Sheds have exploded in popularity over the past several decades. From being simple, DIY outbuildings, sheds have evolved to include workshops, offices, and even living space.
What do all these buildings have in common? They all need some type of shed foundation to support them!
Thankfully, the number of shed foundation options is beginning to catch up to the variety of sheds. Here are the 13 top shed foundations that you should consider for your outbuilding.
However, if you’re not interested in reading the full list, we’ll save you some time and give you our recommendation for the best shed foundation right away.
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
What is the best shed foundation?
A gravel pad (crushed stone) with a lumber perimeter is the best shed foundation option in most cases. We recommend gravel shed foundations because they provide a stable base for your shed to rest on and do a great job of draining water away from the bottom of your shed. Plus, they are relatively affordable and easy to construct when compared with other durable shed foundation options, such as concrete.
When constructed with the proper footers (often concrete shed piers), gravel pads can meet the shed foundation requirements of most townships or municipalities.
13 Shed Foundations
For those wanting to compare all their shed foundation options, this list has every choice you need to consider!
| Foundation | Cost (Materials + Labor) | Frost-proof? | Sloped sites? | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Skid Foundation | $ | No | No | Not technically a foundation. |
| Metal Foundation Kit | $$ | No | No | Available for only specific sheds. |
| Metal Jacks | $$ | No | Small slope | Relatively new option; for small sheds only. |
| Concrete Blocks | $$ | No | Small slope | Popular option; not great for durability. |
| Pavers | $$$ | No | No | Good for small sheds on flat site. |
| Plastic Grid (Permeable Pavers) | $$$ | No | No | Relatively new option; good for flat sites. |
| Deck Blocks | $$$ | No | Small slope | Usually combined with post-and-beam. |
| Gravel (Crushed Stone) Pad | $$$ | With modification | Yes | Best all-around option. |
| Screw Piles | $$$ | Yes | Yes | Requires special equipment for install. |
| Post-and-Beam | $$$ | With modification | Yes | Popular option; raises shed height. |
| Concrete Piers | $$$ | Yes | Yes | Simple frost-proof option. |
| Concrete Slab (floating) | $$$$ | With modification | Yes | Durable, but labor intensive and expensive. |
| Concrete Foundation w/ Footers | $$$$$ | Yes | Yes | Overkill except for garages and very large buildings. |
1. Skid Foundation
When most people talk about building a shed with a skid foundation, they mean placing the shed floor joists directly on a series of pressure-treated wooden skids or “runners”. Technically, the skids are part of the shed itself, meaning this is less of a “shed foundation” than a part of the shed sub-structure. Either way, we’re adding it here since it’s a “foundation” to many people.
Virtually all prefabricated sheds (those delivered fully constructed) are built on a base of skids. It’s never recommended to place shed skids or any type of fully wood shed foundation directly on the ground; the bottom of the shed should always be placed on a secondary base, such as gravel or concrete.
Pros
- Relatively cheap.
- Easy to install.
- Included by default with most prefabricated sheds.
Cons
- Shed skids do not technically constitute a “foundation”.
- Shed skid foundations require additional foundation material, such as gravel.
- Placing skids directly on the soil can result in sinking or rotting over time.
How to Build a Skid Shed Foundation
Video Guide:
Written Guide:
https://outdoorstorageoptions.com/how-to-build-your-shed-floor-on-skids/
2. Metal Kit Foundation
Metal foundation kits are available from several specific shed companies. In general, metal foundation kits only work with sheds from the same manufacturer. Usually, these are the “budget” shed brands (often sold as kits themselves) found at major online retailers and home improvement stores.
Metal foundation kits are popular due to their low price and simple design. However, the low price comes at a cost in terms of material quality. Reviewers of some shed foundation kits claim that they were flimsy and easily damaged. In addition, most shed foundation kits require the shed site to be completely level prior to installation.
Aside from any potential quality concerns, metal foundation kits are still only an option for a small subset of sheds. If your site is off-level, you will definitely want to choose an alternate shed pad that can make your structure level and provide a solid base.
Pros
- Cheap.
- Simple design.
Cons
- Only available as an add-on for specific shed brands and models.
- Many designs have quality and durability issues.
- Can’t be installed on sloped sites.
- Not frost-proof.
- Can sink over time if the metal kit frame is placed directly on a lawn or other soil.
How to Build a Metal Shed Foundation Kit
Video Guide:
Written Guide:
https://www.shelterlogic.com/arrow-sheds/maintenance-assembly/foundation-anchoring
3. Metal Jacks
Metal jack shed foundations are a very new entry to the shed foundation market. Their popularity is driven by their extremely easy installation: they can be installed with just a drill, screwdriver, and adjustable wrench or pliers. Metal shed foundation jacks offer built-in leveling of up to 6”, which is useful on sites with a slight grade.
