Posted by maman | Posted in How to Build a Garden Shed | Posted on 25-04-2011
Tags: Building a garden shed, concrete foundations, garden shed, Shed foundations, Wood foundations
Work your way to the top, says it all when you are building your sheds foundations. It is essential that your shed, what ever it’s planned size, be a level and stable structure. In the coming years it will ensure that, your shed will be protected from the elements.Several common foundations are frequently used, varying from timber skids to concrete pads.
The choice of foundation depends on the style of the shed and the site on which it is built. Consider your climate and its effect on the site. It is it going to be affected by freezing winters, very wet weather including runoff water from an adjoining site. Your local council would need to be consulted, as some of the foundations such as concrete would be considered as permanent structures, which may in some cases affected property values and taxes.
The simplest form of foundation is the wooden skids. They are likely to be two pieces or more of a treated timber on a gravel base. You may like to make angles at each end , making it easier to shift to another position.
Initially, prepare your site by digging or removing the topsoil to a depth of approximately 4 inches. You may like to make this site a little longer and wider than the plans for your shed. Fill this with gravel, level and flatten.Cut the skids, set them in place, and ensure that they are level both on the gravel and with each other.
Concrete blocks are another method and relatively easy and inexpensive. It is considered best to use solid Concrete blocks. Using a similar method to the skids, the area is dug out and prepared. At all, times whatever method is used, be sure your measurements are correct.
Concrete foundation piers are made from cardboard tubes, which are available from building or hardware suppliers. Again, site preparation is probably the most important aspect of your shed.
Finally, the concrete slab that is familiar to us all. You would definitely need to check with your local council building department in case they require specific building specifications, such as type of concrete.
For large projects, you would probably order ready mix concrete from one of the commercial companies. If you are unsure of the quantity that you will need to take the measurements of the width, length, and depth to the company and they will work it out for you.
Happy concreting!
