33 DIY Lean To Shed Plans That Are Inexpensive To Build

Building a lean-to shed can be a practical and affordable way to add extra storage space to your property. I remember when I decided to build my own lean-to shed a couple of summers ago. I found plans online, much like the ones mentioned here, which made the process easier.

These plans typically provide step-by-step instructions, making it simple for anyone to follow along. One thing I particularly liked was how some plans included guidance on running electricity from the house to the shed. This meant I could use power tools and lights inside, making the shed even more functional.

With the right materials and a bit of time set aside, you can have your own DIY lean-to shed up and ready for use in no time. It’s a satisfying project that adds both utility and value to your property.

Here is a list of some common tools used in these projects:

• Shovel
• Earth rammer/tamper
• Drill driver
• Drill bits
• Hand saw
• Wood preserver
• Caulk gun
• Circular Saw
• Angle grinder

1- She Shed With Lean To Tool Shed

The first one in my list is a she shed! A cute she shed can quickly turn into a catch-all shed if there is nowhere else to store seldom used items. Building a lean to shed by Plasticinehouse on the side of a she shed can keep the lawn and garden tools out of her personal space and in a space of their own.

Get these free plans that will show you how to make a lean to shed on the side of your she shed so everyone and everything will have a place of their own. This lean to shed is inexpensive to build and will not take away from the cute appearance of the she shed.

The lean to shed is easy to build and is large enough to hold a lot of tools and other clutter that would otherwise be stored in the she shed. Keep your she shed clean and free of clutter by building a lean to shed.

2- Lean To Shed

This lean to shed plan on YouTube will show you all the steps for building a lean to shed on the side of your house.

Check out this detailed lean to shed plans instructional video that will show you what to do from start to finish. Watch how to prepare the selected location, build a frame for pouring a concrete pad, and all the other steps until the DIY lean to shed in this Youtube Video is completed.

If you have a narrow landscape space on the side of your house that is not useful for entertainment or growing plants, consider putting the space to use by building a lean to shed like this one. It’s inexpensive and quick to build.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XwAflhmt_Dw

3- Large Lean To Shed Plans

Check out this large storage shed plans that will show you how to build a lean to shed that measures 12‘×16‘ and has a large double door on the front. This large size and double door make this an ideal storage shed for a riding lawn mower or yard tractor.

Use a sliding barn door on the front to make the DIY lean to shed by myoutdoorplans, look more like a barn instead of a storage building. Detailed building plans and materials list help make this DIY building project simple to complete.

4- Small Cedar Shed 

I recommend this lean to shed to those who have small space and don’t have a lot of tools and equipment to store.Get these storage shed plans that will show you how to build a small cedar shed that is attractive and functional. Ideal for small backyards and people who have minimal lawn and garden tools.

This good-looking lean to shed by Ana-White is ideal for a few pool toys and lawn tools. Ideal for a sub-division that has rules on the appearance and size of outdoor sheds. The cedar wood will also make this shed attractive, pest-free, and long-lasting.

5- Storage Shed

Use these free plans to build a lean to shed by gardenplansfree so you keep all your tools and toys stored in one location. De-clutter the yard, the garage cabinet, and the porch by building this simple storage shed that can hold a lot of items without taking up a lot of yard space.

Lean to shed plans make the building process easy and include a material list, photos of the process, and step by step instructions. Related: DIY pallet shed.

6- Simple Lean To Shed

The simple shape of this structure only requires basic carpentry skills and enables you to complete the DIY project in just one weekend.

Get the clutter out of your garage and backyard by building this lean to shed plan by Perfectforhome in five easy steps. Detailed plans and a finished lean to shed that looks like it’s part of the house. Add storage space and value to your house with this DIY building project.

7- 5‘x7‘ Lean To Shed 

A little storage space can go a long way with these lean to shed plans by howtospecialist. This small 5‘x7‘ shed has a wide door opening so there’s ample room for storing a riding lawn mower or an ATV. Drive the equipment right inside the storage shed through the wide door, then shut and lock the door to keep the equipment safe and out of the elements.

There is also plenty of room for storing other items along with lawn or play equipment inside this small and efficient storage shed.

8- Outdoor Shed Plans

This easy to build storage shed by Home Tips leans against your house, garage, or other structure to give it support and stability during any type of weather. Lean to sheds are structurally sound and water proof, so you can store valuable outdoor equipment inside one of them without worry.

Get these detailed lean to shed plans that will show you how to build a 4‘x6‘ that can hold a lot of yard equipment. The small size does not take up much yard space and the shed can have shelves installed to triple the interior storage space.

