How to build wooden garage outbuildings

Wooden garages will fit in with any traditional home and there are plenty you can choose from. Here are a few steps to follow that will hopefully make the building of your wooden outbuilding run smoothly.

Level of difficulty

Level 1 – Beginner

What you need

  • Garage kit
  • Concrete for foundation base
  • Power drill
  • Screwdriver
  • Screws
  • Spirit level
  • Trowel
  • Hammer saw
  • Cement

The steps to follow

Note:
You can buy a modular garage kit from your local DIY shop. The kit will usually include panels for the garage walls, a door and door frame, and a roof. Make sure that you refer to planning permission and the applicable Building Regulations for outbuildings before starting on this project.

  1. If necessary, before you start building, create a sturdy concrete foundation for the garage.
  2. Next, mark the base of the garage on the concrete foundation according to the dimensions set out in the garage kit. Lay the battens out on the marked section.  Saw enough battens to cover the marked foundation area.
  3. Apply cement at the bottom of the battens and secure it to the ground with screws.
  4. Start by assembling the back corner of the garage. Prop the two walls at right angles and skew-nail them.
  5. Next assemble the other wall panels and secure them to the ground with nails.
  6. Prop the walls up and stabilise them on the ground. Skew-nail the walls onto the battens.
  7. Follow your manufacturers' instructions on installing the garage doors.
  8. Measure and mark on the top plate of the wall the location where you plan to nail metal rafter ties. Leave an interval of about 40 cm (16 in) between each metal rafter tie.
  9. With someone helping you, position the roof on the top plate and secure it to the metal rafter tie. Secure the roof by skew-nailing it to the top plate edges. Apply cement between the connecting edges of the roof and the wall.
  10. When you've erected your garage, paint it with a coat of primer before applying any colour.

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