other things to consider.

local regulations

Find out what the regional zoning laws are and obtain the necessary permits for your construction. It is critical that you understand your region’s building code requirements to avoid legal issues.

Examine the construction site

Before you start building, you should find out if environmental hazards may occur during construction. Get a professional to inspect the property for any drainage pipes or electrical lines that he may find in the process.

plan your project

Once the site is clear and you have the legal documents in hand, you can start working on a drawing. The size of your sketch will determine the materials used and the time spent, so be sure to research this. Also, please indicate where the bonus room will be adjacent to your current lumber shed. Your roof design should be such that it can withstand weather elements like snow and rain.

The foundation

Although an extra room is usually small in size, it must have a foundation for stability purposes. Its strength affects the strength of your shed, so choose materials like cinder blocks.

Materials

There are tons of materials that you can use in construction. A good example is wood that is not only strong but also available at a reasonable price. Other options include composite siding and cement board. Based on your drawing, calculate the amount of materials you need and buy the products.

Step 2: Preliminaries

This stage is quite simple, and you can handle it without professional help.

Map the construction site

Begin by clearing any vegetation that is in the way during construction and leveling the ground. If you wish to have a dirt floor in your bonus room, you can leave the site as is. If you want to build a level, it is necessary to compact the soil. Be sure to use a flooring material that can withstand weather conditions.

digging holes

Then, using the building codes and drawing, drill holes for the support posts. Consider the load of the rafters and the weights on the roofs while digging the holes. Also, make sure the exterior wall of your bonus room runs parallel to your wood shed so that placing the studs won’t be cumbersome.

Placing the posts

Using a sledgehammer, drive the shed posts into the ground. You can use wooden stakes next to the boards to make sure the posts are straight. It is also necessary to use a plumb bob at this stage. Once the shed posts are in place, put some concrete in the holes for added support and let it set for at least twenty-four hours.

For a temporary room, you may choose to use soil to fill in the post holes. Then use a line level to help you mark a bench rise on the posts. This mark will help you determine how much load the joists can carry. Notch the top of the posts so that the support beams will rest on the notches before connecting the beams.

Place the support joist in the notches in preparation for the rafters. If you want to have straps on your shed, now is the time to attach them to the posts. Be sure to nail everything down before proceeding to the next steps.

Step 3: The roof

Your roof must be strong enough to withstand the elements, and as such, you must take great care in its construction.

Attach a support beam

Just as you did with the posts, nail a support beam into the part of the shed where the top of the beams will be. If you are attaching the wood joist to a metal building, it is prudent to use a self-drilling screw. Make sure the joist is secure as it will support the weight of the roof and structure. Next, place the joist spacing on the top and bottom joists.

laying the roof

Start by determining the angle of the roof by running a line from the top joist to the bottom joist and use this step to cut the joists. Put the joists in place and nail them to the joists before laying out the space for your lathing. Sometimes it is necessary to cut part of the existing roof so that the new roof can fit under it. If you do, remember to use metal flashing to prevent future water leaks. Now you can place your roofing material on the batten and secure it in place.

Step 4: Completion

You now have the skeleton of your structure and can now work on installing partitions in the bonus room, doors, floors and exterior walls. Pay attention to the materials you choose, as they will affect the durability of your structure. Also, be sure to clip each item in place.

Step 5: Finishes

Start by making sure the building is up to code and check for undone fixtures. Watch out for exposed metal corners and turn them to make sure they can’t cut someone walking by. You can then clean up the site, put away your tools, and clean up the room so it’s ready to move in.

Getting a bonus room is as simple as five easy steps that will leave you with the right space for entertainment, storage, and any other desired purpose. In addition, it is very cheap.