I'm looking to build a simple, but decent quality shed. I plan to use 1x4 trim around the windows and doors, shed corners, etc. DIY books I'm reading about sheds suggest using Cedar, but I was wondering if there's a cheaper solution? I don't think you can paint PT wood, so what else is there? Also, whatever wood I use, can I use exterior house paint or is solid stain better? What lasts longer? If I did use some kind of non-cedar wood but applied a good exterior grade paint, how long could I expect it to last? Finally, if there isn't a good alternative to Cedar, are there some places that are less critical? For example, is the window trim as critical as the corner trim when it comes to exposure, rot, etc? Thanks. Any advice is appreciated.

Hi, I am building a 12 x 16 shed(first time). I have railroad ties and put 3/4 clean stone above ground as can be seen in the pic. I compacted the stone using a plate compactor. My ground slopes from left to right and front to back, so it is difficult to get it leveled. Also, the 6 x 6 skids are not perfectly straight, so that doesn't help either. As of now, both of the skids are almost leveled individually. They are off by about 1/4 inch in some spots and 1/8 in other spots. However, when I tried to level the skids to each other by putting a 2 x 4 and a level across both of them, they are not level. They are off by about 1/2 inch in some places. It just seems very difficult to level them individually and also as a pair. I plan on putting a 2 x 6 floor with header joists and floor joists. So, can I shim between the skids and the header/floor joists? This would make life easier, because even if I level the skids, the 2 x 6 will not be 100% straight and would require some shimming anyways. If this works, what should I use for shims? Also, shimming would raise part of the joists of the skid, so should I cover all those gaps with wood shims or shingles? If the above is not a good idea, can I put concrete pavers underneath the skid to get it leveled? My only worry with this is that the pavers can sink into the gravel and also that the skid will be off the ground and in the air in a few places. I can put gravel underneath it, but it will be loose and will eventually fall out. Also, if anybody has any other options, it would be very helpful. Sorry the detailed post, but I am just confused on what to do. Thanks, John M. [ATTACH]14016[/ATTACH]