Metal jacks should not be used as foundations for large sheds or any shed that is delivered fully constructed. They will likely work best for sheds that are 6×8 or smaller and are built on-site. Additionally, they are not a frost-proof foundation option.
Pros
- Metal jack shed foundations are extremely easy to install.
- Metal jack shed foundations are a good option for small DIY sheds.
Cons
- Metal jack shed foundations are not suitable for large or prefabricated sheds.
- Metal jack shed foundations can’t be used on sites more than 6” off level.
- Metal jacks are not a frost-proof shed foundation option.
How to Build a Metal Jack Shed Foundation
Video Guide:
Written Guide:
https://shedbasekits.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/QuickJack-Pro-Installation-Guide-2.pdf
4. Concrete Blocks
Concrete blocks are one of the most popular shed foundations in the world. Concrete blocks are often included as the default shed base at delivery by many prefab shed companies (although many shed manufacturers now recommend or require gravel shed foundations). Concrete block shed foundations are popular because they are cheap, easy to install, and easy to use for leveling sheds on slopes.
However, concrete blocks don’t support all parts of the bottom of the shed equally. Over time, this can adversely affect the structural integrity of the shed, allowing for sagging floors or binding doors/windows. We don’t recommend putting your building on shed foundation blocks; this article offers more details.
Pros
- Cheap.
- Easy to install, including on a slope.
Cons
- Concrete blocks don’t support all parts of the shed structure equally.
- Raising a shed on concrete blocks can make door access more difficult.
- Concrete blocks can result in some precarious shed placements (like this), especially on slopes.
- Concrete blocks are generally not considered a suitable foundation for sheds in frost-prone areas.
- Makes shed anchoring difficult.
- Concrete block foundations may void the warranties of some prefabricated sheds (check with manufacturer).
How to Build a Concrete Block Shed Foundation
Video Guide:
Written Guide:
https://homeguides.sfgate.com/put-small-shed-concrete-blocks-96726.html
5. Pavers
Paver shed foundations are popular because of their simplicity and relative affordability; they are one of the most economical shed foundations on this list.
Paver foundations are quite easy to install, especially for DIYers. In general, paver foundations are best for small sheds (under 8’ in any direction) that include some type of built-in floor.
Pros
- The simple concept of a paver foundation makes installation easy.
- Pavers support all parts of the shed structure equally.
- One of the most cost-effective shed foundations available.
Cons
- Paver shed foundations can’t be easily installed on sloped sites.
- May not meet the frost-proofing requirements of some locations.
- Pavers may begin to shift or sink over time, affecting the durability of the shed itself.
How to Build a Paver Shed Foundation
Video Guide:
Written Guide:
https://www.twofeetfirst.net/installing-paver-foundation
6. Plastic Grid (Permeable Pavers)
Plastic shed foundations are a relatively new shed base option. Over the past few years, brands like TRUEGRID®, Standartpark®, and Gravalock® have developed a number of “permeable paver” products. While most of these materials were originally designed for use in parking lot applications, DIYers soon discovered that they worked well as an affordable shed base.
Plastic grid shed foundations function as somewhat of a hybrid between a paver foundation and a gravel foundation. The plastic grid can be quickly snapped into place like a paver system, but gravel is required to complete the base. Essentially, the plastic grid provides the structural strength for the shed foundation, while the added gravel gives even support across the entire pad and allows water to drain through.
The amount of plastic used in this type of shed foundation may be a negative for some folks. Thankfully, most plastic shed foundation manufacturers use recycled materials, but it does mean that more plastic will be added to your backyard.
Pros
- Plastic shed foundations are simple to install.
- Great drainage means the bottom of your shed will be protected from rot and moisture damage.
- Supports all parts of the shed structure equally.
- Cheaper than concrete.
Cons
- Plastic shed foundations can’t be easily installed on sloped sites.
- May not meet the frost-proofing requirements of some locations.
- Requires purchase of both plastic grid and gravel separately.
- Made from plastic.
How to Build a Plastic Grid Shed Foundation
Video Guide:
Written Guide:
https://www.thegardenrange.co.uk/blog/garden-base/build-plastic-shed-base
7. Deck Blocks
Deck blocks are trapezoidal blocks, usually made from concrete, with tops designed to support 4×4 posts or 2×6 (or 2×8) joists. They have a larger footprint than typical concrete blocks, making them less prone to sinking. Deck blocks are often used to build a modified post-and-beam shed foundation. Instead of burying posts in the ground, they are simply placed on top of the deck blocks, which eliminates the digging otherwise needed.
