5 years with my 8 x 12 gambrel style shed

[Middleagedspread]

It's been 5 years since I downloaded Phil's gambrel style barn plans and instructions, and built myself this 8 x 12 shed. I found his instructions to be excellent, and built it alone without any problems. I used rope and tackle to lift the gambrel ends into place, thanks to a conveniently placed tree!

I've made a couple of alterations to it, over time. For example, when I built it I put windows in both gambrel ends, but I replaced one of the windows with a door and put a ladder outside so the kids have an escape route



On the inside I used hardboard and pegboard as internal walls over the studs, and I ripped 12" wide 1/4" ply 'planks' to cover the floor, giving it a solid wood floor look.



I put in a wide window and outside wooden shutters to keep out the hot sun in the summer:



And a hinged, folding ladder that sits against the wall when not being used, to save space:



the upstairs remains a work in progress

 

[Phil the shed man]

Wow. I like the way you finished the loft with the individual boards. I also like the folding ladder. Do you mind if I steal your idea and write a post about? It's a great way to have a permenant ladder all the time but still be able to fold it out of the way.

 

[Middleagedspread]

Please do. I got inspiration for the ladder from Roy Underhill but didn't have his level of skill, so I used hinges. But it took me a couple of attempts to make it safe and workable: the hinges needed bolts rather than screws to ensure the screws didn't just rip out of the steps when I placed my weight on them (hinges on one side have to be above the step), and then I had to recess the bolts to ensure didn't snag the sides of the ladder as it is closed:





I also had to cut down the moving rail so it didn't snag the roof when folded, without making it too short to lean on the joist when it is down:

 

[Phil the shed man]

I followed the links and yours looks the easiest to build. The one built in the link you provided would take some real woodworking skills. Thanks for the detailed photos.

 

[alumni80]

View attachment 483

It's been 5 years since I downloaded Phil's gambrel style barn plans and instructions, and built myself this 8 x 12 shed. I found his instructions to be excellent, and built it alone without any problems. I used rope and tackle to lift the gambrel ends into place, thanks to a conveniently placed tree!

I've made a couple of alterations to it, over time. For example, when I built it I put windows in both gambrel ends, but I replaced one of the windows with a door and put a ladder outside so the kids have an escape route

View attachment 488

On the inside I used hardboard and pegboard as internal walls over the studs, and I ripped 12" wide 1/4" ply 'planks' to cover the floor, giving it a solid wood floor look.

View attachment 487

I put in a wide window and outside wooden shutters to keep out the hot sun in the summer:

View attachment 482

And a hinged, folding ladder that sits against the wall when not being used, to save space:

View attachment 484

the upstairs remains a work in progress

View attachment 486

I'm brand new here but just wanted to say I love everything about your shed. Makes me want to be a kid again, lol. Such a great idea with that ladder, btw.

 

[Middleagedspread]

I'm brand new here but just wanted to say I love everything about your shed. Makes me want to be a kid again, lol. Such a great idea with that ladder, btw.

I’ll be honest, this dad gets way more fun out of the shed than the kids do