9- Small Space Lean To Shed

Do you have a small awkward outdoor space that seems to have to purpose? Use the small space to build a DIY lean to shed on youtube.

Sometimes outdoor space near the steps or behind the garage has an awkward angle or it’s too small to be useful in a traditional application, so it goes unused. Put that space to good use by building a storage shed with these free shed plans.

This YouTube video will show you how to build a lean to shed from start to finish. The shed can be customized to fit your small outdoor space.

10- Lean To Against a Shed

Do you have an outdoor storage shed that just is not big enough to hold all of your garden tools and other needed yard items? Don’t tear down the existing shed and build a larger one, just add a lean to shed on the side of it.

We can all use more storage space and these lean to shed plans on Youtube will show you how to increase your outdoor storage space without demolishing an outdoor structure that you already have.

We think that a 10‘x10‘ storage shed will be large enough at first, but we keep buying equipment for the lawn, garden, pool, snow, etc., and before long we run out of storage room. Just use these free YouTube plans to build a lean to against the shed and your storage problem will be solved.

11- Backyard Shed Plans

Use these free storage shed plans to build a backyard shed so you can store all your lawn and garden equipment in one secure and dry location.

Keep plant food, weed killer, pool chemicals, and gas for the lawnmower stored securely behind a locked door and away from small children in this backyard shed. This DIY lean to shed by Wikihow will also keep chemicals, gas, and equipment dry and out of the elements.

12- 4‘x8‘ Lean To Shed Plans

This shed is big on interior storage space and small on the amount of your yard space it will take up. These free shed plans by construct101 will show you how to build a 4‘x8‘lean to shed with a large entry door. The large door will enable you to drive in a riding lawnmower or other equipment for storage, plus leave plenty of room to store other outdoor items.

Use siding to cover the lean to shed that matches your home to give it a finished look and increase home value.

13- Corrugated Metal Shed

This simple lean to shed on youtube is constructed using a wood frame and corrugated metal roofing for the sides and top. These free lean to shed plans on YouTube will show you how to construct the frame with wood and cover it with lightweight, durable, corrugated metal roofing.

This is a great build for a homestead and it will provide dray and secure storage for tools and equipment used for outdoor tasks.

14- Lean To Garden Shed

Keep all your gardening tools and equipment in one safe, dry location after you build this lean to garden Storage shed. Even if you already have a backyard storage shed, this easy to build DIY lean to shed by The Spruce would be great for storing gardening tools that have dirt and grass on them.

The weed eater, shovel, rake, hoe, and push mower would fit inside this little lean to and help you keep the main backyard storage shed clean.

15- 6‘x10‘ Lean To Shed

Use weather-resistant lumber and these free plans to build a long-lasting lean to shed made by myoutdoorplans on your property. Paint it the same color as your home and use matching roofing material so the shed will look like it was built at the same time as the house.

There is plenty of storage space inside of a 6‘x10‘ shed and it takes up very little land space in the backyard.

16- Shed Roof Plans

A good lean to shed like this one by howtospecialist must have a good roof to keep the interior of the shed dry. These free plans will show you how to build a custom-sized roof for your shed so your shed and everything stored inside will be protected from the elements.

17- Metal Lean To Shed

This no-frills metal lean to shed on youtube is fast and easy to build and ideal for storing fuel, oil, and other frequently used chemicals.

The front opening can be left uncovered for easy access or a double door can be added for security. Follow the instructions on this YouTube video for easy construction.

18- Small Lean To Shed

This 3×8 foot lean to shed is just the right size for storing a few pieces of lawn and garden equipment. These free plans will show you how to build a lean to roof by Imgur that will provide just the right amount of sloping to allow the rain and snow to run off quickly.

This small shed also has a shingle roof and is covered with siding so it looks like part of the home. Ideal for building in neighborhoods that have strict building codes.

19- Free Standing Lean To Shed

Sometimes you need a storage shed with a lean to design that does not actually lean up again your home or any other structure.

Watch this instructional YouTube video to learn how to build a lean to shed by DIY Pete that is free standing and has plenty of interior storage room. This is one of our favorite lean to shed plans. A free-standing storage shed like this one is ideal for a large homestead that has a riding lawn mower and other large pieces of outdoor equipment.

Easy to build and long lasting, this free-standing lean to shed can solve all your equipment storage needs.

20- Large Lean To Shed

This large lean to shed is 12×24 feet and has plenty of room for storage and work.

