How to Build Your Own Garden Shed!

How to Build a Shed is a guide for DIY fans who would prefer to build their own shed, rather than buy one ready-made from B & Q.

The ultimate guide to creating a garden retreat, man-cave or she-shed, this book helps you create an off-the-shelf shed, rather than cheap ready-made ones that are often badly made, freezing cold and fall apart within a few years.

What if you could build your own shed from scratch? Obviously you need to be fairly good at DIY. But if you are, this book contains the plans for those with the skills to create a retreat that is as stylish and well-made as a posh shed, but for a fraction of the price.

With clear easy instructions, expert advice and specially commissioned illustrations, this book will help you source materials, choose the right tools and build your dream shed on a budget.

If knocking down old sheds, check for wildlife (foxes make dens underneath, bats and hedgehogs hibernate in winter).

Also check hoglets have left home (at least 8 weeks after giving birth which can be from spring to July).

Non-toxic Powder-Based Wood Stain

Lifetime Wood Treatment (also sold in UK) is a nontoxic alternative to creosote. Ideal for decks, fences, furniture, windows and doors. Made from natural plants and minerals, this is not a varnish but causes wood to develop different shades over time, depending on the wood to which it is applied. Made to a 60 year old recipe, it’s sold in powder form, just mix with water and apply.

Creosote is harmful to children, pets, wildlife and plants. It’s a by-product of incomplete combustion, so is also flammable, and linked to chimney fires and carbon monoxide poisoning.

Creosote is also harmful to aquatic life, once it rinses down drains and goes into our rivers and seas.

It’s now classed as hazardous waste. So ask your local council how to dispose of its safely, as you can’t just put wood treated with it in recycling bins, or drop it off at household recycling centres.