Your shed will only be as good as the foundations. Planning at this stage will ensure it's done right and your efforts will last for a very long time. In this article I will discuss a range of shed foundations that are commonly used.
1. The Dirt Floor
If your building a pole shed structure then a dirt floor is suitable. It is important though that water drains away from your shed as you don't want your stored goods getting damp from pooling of water on the shed floor
2. Blocks and Gravel
If your shed has timber framed walls you will need to place it on a stable, level surface that is dry. Crushed gravel, about 6 inches deep, can be used if water pooling is not a problem but a safer option is to place the shed framing on blocks on top of the gravel. That way you will have the peace of mind knowing that your framing will not get damp and rot overtime.
3. A Concrete Slab
Not many of us would feel confident pouring our own concrete slab but you could hire someone to do it for you. There is no doubt that concrete makes a great dry hard wearing floor surface but it is a more expensive option.
4. Concrete Piers
Rather than pouring a slab you can just pour concrete piers set into the ground and place and attach your shed on them. This gives you a solid foundation and keeps your shed frame off the ground. Gravel can then be used to cover the floor area.
It is important that whatever foundation you choose, that the frame can sit level other wise your doors and windows will not fit and open and close smoothly.
Diverting water away from the structure is vital to avoid the risk of your foundations subsiding. You don't want your freestanding shed leaning to one side do you?
Always consult your local building permits authority to make sure you meet their building regulations.
It's worth getting a good set of plans to guide you as to which foundation will be suitable for your style of shed. Usually they will provide detailed drawings and instructions on how to do it correctly.
1. The Dirt Floor
If your building a pole shed structure then a dirt floor is suitable. It is important though that water drains away from your shed as you don't want your stored goods getting damp from pooling of water on the shed floor
2. Blocks and Gravel
If your shed has timber framed walls you will need to place it on a stable, level surface that is dry. Crushed gravel, about 6 inches deep, can be used if water pooling is not a problem but a safer option is to place the shed framing on blocks on top of the gravel. That way you will have the peace of mind knowing that your framing will not get damp and rot overtime.
3. A Concrete Slab
Not many of us would feel confident pouring our own concrete slab but you could hire someone to do it for you. There is no doubt that concrete makes a great dry hard wearing floor surface but it is a more expensive option.
4. Concrete Piers
Rather than pouring a slab you can just pour concrete piers set into the ground and place and attach your shed on them. This gives you a solid foundation and keeps your shed frame off the ground. Gravel can then be used to cover the floor area.
It is important that whatever foundation you choose, that the frame can sit level other wise your doors and windows will not fit and open and close smoothly.
Diverting water away from the structure is vital to avoid the risk of your foundations subsiding. You don't want your freestanding shed leaning to one side do you?
Always consult your local building permits authority to make sure you meet their building regulations.
It's worth getting a good set of plans to guide you as to which foundation will be suitable for your style of shed. Usually they will provide detailed drawings and instructions on how to do it correctly.