Building from Scratch! Tool List + Experience SharingBuilding from Scratch! Tool List + Experience Sharing

Our home tools and cargo bike were taking up too much space, and the original garage couldn’t fit everything anymore. So, over the weekends, I dug the foundation, backfilled with gravel, leveled the ground, laid concrete bricks, and built a new tool shed. My Danish colleague said I’m becoming more and more like a Dane.

     Key Takeaways 

• Check local building regulations and apply for permits in advance. In Denmark, review the local plan (byggeri) and existing secondary building area to determine if a permit is needed. Unpermitted structures may require neighbor approval, affect property sales, or even lead to fines (~7500 DKK/week) if reported.

• Rent the right tools. If you're inexperienced, opt for longer rental periods to avoid rushing. A few extra hours or a day usually costs just a bit more, while late fees can be steep.

• Ask experienced staff for advice. For example, consult them on concrete nails, paving stones, or self-leveling compounds. (A staff member who used to work in construction gave me great tips on installing concrete nails!)

• Notify and maintain good relations with neighbors. Construction noise, equipment, and temporary obstructions can be disruptive. My neighbors were supportive, even checking in and complimenting our progress.

• Ensure precise measurements (right angles, edge distances, etc.). Poor foundational work can complicate later stages.

• Get a reliable helper.

• Prioritize safety.

 Tools & Materials List

• Shovel (or rent a mini excavator)

• Dump trailer (for soil removal, rentable)

• Sand, bricks, pavers, or concrete

• Wheelbarrow (for moving soil and materials)

• Levels (long, medium, short) – for sand leveling, brick alignment, and checking evenness

• Long measuring tape

• Plate compactor (rentable, for ground compaction)

• High-torque electric screwdriver

• Drill + concrete nails (drill bit should be 0.5mm smaller than the nail diameter; screw in manually after drilling)

• Carpenter’s square + long wooden board (for measuring edges and guiding brick placement)

• Gloves (buy several pairs)

• Rope (for marking boundaries)

• Ladder

This project taught me a lot about construction and hands-on work, and the sense of accomplishment was incredibly rewarding. Hope these tips help you too!