If you need a dry, safe place to park your vehicle, tractor, 4-wheel toys, or lawn equipment, plus have some room leftover, check out this lean to shed by myoutdoorplans.

Building a lean to shed like this large one will provide plenty of space to store equipment and create a workshop. Ideal for people living in climates that have cold, snowy winter weather. You will be able to keep your equipment dry and have a warm space to work on DIY projects.

21- Lean To Shed With Windows

Follow these free plans to learn how to build a lean to shed windows by Twofeetfirst that is just the right size for small a backyard.

If you want to reclaim your garage by getting the clutter out, this small lean to shed with windows just might be your answer. We love this lean to shed plan. The shed is just the right size for storing seasonal decor, pool toys, and garden supplies. The windows of the shed look attractive and provide enough light inside the shed so it will not need electricity.

The detailed lean to shed plans provide you with written instructions, plus pictures and building sketches to make this an easy DIY project for any homeowner.

22- Lean To Shed On Concrete Pad

This YouTube video will give you free lean to shed plans plus show you how to pour a concrete pad.

If you want a solid concrete floor for your DIY shed then watch this YouTube video for the instructions from start to finish. A sturdy concrete floor will hold up for decades under the weight of a riding lawn mower and other heavy lawn equipment.

The sloped roof provides for fast water and snowmelt runoff, so you won’t have to worry about a leaky roof. Plenty of interior storage space for all your equipment and outdoor toys.

23- Lean To Shed For Your Shed

If your outdoor shed is filled with lawn and garden equipment, snow blowers, patio furniture, and pool toys, you might need a lean to shed for your shed.

When you first build an outdoor shed you think there will be plenty of room for all your stuff but there is never enough storage space. As the years go by the stuff accumulates and you eventually will run out of space.

These free lean to storage shed plans by Plasticinehouse will show you how to build a lean to shed onto your outdoor shed to increase storage space. The lean to shed plans can be used to construct the new shed against any existing structure to keep the cost low.

24- Wood Lean To Shed

This PDF file contains detailed plans for building a wood lean to shed by buildblueprint that looks good and provides lots of outdoor storage space.

The sloped roof keeps the water and snow from collecting on top and the window allows plenty of natural light to come in so electricity won’t be needed for the shed. Adding electricity is an option for a wood shed, then it could become a She-Shed or workshop.

These lean to shed plans will show you how to build an 8×10 foot storage shed from wood.

25- Long and Narrow Lean To Shed

A lean to shed is a space saving outdoor room that can provide storage space and/or work space. The usable outdoor space you have will determine the width and length that you can build a lean to shed. These lean to shed plans by myoutdoorplans are perfect for small spaces or when you don’t want to take up too much of your yard space.

This lean to shed is 5-feet wide but it’s 16-feet long. It can be constructed along the backside of your house or garage without taking up much available land space.

26- 6×8 Feet Shed

Small free standing shed plans that will show you how to build a 6×8 feet storage shed.

Ideal for a small yard or if you don’t have much lawn and garden equipment. You can also extend the wood flooring platform to create a deck to sit on so you can enjoy the outdoors.

This easy DIY project by howtospecialist has many uses besides just storage. It would make a great place for crafting, wood working, or tea parties. Add some windows to the design and it could become a greenhouse where you could grow fresh food year-round.

27- Lean To Shed Blueprints

These free detailed blueprints will take you through the entire building process of a 12×16 feet lean to shed like this one by Sheddrafts.

From the foundation to the root, these blueprints will show you all the construction details. The sloped roof, 3 windows, and side door design make this outdoor structure adaptable for many different uses.

Download and print out these free blueprints and get started building your own lean to shed this weekend.

28- Garden Shed Plans

This 10x 12 lean to shed would make a great garden shed like this one by construct101 for storing tools and other garden supplies. These free shed plans rustic look will take you through the simple building process step by step so you can have a secure place to store tools.

The window lets the sunlight shine into the shed so even if you don’t want to run electricity into the shed it will still be bright inside. A lock is easy to install on the door so all your tools will be safe.

29- Windows And A Sloped Roof

This free lean to shed plan by sheddrafts will show you how to build a sturdy structure that has windows and a sloped roof.

The windows will allow an abundance of natural light to enter the shed so you won’t need to wire it for electricity. The sloped roof will ensure that rainwater and snowmelt will drain away from the house and not towards it. You can add rain barrels under the sloped roof to catch all the roof water runoff and use the free water in your garden and landscape.

These free lean to shed plans are in blueprint form and can be printed out for easy use while you’re working on the DIY project.

