How to Build a Ramp for a Shed

Considering all the heavy equipment that gets put into sheds like those really nice lawn mowers, bikes, and even motorcycles, you may find yourself thinking about the advantages of building a ramp attachment to your shed. After all, it’s much easier to wheel something up a ramp then hoist it through the doors every time you need to get a job done. The best part is, ​once you know how to build a ramp for a shed, the process is pretty easy.

​How to Build a Ramp for a Shed

This basic outline can be modified for any shed, as long as you follow the basic principles.

Building a ramp for your shed will make your life a lot simpler. 

One thing to think about prior to getting started is how much of a “finished” look you want for your ramp.

Some might be looking for a quick but durable ramp that isn’t necessarily visually appealing. 

Others might want to build a shed ramp that fits the look and design of their ramp.

​Either way, figure this out before you start. Adding design and style to your ramp will add extra steps, but will also up the look and feel.

Step 1: Tools and Materials Needed

The dimensions of your shed’s foundation and height will determine the basic tools and materials you’ll need. Equipment necessary when building a ramp for a shed includes:

• Safety Gloves and glasses
• Miter saw and/or jigsaw
• Tape measure, level, carpentry pencil
• Drill machinery and bits
• Plywood sheets
• 2×4 lumber for joists
• Ledger boards
• Screws
• Concrete reinforcement (optional)
• Concrete screws (optional)

There are additional pieces you can add after the ramp is installed, such as a non-slip paint or adhesive to keep the ramp safe. These materials can be found at any basic hardware store. In fact, it’s likely you probably already have most of the tools you need.

Step 2: Measure your Materials

The first step when building a ramp is to determine the dimensions you need. When you build a ramp to fit an already existing structure, the dimensions will be slightly different for everyone. But there are a few basic rules you can follow:

• The ramp should be 3-6 inches past the door opening on both sides. If you can, take this into consideration when you are building your shed doors.
• The leger board should sit about 2 inches below the height of the shed floor. When decking boards are installed over them, they will connect seamlessly to the shed.
• The incline should be a gentle one. Measure a distance about 36 inches away from the top of the shed floor and measure the distance with a placeholder.

Step 3: Reinforce the Area

Before you can begin building anything for your ramp, you’ll need to reinforce the area. Attach a support plank to the exterior of the shed, between the bottom of the door and the ground. Cut the support beam to the right size, ensure that it is horizontal, and affix with screws.

If you want a shed ramp that withstands heavy loads, you will also need to think about additional concrete reinforcement on the ground. Placing joists directly in the ground can be done, but the wood will rot over time.

If you decide to insert a concrete reinforcement, anchor a slab approximately 36 inches away from the door. Make sure the ground is level and attach a piece of lumber to the side closest to the door. Drill pilot screw into the concrete, and secure in place with concrete screws.

Step 4: Measure Joists

Build the joists for the ramp using 2×4 wood. Place one end against the door and measure the angle where it hits the ground. Mark this angle with a pencil and cut the angle with an accurate jigsaw. If you have concrete reinforcement, cut out the place where the wood anchor will be.

Use this measurement to cut out the four other joists that will make up the frame of your ramp.

Step 5: Fit the Joists to the Ledger

Space the cut joists evenly against the ledger. You will want to have one joist at either end of the ramp, with two evenly spaced in the middle. This creates a neat finish on the outside.

Make sure the joists are put in place about 3/4″ from the top of the ledger, to allow a seamless fit between the surface board and the shed floor.

Secure the joists with 3-inch deck screws, and ensure they go straight through the ledger into the shed itself.

Step 6: Attach a Plywood Surface Board

To finish off the project, you will need to attach a plywood board over the tops of the joists. Measure the board to fit the ramp and cut with a circular saw. Secure the cut board with 1 ¼ inch screws.

You can also forgo a plywood surface finish for a 1×6 or 1×4 boards if you prefer. Or, create a polished finish by cutting 2×6 decking boards and laying them over the joists.

Finish the whole project off by filling holes or dents with wood putty, and letting it rest for several hours. Use sandpaper to smooth off any rough edges, and finish with the same paint color of your shed for a professional touch.

Step 7: Finishing Touches

Shed ramps can get quite slippery when they get wet. As a finishing touch, you may want to install a non-slip surface onto your boards to give the ramp some grip.

You can purchase non-slip tread stickers at most hardware stores. These are adhesive and stick right to the board. You can also try floor paints that have sand in their mix to provide an alternative non-slip coat.

When painting the ramp, make sure to apply multiple coats to prevent any appearance of decay or age.

Conclusion

Whether you’re putting the finishing touches on a brand-new shed or giving a facelift to an old project, building a ramp for your shed can make life a lot easier. Learning how to make a ramp for a shed is a great weekend project, and it can save you a whole lot of money just by doing it yourself.