Do I need to use 16" centers for my studs in an 8' x 10' storage shed?

Question

There is no building code in my area for sheds under 100 sq ft.

Would 24" centers work?

Answer 1

yes if i woz doin dis work i wud use 16" centres it will provide alot more strenght dan 24"centres  

Answer 2

No, you absolutely do not need to build on 16"s for a shed.  2x4s on 24"s are structurally sufficient to pass code on one story residential construction in most areas.

30% of all wood framing in residential construction is structural overkill or is there for another purpose.  

although 2x4's provide all the structural support you need for most single story residential construction, 2x6s are used because it allows more space for insulation.  2x6's are also less sussceptible to crowning than 2x4s.  16' centers also tend to produce a more uniform wall surface w/ fewer bulges.

So, you will be just fine building on 24"s if you so chose.  If you plan on hanging heavy items from the walls in lots of places, you may want to go ahead and build on 16's to provide extra support for hangers.

Finally, Big Mustache is mistaken about the perimeter walls supporting the roof.  If you build a standard roof (2 gable ends and 2 eave ends) the roof is supported almost entirely by the eave ends.

Answer 3

yes

Answer 4

I would use 16".  Even if code does not include a building as small as you are building, they were put in place for a reason, so the houses wouldn't fall down.  Don't go cheap just because there is no code.  You don't want to have to fix it later.  

Answer 5

24 on center is possible but it's not a good idea. I always go with 16 inches on center.

Answer 6

Yes you can use studs on 24" centers - but use a thicker siding at least 1/2". Run your rafters right above your studs, and use 5/8" thick o.s.b for the roof decking. You need to know that even if you prefer using 16" centers - you are not going to need that many more studs to do this.So it's your choice.

Answer 7

The perimeter walls of the shed are load bearing walls as they support the roof.  Load bearing walls should be 16" OC regardless of the size of the building.  Besides, it would only require ten additional studs to go from 24" OC to 16", is your budget that tight?

Answer 8

Yes, an 8x10 is a small shed, 24 centers is all you need, they are supporting very little weight.