30- Large DIY Lean To Shed

Here are some free shed plans by myoutdoorplans that will show you how to build a large lean to that is ideal for storing motorcycles, ATVs, and a riding lawnmower. This large 16‘x24‘ lean to shed will be easy to connect to electricity from inside the home so the large shed can be used as a workspace for small engine repair or woodworking.

31- Start To Finish

Learn how to build a shed in this YouTube video from start to finish. These free lean to shed plans will show you how to prepare the ground and make it level and solid so the structure will have a firm foundation.

On top of the prepared soil, you will need to build a solid frame for the shed floor, followed by walls and a roof. Nothing is left out of this detailed DIY video. A shed like this is inexpensive to build and will add value to your home.

Every homeowner needs a shed to store items in and this may be the right one to meet your needs.

32- Lean To Shed With Roof Overhang

It’s important to have rainwater and melted snow run off the roof and away from structures, these lean to shed plans on youtube will show you how to make sure that happens.

This YouTube video is very detailed on how to build the shed roof with the proper overhang. Not only does the roof make the shed look good, but it also protects the lean to shed and the structure it’s built against from water damage.

Everything you need to know about building a shed with the correct roof is included in these lean to shed plans.

33- Cheap And Simple

This is an open-air style of lean to shed on youtube but sometimes that is all that you need. The open-air shed is built against two exterior walls that form a corner. The frame is topped with a simple metal roof and it keeps items dry and out of the elements.

These lean to shed plans for a cheap and simple structure will help you build a structure that will keep items in one location. Ideal for extra parts for cars, motorcycles, lawn equipment, etc. Watch this YouTube video to see if this style of lean to shed will work for you.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Building a Lean-To Shed Plans

Advantages

• A lean-to shed will fit into a smaller space than a free-standing shed. The lean-to design will allow you to utilize empty space next to any outdoor structure.
• Cost effective. Building a lean-to shed saves you a lot of money. You will only need to build 3 walls since 1 wall is created by the structure the shed is built against. Plus you can use recycled building materials for the DIY building project.
• Provides storage space. A DIY lean-to shed will provide storage space that can be used to keep lawn equipment, pool equipment, decor, garden tools, etc., in one location. Install a door and a lock on the lean-to shed and it will be a secure storage spot.
• Work space. A lean-to shed can be used as a work space that will keep you and your tools out of the elements while you work. Build, repair, craft, etc., all in the dry comfort of a DIY lean-too shed.

Disadvantages

• Prone to weather damage. Because the lean-to shed is lacking 1 wall or is an open-air design it’s not as stable as a structure with 4 walls. It can’t support the weight of heavy snowfall or remain stable in high winds.
• Difficult to heat. If you need an outdoor structure that is heated, a lean-to shed might not work for you. The structure is difficult to heat due to its design.
• Might require a building permit. Some municipalities and/or Home Owners Associations will not allow the construction of a lean-to shed.
• Mold and mildew. Unless the lean-to is an open-air style, the shed will require good ventilation or it will be an ideal breeding ground for mold and mildew.

Conclusion

A lean to shed plans enhance your existing shed space by building to the back or side of the existing structure. You can use this additional storage space to store all your garden and lawn equipment and tools. You can build any of these lean to sheds  from our list to store your equipment that deem fit your storing needs. Hope you like this article!

Frequently Asked Questions!

What should be the size of the lean to shed?

There is no fixed size for a lean to shed. You can build a shed smaller one starting from 3 by 3 to a larger one 12 by 16.

What are the Pros and cons to build a lean to shed plan.

The sheds are small in size and built with the existing wall so they are easy and affordable to build. You can use them for a variety of purposes such as storing tools, lawn and garden equipment or can use the space as a workshop. On the other hand lean to sheds cannot withstand high winds and are difficult to maintain in winter when temperature falls below freezing point as their insulation is not so solid.

Will I need a drainage system with a lean to shed.

The lean to shed has a sloping roof that runs off the water away from the door. However if you live in an area where there is heavy rainfalls you can build a shed to make drainage better.

Do I need a permit to build a lean to shed

Typically a shed that is built on a temporary structure doesn’t need a permit. However you must be aware of building requirement rules and regulations in your area.

References

Storables, Outdoor Structure, Published: January 22, 2024, “How To Build Lean To Off A Shed”, https://storables.com/gardening-and-outdoor/outdoor-structures/how-to-build-lean-to-off-a-shed/

Wiki How, Co-authored by Anthony “TC” Williams, “How to Add a Lean To Onto a Shed”, https://www.wikihow.com/Add-a-Lean-To-Onto-a-Shed