What Type Of Foundation Is Best For My Shed?
Everyone should own a backyard shed. Not only do can they significantly expand your storage space, but they can be transformed into a sanctuary; backyard offices and studios are perfect for creating a place you can escape to, whether it’s to focus and get work done or relax.
Before you go enjoying your newfound shed, you have to build it! Any good building — no matter how small — needs to begin with a solid foundation. Because sheds don’t need to bear as much weight as homes or office buildings, there are two main options available. Let’s take a look.
Why you should install a shed foundation
Installing a shed foundation is a vital step when setting up a shed for various reasons. Firstly, a solid foundation provides stability, ensuring the shed remains level and secure, even in the face of external forces like wind or shifting soil. This stability enhances the shed’s structural integrity, preventing potential damage or collapse over time.
A properly constructed foundation helps protect the shed from moisture damage by keeping it elevated off the ground. This reduces the risk of rot, mold, and decay, prolonging the lifespan of the shed.
A foundation aids in pest prevention, as it creates a barrier that deters rodents and insects from accessing the shed. By complying with building codes and regulations, installing a shed foundation not only ensures the shed’s longevity but also provides peace of mind, knowing that the structure is safely and securely supported.
Gravel Bed Shed Foundation
Gravel bed foundations are ideal for small or temporary structures. Sheds on skids are often placed on gravel bases for this reason; if they’re meant to be temporary, then so is their foundation.
This doesn’t mean that you can simply use the gravel as a floor — keeping the shed up and off of the groundworks to prevent rot and keep the entire structure level. You can use wooden formers, concrete blocks, or pavers to achieve this goal.
To make a gravel foundation, you’ll have to dig below the frost line, about four to six inches down. Simply fill the area in with gravel, and you’re pretty much done! Gravel beds are also ideal if you experience a lot of rainfall as they help drain excess water away from the structure.
Concrete Foundation
Concrete is used more than any other manmade material in the world, and for good reason. The strength of concrete slabs makes them the best option for your shed, garage, or pool house base; if you’re building a large or permanent structure, you’ll want a concrete foundation.
They provide stability, ensuring that your shed won’t settle or shift over time. If you plan on using your shed to store heavy equipment, concrete is the only option.
How Do I Choose?
The best foundation for your shed depends on what you’re going to be using it for. If you’re going to be spending hours out there every day, or want to spruce the place up by installing electricity, you’ll want to permanence and stability that only concrete can offer.
On the other hand, if you just need another space to store your tools, the simplicity of a gravel bed will be just fine.
Wooden sheds last between 15 and 20 years. As long as you’ve constructed a sturdy foundation, you’ll be able to enjoy your backyard shed (whether it’s filled with gardening tools or books) for decades to come.