Pros
- Relatively cheap.
- Easy to install.
- Gives slightly more support than regular concrete blocks.
Cons
- Deck blocks don’t support all parts of the shed structure equally.
- Deck blocks are difficult or impossible to use with pre-built sheds.
- Raising a shed on deck blocks can make door access more difficult.
- Deck blocks are generally not considered a suitable foundation for sheds in frost-prone areas.
- Makes shed anchoring difficult.
How to Build a Deck Block Shed Foundation
Video Guide:
Written Guide:
https://plasticinehouse.com/building-shed-base-with-deck-blocks
8. Gravel (Crushed Stone) Pad
As mentioned above, gravel shed foundations are one of the best overall shed foundation options. Technically, these foundations are built with crushed stone (usually limestone) and not actual gravel. Gravel shed foundations are versatile, economical, and durable.
One of the largest strengths of gravel shed foundations is their flexibility with sloped sites. By using a “dig-out” or a “build-up” (or a combination of the two), gravel foundations can be customized to place the door of the shed near ground level, whether it’s on the uphill or downhill side of a slope.
You can install your own gravel shed foundation or hire a professional shed foundation contractor to install it for you.
Pros
- Great drainage means the bottom of your shed will be protected from rot and moisture damage.
- Compacted crushed stone supports all parts of the shed structure equally.
- Can be installed on sloped sites.
- Leaves shed doors at ground level for access by wheeled equipment.
- Cost is much lower than concrete.
Cons
- May require the addition of concrete footers to meet frost protection requirements in some locations.
- More expensive than basic foundations like pavers.
How to Build a Gravel Shed Foundation
Video Guide:
Written Guide:
https://www.siteprep.com/how-to-install-a-gravel-shed-foundation
9. Screw Piles
Screw piles (or “helical piers”) are a relatively new shed foundation option. Although the concept has been around since the early 1800s, screw piles have only been widely used in residential construction since the 1990s, becoming popular with deck builders in particular.
The general concept of screw pile shed foundations is simple: large metal screws (the “piles” or “piers”) are rotated into the ground to the desired depth, brackets are attached to the top, and the shed skids are fastened to the brackets. In some cases, screw piles may be installed by hand using leverage bars to reach the necessary torque. In other cases, such as a rocky site, power equipment is required. Power piling equipment may be either handheld or attached to an excavator.
In many ways, screw pile shed foundations are similar to concrete piers or post-and-beam shed foundations. They are popular on sloped sites since each pier can be set to a different height to level the building; added hardware may allow additional leveling after the pile is placed as well. When placed at the correct depth, screw piles are also considered frost-proof. The work required to install helical piles is significantly less than pouring concrete footers, although time savings can be offset by the cost of the screw piles.
Pros
- Screw pile shed foundations can be simpler to install than concrete piers in some cases.
- Screw pile shed foundations can be installed on sloped sites.
- Easy to anchor a shed to the tops of the piles.
Cons
- Screw pile shed foundations can raise buildings to an inconvenient height.
- The screw piles themselves are not cheap and may require power equipment to install.
- Not a common foundation for prefabricated sheds delivered fully constructed.
- Does not support all parts of the shed equally.
- May void some prefabricated shed manufacturers’ warranties.
How to Build a Screw Pile Shed Foundation
Video Guide:
Written Guide:
https://www.ukhelix.com/how-to-build-an-easy-fast-and-strong-shed-base-with-diy-screw-piles
10. Post-and-Beam
Post-and-beam shed foundations (or “timber frame”) are another popular method of supporting sheds. The nature of their construction makes post-and-beam foundations a good option for anyone with carpentry or deck building skills, but they can be tricky for less experienced builders.
Post-and-beam shed foundations can be supported with posts resting on deck blocks, with posts in the bare ground, or with posts in/on poured concrete footers. The final option is preferred in frost-prone locations.
One major downside of post-and-beam shed foundations is the height to which it raises the shed. A post-and-beam foundation is NOT the best option if you plan to store heavy or wheeled equipment in your shed.
Pros
- Post-and-beam shed foundations are a cheaper option than concrete.
- Post-and-beam shed foundations can be installed on sloped sites.
- Easy to anchor a shed to the posts.
Cons
- Post-and-beam shed foundations raise buildings to an inconvenient height.
- Post-and-beam foundations rely on posts in the ground, which risk deteriorating over time.
- Not a common foundation for prefabricated sheds delivered fully constructed.
