How Much Does It Cost to Build a Shed in 2026? ($1,600–$12,500 DIY Guide)
Quick Answer
A typical DIY backyard shed build in 2026 costs about $2,000 to $9,000 for common sizes, or roughly $20 to $45 per square foot for materials. Building yourself is far cheaper than buying a prefab shed, especially once delivery and setup are added. Final cost depends mostly on shed size, material choices, and foundation type. Stores often charge $5,000 to $10,000 for similar sheds.
For example, a typical 12×16 prefab shed often costs $6,000 to $9,000 installed.
Average Cost by Shed Size
These ranges assume a typical wood-framed storage shed with a gable roof, 8 ft walls, and a gravel foundation. Pricing reflects 2026 U.S. averages for DIY material costs.
| Shed Size | Typical DIY Cost Range |
|---|---|
| 8×8 | $1,600 to $2,800 |
| 8×10 | $2,200 to $3,800 |
| 10×12 | $2,800 to $4,500 |
| 12×16 | $4,500 to $7,500 |
| 12×20 | $5,500 to $9,000 |
| 14×20 | $6,000 to $9,500 |
| 16×20 | $7,500 to $12,500 |
Larger sheds increase cost quickly because the roof, wall surface, and foundation materials scale with total square footage.
Cost Breakdown by Category
Materials are the largest expense for a DIY shed. The total swings most when lumber, sheathing, and siding prices move.
Materials
- Lumber: floor framing, wall studs, plates, and roof framing
- Sheathing: floor, wall, and roof sheets
- Roofing: underlayment, shingles, and drip edge
- Siding: panel, lap, or engineered options
- Doors: prehung or DIY build
- Fasteners: nails, screws, connectors, and adhesives
Foundation
- Gravel base: most affordable and common for storage sheds
- Concrete slab: higher cost but adds durability and stability
Hardware & Finishing
- Hinges, handles, and locks
- Trim and flashing
- Paint or stain
- Ventilation
Tools
If you already own basic tools, costs stay low. If not, budget for essentials like a saw, drill, level, and measuring tools.
Cost Per Square Foot
DIY shed cost typically ranges from about $20 to $45 per square foot in 2026, depending on material choices and foundation. Prefab sheds cost far more because you are paying for manufacturing, delivery, and profit margin in addition to materials.
DIY vs Prefab Shed Cost Comparison
Example comparison for a common mid-size shed:
- Typical store-bought shed: $4,500 to $7,500
- Delivery and setup: $300 to $1,500
- Material-only DIY cost: $2,800 to $4,500
- Estimated savings: $1,500 to $3,500
The savings get larger as shed size increases.
Detailed plans make the process much easier and help avoid costly mistakes.
One-time payment. Instant digital download.
What Affects Shed Cost Most
- Size
- Foundation type
- Roofing choice
- Siding choice
- Door style
- Interior finish
- Labor (DIY vs hired)
Ways to Reduce Cost
- Use a gravel foundation instead of a concrete slab.
- Choose standard lumber dimensions to reduce waste.
- Avoid unnecessary windows and upgrades.
- Build a simple gable roof for cheaper framing.
- Buy materials in bulk where possible.
Is Building a Shed Worth It?
If you are comfortable with basic tools, building a shed yourself can save thousands. The tradeoff is time and effort, but most homeowners find the savings worth it.
Shed Material Lists by Size
See exact material requirements and costs for specific shed sizes:
Build Your Own Shed With Step-By-Step Plans
Detailed shed plans can simplify the entire process by giving you the exact details you need before you buy materials.
- Exact material lists
- Cut lists
- Drawings
- Step-by-step instructions
One-time payment. Instant digital download.