16x20 Shed Material List

Building a 16x20 shed is an exciting project that can provide extra storage, a workspace, or even a cozy guest house. To ensure your shed meets your needs and lasts for years, it's essential to use the right materials. Here's a comprehensive materials list to get you started.

The following list is categorized by type to help you navigate any local hardware store or online supplier. Remember, the actual materials may vary depending on your specific shed design, local building codes, and personal preferences.

Foundational Materials

Starting from the bottom up, a solid foundation is crucial for your shed's longevity and stability.

The typical foundation for a 16x20 shed consists of gravel, crushed stone, or concrete pavers, placed on a bed of sand for leveling. The precise quantity depends on your chosen material and the soil type. For example, a 16x20 area would require approximately 40-50 square feet of pavers or around 16 tons of gravel.

Gravel and Sand

• Base Layer: Use 2" minus gravel or larger crushed stone for the base layer, placing around 3-4 inches of material across the entire area.
• Leveling Layer: Add a layer of sand (about 1-2 inches) on top of the gravel to create a smooth, level surface for your shed's floor.

Concrete Pavers

• Pavers: Choose concrete pavers that are 12x12 inches or larger, which will cover the floor area without much cutting. You'll need enough pavers to cover around 40-50 square feet.
• Sandbox: Create a sandbox using landscape fabric to hold the sand while leveling the pavers.

Shed Floor Materials

The correct floor materials will ensure your shed is stable, durable, and easy to maintain.

For a 16x20 shed, you'll typically need around 300-350 square feet of floor materials. The following options cater to various budgets and preferences:

Pressure-treated Lumber

• Joists: Use 2x6 pressure-treated lumber for the floor joists, spaced 16 inches on center. This will give you around 15-16 joists for your 16x20 shed.
• Subfloor: Cover the joists with pressure-treated plywood, typically ¾-inch thick, for a sturdy and maintainable floor.

Concrete Slab

• Concrete: For a concrete slab floor, pour 4 inches of concrete on top of your foundation. You'll need around 2.75 cubic yards of concrete for a 16x20 shed.
• Formwork and Reinforcement: Rent formwork to create the perimeter of your slab, and include reinforcement bars to strengthen the concrete.

Wall Materials

Walls protect your shed's contents and determine its aesthetic appeal. Here are common wall materials for a 16x20 shed:

Plywood

Plywood is affordable, durable, and easy to work with. Ideal for sheds with simple designs, use ¾-inch thick plywood for the walls. You'll need around 18-20 sheets to cover both the walls and roof of a 16x20 shed.

OSB (Oriented Strand Board)

Similar to plywood, OSB is a cost-effective option with slightly less durability. It's ideal for sheds with simple designs and interior finishes. You'll need roughly the same amount of OSB as plywood for your 16x20 shed.

Now that you have a comprehensive materials list for your 16x20 shed, you're well-equipped to make informed decisions and bring your project to life. Start planning your dream shed today, and remember to consult local building codes and regulations before getting started.