Build the Foundation Dig two trenches 16 in. wide, 12 in. deep and 13 ft. long. Center the trenches 66 in. apart. Fill the trenches with a 3-in. layer of gravel and compact it with a hand tamper ...

Dear James: After many years, our large garage is finally full of “stuff,” so I want to build a backyard storage shed. What are the best options for building one myself? — Jenni T.

ASK THE BUILDER | You may feel the answer to keeping a shed cool in the heat of summer is just adding more insulation. That's folly. Insulation gets hot too, and it releases the heat slowly.