How to Build a Shed Ramp - Kitchen Cabinets

Adding a ramp to your shed can make it much easier to get equipment like lawnmowers or wheelbarrows in and out. Building a shed ramp yourself can also save you money compared to buying a premade ramp. With the right materials and tools, and a good understanding of proper ramp construction techniques, you can build a sturdy, safe shed ramp.

Choose the Ramp Design

There are a few basic design options to consider for your shed ramp:

Permanent vs Portable

A permanent ramp is fixed in place and attached securely to the shed. This provides the most stability but less flexibility if you need to move or reposition the ramp later. Portable ramps can be detached and moved as needed, but may be less sturdy.

Straight vs Curved

Straight ramps provide the most direct path and are easiest to build. Curved ramps are harder to construct but take up less space.

Single Slope vs Switchback

A single sloped ramp is simplest, requiring less materials and labor. Switchback ramps double back on themselves, requiring a landing in between. This allows for a more gradual slope that is easier to use.

For most standard sheds, a straight permanent ramp with a single slope is usually the best option. The slope should be as gradual as possible while still fitting in the available space.

Choose Building Materials

Pressure treated lumber is well-suited for ramp construction since it stands up to weather and resists rot and insects. 2×6 or 2×8 boards are commonly used to provide stability and support:

Stringers – These are the primary load carrying ramp beams. Use three stringers spaced evenly apart.
Decking – The ramp surface or decking is attached perpendicularly across the stringers. 2×6 deck boards work well for most ramps.
Ledgers – These boards mount the stringers securely to the shed.
Hardware – Carriage bolts, lag bolts, and deck screws are ideal for ramp construction.
Additional lumber may be needed for support posts, bracing, and railings.

Gather the Necessary Tools

Constructing a shed ramp is easier with the right tools on hand:

Circular or reciprocating saw – For cutting lumber and hardware.
Drill/driver – For driving screws and bolts.
Level – Critical for ensuring the ramp components are even and flat.
Safety equipment – Gloves, eye protection, etc.
Shovel – For excavating and preparing the ramp site.
Wrenches – For tightening bolts and hardware.
Measuring tape – For sizing and cutting materials accurately.

Having these tools ready will make the ramp building process smoother and safer. Consider renting or borrowing any items you don’t have.

Choose the Ramp Placement

Take measurements to determine the optimal location and orientation of the ramp:

The ramp should lead directly up to a shed door opening if possible.
Minimize the overall ramp length needed by placing it near the door.
There should be adequate level space for the ramp at both the top and bottom.
The area in the ramp’s path should be clear of trees and rocks.

Consider sunlight exposure so the ramp surface won’t become slippery with snow and ice in winter. Proper drainage is also important to prevent water from pooling under the ramp.

Calculate the Dimensions

The two most critical measurements are the ramp’s slope ratio and total length:

Slope – A 1:12 ratio (1 foot of rise for every 12 feet of run) is recommended for shed ramps. Steeper slopes are more difficult and hazardous to use.
Length – Measure the vertical rise from the ground to the shed floor. Multiply this by 12 to get the minimum recommended ramp length. For example, if the rise is 2 feet, the ramp should be at least 24 feet long (2 x 12 = 24). Round up if needed for full deck board lengths.

Accounting for slope and length will provide a ramp that is safe and easy to navigate, while minimizing materials.

Prepare the Site

With your measurements and location chosen, prep the ramp site:

Clear and level the area thoroughly where the ramp will be placed.
Dig shallow trenches for the stringers to rest in, keeping them level with the shed floor height.
Add compacted gravel fill if needed to level and strengthen the soil.
Use landscape edging to delineate the ramp area.

Proper site preparation will provide the stable base needed to anchor and support the ramp.

Build the Ramp Framework

The ramp structure consists of stringers mounted on ledger boards attached to the shed:

Cut (3) stringers to the calculated ramp length. Use 2×6 or 2×8 lumber.
Mount ledger boards securely to the shed rim joists with several 3″ lag bolts.
Position the stringers evenly spaced on the ledger boards. Attach with more lag bolts.
Check that the stringers are flat, level, and all hardware is tight.

The main ramp framework spanning from the shed to the ground is now complete.

Add the Deck Boards

With the structure in place, the ramp decking can be installed:

Cut 2×6 deck boards to fit perpendicular across the stringers.
Leave a 1/8″ gap between each board to allow for drainage and expansion.
Stagger the end joints between rows for smoother transitions.
Use 2 or 3 screws at each stringer to fasten the deck boards securely.
Place deck boards to cover the entire ramp up to the shed floor.

The decking provides the vital ramp surface while also reinforcing the overall structure.

Install Railings and Finishing Touches

Railings, supports, and bracing complete the ramp:

Railings – At least one railing is recommended for safety. Use 2×4 posts with 2×2 balusters spaced less than 4″ apart.
Support posts – Place solid 4×4 posts under the bottom stringers anchored in concrete.
Bracing – Diagonal bracing between stringers and posts adds stability.
Hardware – Use exterior rated screws and hardware throughout.
Paint/stain (optional) – A protectant finish helps the ramp last longer.

With railings for safety and proper supports in place, the shed ramp is ready for use!

How to Build a Shed Ramp: Step-by-Step

Follow these key steps to build your own shed ramp:

Step 1: Design and Plan the Ramp

Decide on ramp design – permanent or portable, straight or curved, single or switchback slope.
Choose lumber type and hardware. Pressure treated wood is ideal.
Gather needed tools and equipment.
Take measurements of rise, run, and shed door opening.

