Sheds are only as good as their foundation. If you’d like your shed to last a long time, it’s best to invest in a solid base. A shed base helps level the ground and supports the weight of your shed.
Things to Note Before Choosing a Shed Base
Before you get started, here are a few things to consider:
- Check council and site requirements first. Different councils and wind regions can influence footing depth and engineering requirements.
- Choose the right location. Pick a spot that is naturally level, elevated enough to avoid water pooling, and is clear of tree roots and underground services.
- Clear and excavate the area. Remove grass, roots, and any organic material.
Different Types of Shed Bases
There are three main materials for a garden shed foundation that vary in terms of price, time frame, and quality.
Concrete
The most common and most durable option for permanent construction. It can withstand exposure to the elements with minimal maintenance cost. If you’re a homeowner and have decided your shed’s permanent spot, this is the best choice.
Two Types of Concrete Slabs
There are two options when it comes to choosing concrete bases for your shed.
Rebated Concrete Slab
We strongly recommend this one due to how it not only helps provide a strong, long-lasting foundation, it also helps with water ingress in the shed channels.
Here’s a sample diagram for our Gable 3m x 3m shed model:
Flat Concrete Slab
Just your basic concrete foundation. It’s simple, level, and does the job. If you’re looking to secure smaller sheds like a Bike Shed or Dog Kennel and are placing them in a covered area within your yard, a Flat Concrete Slab would do just fine.
Timber
Is your garden a work in progress? If you’re looking for a shed base that offers versatility that allows you to move around and make adjustments, a temporary timber base might be more your type.
Timber makes a good foundation for a shed and is relatively more affordable than concrete. With the addition of a sub-floor, timber flooring can be used for sites that are uneven or sloping.
We recommend using pressure-treated hardwood or timber because it has undergone a specialised chemical treatment that increases the wood’s longevity. It makes it resistant to moisture, mould, rot, fungi, and insect attacks.
Once set, a timber base would make a great foundation and is even a popular aesthetic choice for those who prefer a more rustic motif.
Paver Tiles
A paver shed base is made from paving blocks. It’s an affordable but handy solution to building a shed base. You can find them in a range of materials including concrete and brick.
Keep the following things in mind if you’re opting for paver tiles:
- The tiles need to fit together snug and tight
- You’ll need to install large pavers to strengthen the foundation’s core
- Need to have some weight and be able to have concrete fixings drilled in
Set the Foundation Right
Your shed base keeps your shed level, secure, and protected long-term. Whether you choose, concrete, timber, or pavers, the right shed base will depend on your site, your shed, and how you plan to use it.
Get the foundation right from the get-go and everything else will follow.
