The gable roof, also known as the A-frame, is the most popular roofline for storage sheds. The sloping gable roof consists of two sides that join in a peak in the middle, resembling the letter A. The gable roof is a simple design, formed by attaching two large pieces of roof materials. This particular style uses minimal materials, making it the most economical type of shed roof.

Gable Shed design

(Freeimages / Shelley Paulson)

The gable shed design requires skids or concrete piers for its foundation. The shed could be 7 by 12 feet, with a centrally located front door and windows that are symmetrically placed on both sides. You could increase or decrease the size of your shed, depending on the available space.

The roof is constructed of simple trusses, which can be easily built to make a stable structure. Roofing materials could be asphalt or shingles laid over plywood sheathing and roofing felt or battens.

The skid foundation can be constructed using three 4 x 6 pressure-treated beams set 3 feet apart. Concrete piers must be 6 inches apart along the front and back of the shed. The piers should be covered with 12-foot 2 x 6 boards, preferably pressure-treated, which must be attached with anchors.

To cut the floor frame, start by cutting the rim and floor joists. The rim joists must be cut 7 feet long while the floor joists must be 141 inches long. Lay the floor joists following the rim joists, attaching them with either joist hangers or 16d nails. Place the assembled frame on the 2 x 6 runners and adjust until the frame is level. Make sure the frame is square to the runners and nail them together. Complete the floor with a layer of ¾-inch plywood sheathing.

The walls are constructed independently. Cut the top and bottom plates, including the wall studs using 2 x 4s. Using 10 pieces of 6-foot-long king studs, assemble the frame, making cuts for the door and window openings. Add the headers, cripples and jack studs.

Raise the first wall and drive 3-inch screws onto the bottom plate, then brace it in place. Repeat the procedure with the three other walls. Then mark the location for the roof trusses on the double top plates.

The roof framing requires seven trusses evenly spaced at 24 inches, each truss made of 8-foot long ceiling joist. It also requires two rafters that meet a 21-inch truss support, held together by 5/8-inch plywood gusset. Attach each of the end trusses to the double plates and allow them to hang equally on the front and back. Position the other trusses on the double plates so they are aligned with the end trusses. Attach them.

Use 5/8-inch plywood sheathing to cover the trusses. Then lay on 15-pound roofing felt. Install the ridge cap shingles. Finish the walls with channel siding. Install the windows and hang the door. Your gable shed is ready.

DIY Shed Plans