2x3 studs on 24 inch centres for shed?

[ontario]

I'm planning a new shed for the backyard and would like to maximize the interior space. Due to space restrictions, the maximum size I can build is 6'6"x12'. In a previous shed that I built, I found the 2x4s at 16" centres got in the way of shelving and interior storage. 2x3s at 24" would give me a lot more room to move things around.

I plan to sheath the walls with 1/2" exterior plywood and then 5/16" Hardie cementboard panels.

Would you folks go with the 2x3s at 24" or give up the interior space for more rigidity and strength?

[David]

Are 2x4's @16oc required for a shed? Depends on the overall factors, but in short, probably not.

However, I don't think I'd go with 2x3's. I'd go to 2x4's at 24" oc. Moving down to 2x3 significantly reduces the amount of weight that the walls can hold, not to mention the amount of weight on the interior to be hung from the walls. I wouldn't do it.

The 1/2" sheet of ply will help with sheer strength, but not with bearing the weight of the roof, snow, and things hung from the ceiling.

So, I'd use 2x4 at 16 or 24, and keep stuff of infrequent use overhead.

[CThomp]

The code monster may disagree w/ 2x3's as well. Even though it is an out building it is still an insurable structure. Is there really that much of a difference for you between 6'6" and 6'4"? And if you're still wrapped up in the space between the studs maybe a post-frame shed on 4x4's? It would probably add a bit more cost to the project but the strength would be there. And you could use girts which attach to the exterior of the posts rather than set inside the load bearing posts like stud walls do.

[ontario]

The code monster may disagree w/ 2x3's as well. Even though it is an out building it is still an insurable structure. Is there really that much of a difference for you between 6'6" and 6'4"? And if you're still wrapped up in the space between the studs maybe a post-frame shed on 4x4's? It would probably add a bit more cost to the project but the strength would be there. And you could use girts which attach to the exterior of the posts rather than set inside the load bearing posts like stud walls do.

Post frame construction - never thought of that. It looks appealing but I have no experience with it. Thanks for the idea, I will research it.

[CThomp]

From everything i've read if you can build a deck you can build a simple post frame.

You could always use longer posts for one side and just do a simple shed style roof.

[David]

Tauton has an excellent book about building outbuildings.
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1561586196/