Step 2: Prepare the Installation Site

Clear area of debris and vegetation.
Dig shallow trenches for stringers if needed.
Add and compact gravel base if site needs leveling.

Step 3: Construct the Ramp Framework

Mount ledger boards securely to shed rim joists.
Position stringers on ledgers spaced evenly apart.
Anchor stringers to ledgers with multiple lag screws.
Ensure stringers are level end-to-end and sit flush against ledgers.

Step 4: Install the Ramp Deck Boards

Cut 2×6 deck boards to fit snugly between stringers.
Leave 1/8” gaps between boards for drainage.
Stagger end joints between rows.
Fasten each board through to stringers with 2-3 screws.

Step 5: Add Railings, Supports, and Bracing

Mount sturdy corner railing posts and balusters for safety.
Place concrete footings and posts beneath ramp stringers.
Add diagonal bracing between stringers and vertical posts.

Step 6: Apply Protective Finish (Recommended)

Lightly sand any rough surfaces.
Apply exterior wood stain/sealer with brush or roller.
Allow finish to dry fully before using ramp.

And that’s it – you now have a brand new shed ramp! Just do a final check that all hardware is tight and the ramp feels rigid and secure. Maintaining your ramp by re-applying protective finish annually will keep it in great shape for years of service.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Here are some key mistakes that are good to be aware of when working on your shed ramp project:

Improper slope – A slope that is too steep will be difficult and unsafe to use. Always adhere to the recommended 1:12 ratio.
Not spacing stringers evenly – Stringers carry the load and must be precisely spaced for proper support.
Inadequate attachment to shed – Ledger boards must be robustly lag bolted into the rim joists.
Leaving gaps between deck boards – Any gaps wider than 1/8” can catch wheels and become a tripping hazard.
Lack of railings – Railings are essential for maintaining stability when traversing the ramp. Don’t neglect them!
Not checking for level – The ramp surface needs to be level across the stringers and also side-to-side for ease of use.
Cheap fasteners – Use exterior-rated, corrosion-resistant screws and bolts throughout the project.

Avoiding these common pitfalls will ensure your shed ramp is structurally sound and safe for regular use moving equipment and materials.

Shed Ramp Maintenance

Like any wood structure exposed to the elements, your shed ramp will require periodic maintenance to keep it in good shape:

Inspect the ramp surface – Look for any loose, cracked or rotting boards that may need replacement.
Check hardware tightness – Vibration can loosen bolts/screws over time – tighten as needed.
Re-apply protective finish – Maintaining the wood stain or sealer will maximize lifespan.
Remove debris and vegetation – Clear any dirt, leaves, plants or overgrowth.
Shovel snow and salt icy patches – Prevent buildup of winter weather that could be hazardous.
Check for level – Make sure the ramp remains even and hasn’t shifted over time.

With proper construction and regular upkeep, a shed ramp can provide safe and reliable access to your storage shed for many years! Let this guide help you build a high quality ramp the right way.

Frequently Asked Questions About Building a Shed Ramp

What size hardware should be used for a shed ramp?

3/8″ diameter lag bolts and carriage bolts are sufficient for a standard shed ramp. Use 3-4 bolts to attach each stringer into the ledger board. Deck screws should be #8 or #10 gauge for fastening the deck boards.

What is the maximum slope that is recommended for a shed ramp?

A 1:12 slope ratio (1 foot of rise for every 12 feet of run) is the recommended maximum for shed ramps. Anything steeper risks becoming too tricky for equipment to safely traverse.

How much space should surround the shed ramp?

A minimum of 1 foot clearance is advised around the sides of the ramp. Having adequate space allows for construction, maintenance, and helps prevent issues with drainage.

Is gravel or concrete best under ramp stringers?

Compacted gravel generally provides sufficient support, but concrete footings are preferred for very soft or wet soil conditions. In most cases gravel footings 1-2 inches deep are suitable.

How far apart should railing posts be spaced?

Railing posts provide the most stability when spaced 6-8 feet apart. Closer spacing may be required for longer ramps or if using thinner railing materials. The end posts should be securely concreted in place.

How much weight can a 2×6 or 2×8 shed ramp support?

Properly constructed 2×6 ramp stringers spaced 16″ apart can safely support over 3,000 lbs, enough for common shed equipment and small vehicles. 2×8 stringers offer even greater weight capacity of 5,000 lbs or more.

How do you attach the top of the ramp stringers to the shed?

Ledger boards screwed securely into the shed’s rim joists are used to mount the ramp stringers. Multiple 3/8″ x 6″ galvanized lag bolts through the ledger into the rim joists provides a sturdy connection.

Is plywood suitable for decking a shed ramp?

While plywood is cheaper and widely available, it won’t last as long exposed to weather. Pressure treated deck boards specifically designed for ramps and exterior structures are a better choice.

How much space should be between deck boards?

Deck boards should be spaced approximately 1/8″ apart. This allows for drainage without creating a tripping hazard. Small spacers can be used during installation to gap the boards evenly.

Conclusion

Adding a quality shed ramp provides a huge convenience for accessing stored equipment and materials in your shed. Carefully planning the design and following sound construction principles will ensure your ramp is safe, durable, and easy to use for years to come. What kind of shed ramp project do you have planned? With the tips and techniques covered here, you can tackle your ramp build with confidence.