Build a Tiny House

Schedule

Week 1: Foundation and Flooring

Goal

Establish the foundation, install the floor frame, and lay the floor panels.

Class Agenda (4 Hours)

1. Introduction to Tools & Safety (30 min)
2. Review PPE usage: safety glasses, gloves, hearing protection, etc.
3. Introduce tools (drills, circular/miter saw, wireless nailer, speed square, metal shears, etc.).

4. Emphasize safety protocols when handling power tools.

5. Foundation Layout (1 hour)

6. Measure and mark the shed’s footprint on the ground.
7. Place concrete blocks and ensure they are level and square.

8. Discuss drainage considerations to prevent water pooling under the shed.

9. Installing Floor Joists (1.5 hours)

10. Cut and install pressure-treated 2x6 joists.
11. Secure joists with hangers and exterior-grade screws.

12. Check for proper spacing (commonly 16” on-center).

13. Floor Panels (1 hour)

14. Vapor Barrier Clarification: A dedicated vapor barrier is generally not required for raised sheds built with pressure-treated wood. However, proper ventilation or a moisture barrier can be considered for extremely damp conditions.
15. Install tongue-and-groove plywood floor panels.
16. Fasten floor panels every 8” along each joist for secure installation.
17. Cover the foundation with a tarp at the end of the day to protect it from weather.

Non-Class (Teacher) Work

• Double-check that the foundation remains square and level.
• Finish securing floor panels if not completed during class.
• Organize and store tools and materials for the next session.

Recommended YouTube Videos

• Home RenoVision DIY – Building a Shed Foundation
• iBuildIt – Shed Floor Framing Tutorial

Week 2: Walls and Windows

Goal

Frame and install the walls and windows.

Class Agenda (4 Hours)

1. Wall Framing Basics (30 min)
2. Discuss framing techniques, measuring studs, and wall layout using a chalk line or speed square.

3. Emphasize proper nailing patterns and maintaining a square frame.

4. Build Wall Frames (1.5 hours)

5. Measure, cut, and assemble 2x4 studs according to wall height specifications.
6. Raise frames for all four walls and secure them to the floor.

7. Sheathing/Siding: Mark openings for doors and windows before cutting.

8. Install Windows and Door (1.5 hours)

9. Cut openings for windows and the pre-hung door in the framing.
10. Secure window and door frames, add flashing around the edges, and fill gaps with spray foam insulation.

Note: Temporary bracing is optional but may be used for safety or additional support.

Non-Class (Teacher) Work

• Finalize any wall frame attachments or corrections.
• Pre-cut siding/sheathing panels if time allows.

Recommended YouTube Videos

• This Old House – How to Frame Walls
• Country Life Projects – Shed Windows & Door Installation

Week 3: Roofing and Insulation

Goal

Install the roof structure, sheathing, and insulation.

Class Agenda (4 Hours)

1. Roof Framing (1 hour)
2. Measure, cut, and install 2x4 rafters at the correct pitch.

3. Secure rafters to the top wall plates using hurricane ties/storm ties.

4. Install Roof Sheathing (1 hour)

5. Cut plywood sheets to fit between rafters.
6. Skylight Installation: Use clear plexiglass covered with frosted film.

7. Attach plywood securely with screws or nails.

8. Roof Insulation and Vapor Barrier (1 hour)

9. Install insulation (batts or rigid foam) in the roof cavity.
10. Staple a vapor barrier under roof panels.

11. Add underlayment (felt paper or synthetic roll) on top of roof sheathing.

12. Install Corrugated Roof Panels (1 hour)

13. Secure metal panels using roofing screws with rubber washers.
14. Seal edges with flashing tape and polyurethane sealant.

Non-Class (Teacher) Work

• Finish installing or trimming the roof panels if not completed in class.
• Check seals, flashing, and ties for weather tightness.

Recommended YouTube Videos

• HouseImprovements – Shed Roof Framing Explained
• This Old House – Metal Roofing Installation
• Homemade Home – Skylight Installation for Shed

Week 4: Siding, Finishing Touches, and Interior

Goal

Install siding, paint the exterior, and complete interior finish work.

Class Agenda (4 Hours)

1. Install Siding Panels (1.5 hours)
2. Position and secure dual-purpose plywood siding to the wall frames.

3. Seal gaps with exterior-grade sealant.

4. Exterior Paint (30 min)

5. Apply waterproofing stain or exterior paint to siding and exposed wood.

6. Interior Insulation & Wall Panels (1.5 hours)

7. Install stone wool insulation in wall cavities.
8. Secure hardboard panels or drywall to interior studs.

9. Add a pegboard on one wall for tool organization.

10. Final Touches (30 min)

11. Install door knobs, flashing, and roof drip edges.
12. Install a ductless mini-split system for heating/cooling.
13. Mount gutters to manage roof runoff.

Non-Class (Teacher) Work

• Add built-in shelving or storage if needed.
• Test the mini-split system.
• Conduct a final walkthrough.

Recommended YouTube Videos

• Construct101 – Installing Plywood Siding on a Shed
• Fix This Build That – Exterior Wood Sealing Tips
• This Old House – How to Install a Ductless Mini-Split

Additional Course Notes

1. Teacher-Managed Homework/Prep
2. Organize and set out tools/materials before each class.

3. Pre-cut wood pieces to optimize class hours.

4. Parental Assistance (Optional)

5. Adults may help with heavy lifting or measurements outside of class.

6. Weekly Post-Class Review

7. Dedicate 15 minutes at the end of each class to review progress and plan ahead.

By following this schedule, students gain hands-on experience in carpentry, project management, tool safety, and finishing techniques. At the end of 4 weeks, you will have a fully functional winter workshop shed and a wealth of new skills!