How to Build a Tiny House

Learn how to build a tiny house with these step-by-step instructions — from clearing the building site to finishing up with trim.

January 2015

By the Editors of Skills Institute Press

How to Build a Tiny House Like a Pro

Good things do come in small packages — just ask internationally recognized small living expert, Jay Shafer. Ranging in size from 100 to 120 square feet, Jay Shafer's DIY Book of Backyard Sheds & Tiny Houses (Skills Institute Press LLC, 2013) features beautiful small houses can be used as guest cottages, art or writing studios, home offices, craft workshops, vacation retreats or a full-time residence. Whatever your building goal, this book will teach you how to plan and build your structure from the ground up. The following excerpts from the fourth chapter, "How to Build a Tiny House," walks you through each step of the decision-making and building process.

You can purchase this book from the GRIT store: Jay Shafer’s DIY Book of Backyard Sheds & Tiny Houses.

Clearing the Building Site	A Foundation on Poles	Masonry Foundation Piers for Stronger Supports	Building the Frame
Building the Walls	Installing Wood Floors	Building the Roof	Trusses to Support the Roof

Choosing and Installing Roofing Materials	Choosing and Installing Siding	Installing Windows	How to Install a Door Jamb
How to Hang a Door	Installing Trim Around the Door

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Reprinted with permission from Jay Schafer's DIY Book of Backyard Sheds & Tiny Houses: Build Your Own Guest Cottage, Writing Studio, Home Office, Craft Workshop, or Personal Retreat by Jay Schafer and published by Skills Institute Press LLC and Four Lights Tiny House Company, 2013. Buy this book from our store: Jay Shafer’s DIY Book of Backyard Sheds & Tiny Houses.