Is it cheaper to buy a kit, prefab, or build from scratch for a simple style barn/storage shed?

Question

I would be constructing it myself with whichever I choose. I would like it to be built from wood, not steel (not a steel pole barn). Which is the cheapest way to go?

Answer 1

Ben N is right on most points but he forgot to evaluate your time into the project.He was speaking as a carpenter in carpenter terms (I'm one too) as far as purchasing materials to avoid the big mark up....and he is right about the pride of ownership. It does depend on on your skill level and how nice a shed you wish to end up with though. If you have a low skill level  it may take you many weekends to finish it and you may end up with a leaky roof a door that doesn't quite catch and panit on your windows. It may frustrate you to the point you wish you'd just spent the extra money and bought one to avoid the ineviatble..."honey that doesn't look right". Again if your fairly competent with your hands then go for it.....just don't forget about the time and effort it will take..good luck

Answer 2

No Kits, more aggrivation just to read instructions.  Either go with stick frame or buy already built.

Answer 3

I am a carpenter and have built many sheds in the last 30 years, so take it from when I say that it will be cheaper to buy the material and build it yourself.

But the part you have to watch out for is how you finish the outside. If you are planing to put shingles on the roof, or to add siding to the walls, then it will be more expensive. But if you go with paint for the walls (and even the roof if you wanted to), then it would be cheaper to make it yourself.

you can also save money buy going to a place that sells used construction/building supplies for things like the hinges for the door.

There is also the added bonus of the satisfation of having built it yourself

Answer 4

i'm building a 10'x16' in a month or two and it'll be much cheaper than spending 3-5 grand for the same thing.  i'll build it for less than half of what it'll take to buy the same thing.