How To Choose The Right Shed Foundation

The Foundation - The First Step in Constructing a Shed

Laying a foundation is the first and most important step in constructing a storage shed. No matter what type of shed you're planning to build, it is essential to select a shed foundation that holds up under the weight of the structure and prevents warping, cracking, and other types of damage caused by moisture.

What Kind of Foundation Should You Have?

Your choice should be based on two factors - the construction of the shed you want to build and your budget.

In addition to the type of construction, you'll need to know how you are going to use your shed. If you want to build a shed that is meant for light storage such as garden tools it won't require a strong concrete foundation. On the other hand, if you're planning to build something that is meant for storing heavy equipment, you cannot construct it on a timber foundation.

Dirt Floor

A simple pole style barn shed, for example, can be built on a dirt floor foundation. This type of shed foundation, however, is not the right choice if your shed's walls need to be framed.

Crushed Gravel

A crushed gravel foundation is a good choice if the dirt floor is dry and water drainage is not a problem. This type of floor consists of a layer or pea gravel approximately six inches thick and works well for smaller sheds. It is advisable to place blocks on the gravel for additional support and stability.

Timber

A timber frame foundation, built of pressure treated wood, is also a good choice for a storage shed. The flooring space within the frame can be filled with stone slabs, slate slabs, or gravel. Or, more simply, a timber floor can be attached to the frame. This type of shed foundation is very easy to install. It is ideal for small to medium sheds that do not need a large concrete base.

Plastic

A series of grids made with special plastic is one more way of building your foundation and is becoming increasingly popular. Pea gravel is use to fill the area within the grids. This type of foundation is durable and very easy to install.

Concrete

A concrete floor is the strongest and most durable floor you can build. Depending on your preference, you can go with concrete block, slabs, or piers.

Concrete piers can be a great choice if the surface is uneven or sloped. Moreover, a pier foundation is not a permanent structure. So, if you ever need to relocate your shed, the foundation can be disassembled and moved to another place easily. It is very easy to install and less expensive than laying a concrete slab base.

A concrete slab based shed foundation is a good choice for a large shed that will be used as a workshop or to store vehicles. Laying a concrete slab base, however, is a task that requires some special skills. If you cannot do it yourself, you might have to hire professionals, which will add to your overall cost.

One other choice you have is a concrete block foundation. It is also strong and durable making it ideal for heavy equipment. When compared to a slab base, it is easier to install and less expensive as well.

Choosing the Right Foundation

Among the types of foundations that we have discussed the concrete floor is the most expensive whereas the gravel or dirt floor is the least expensive. Similarly, installing concrete slabs takes a lot of time and effort whereas plastic grids or timber frames can be installed quickly and easily. No matter what type of foundation you choose, make sure it is laid in a place where water does not pool.