- May void some prefabricated shed manufacturers’ warranties.
How to Build a Post-and-Beam Shed Foundation
Video Guide:
Written Guide:
https://www.oneprojectcloser.com/how-to-build-a-post-beam-shed-foundation-on-a-slope
11. Concrete Piers
Concrete pier shed foundations are a popular option because they provide the frost-proofing benefits of a concrete pad while costing significantly less. Concrete piers can be used in tandem with a gravel shed foundation, as part of a post-and-beam shed foundation, or as a standalone shed foundation.
Concrete piers are one way to meet the footer requirements imposed by some municipalities. Local codes often require buildings over a certain square footage to have frost-proof footings; for example, the town of Huntingdon, NY requires footings on all sheds over 120 square feet.
Concrete piers also allow you to level a shed on a slope by using a system such as Sonotube®. It’s also possible to include anchoring hardware when pouring the piers, solving another common shed foundation problem.
Pros
- Concrete pier shed foundations meet most local code requirements for shed footers.
- Concrete pier foundations can be installed on sloped sites.
- Pier shed foundations simplify shed anchoring.
- Less expensive than a full concrete shed foundation.
Cons
- More expensive than some foundation options.
- More labor-intensive to DIY than other shed foundations, like gravel.
- May not support all parts of the shed equally.
How to Build a Concrete Pier Shed Foundation
Video Guide:
Written Guide:
12. Concrete Slab (floating)
Concrete slabs are another super-popular shed foundation option. They are a favorite for builders who prioritize the durability and longevity of their structures. A “floating” concrete slab (without footers) is an option in frost-free locales or where code does not call for a “frost-proof” foundation.
There are really only two major reasons NOT to install a concrete shed foundation.
For one, concrete is the most expensive shed foundation option. A floating concrete foundation costs approximately 3x what a gravel shed foundation costs.
Secondly, concrete foundations do not drain as well as some other shed foundations, particularly gravel shed foundations. If your shed has wooden flooring, joists, and skids (like most prefabricated sheds do), a concrete pad can cause rainwater to puddle around the base of your shed. This increases the chances of rot or other deterioration. Drainage is not an issue if your shed is the same size as the concrete pad and is built with the concrete pad as the floor.
This article gives a more detailed comparison of gravel and concrete shed foundations.
Pros
- Concrete shed foundations are the most durable option.
- Concrete shed foundations can be installed on sloped sites, although this can be extra expensive due to the additional materials required.
- A concrete shed foundation equally supports all parts of the shed.
- Concrete shed foundations simplify shed anchoring.
Cons
- Concrete shed foundations are the most expensive shed foundation option.
- Concrete slabs are more labor-intensive to DIY than other shed foundations, like gravel.
How to Build a Concrete Slab Shed Foundation
Video Guide:
Written Guide:
https://www.oneprojectcloser.com/pouring-concrete-slab-shed-base
13. Concrete Foundation w/ Footers (monolithic or block)
A concrete foundation with footers is the most frost-resistant and durable shed foundation available. Concrete foundations with footers fall into two general categories: monolithic concrete foundations and concrete block foundations.
For a monolithic foundation, the footers and the pad (or “flatwork”) are poured at the same time as one continuous body of concrete. Monolithic foundations are best for cases where the site is within 16” of level.
For a concrete block foundation, the foundation is constructed in three separate phases: footers, block walls, and pad (or “flatwork”). The footer is generally poured at a frost-proof depth (which varies by location) and is often 16” to 24” wide. After the footer cures, block walls are laid on top of it up to the final grade of the foundation. Finally, a flat concrete pad, usually at least 4” thick, is poured. This pad will serve as the garage or shed floor.
In general, a gravel pad combined with concrete shed foundation piers will satisfy the frost proofing and footer requirements for shed foundations in most locales. However, a concrete foundation with footers may be required for the largest sheds and outbuildings, such as garages or two-story sheds. We also recommend concrete foundations if your building is being built with commercial intent, whether that is as a small mechanic shop, storage area, or even as a snack and coffee stand. With a concrete foundation, your building will be better prepared to handle the high and heavy commercial use.
Pros
- Concrete foundations with footers are the most durable and best weight-bearing shed foundations for large buildings.
Cons
- Extremely expensive.
- Concrete shed foundations with footers are overkill for all but the largest buildings.
How to Build a Concrete Shed Foundation with Footers
Video Guide:
Written Guide:
https://www.oneprojectcloser.com/how-to-build-a-concrete-block-foundation
On-Grade vs Frost-Proof Shed Foundations
One of the key decisions when choosing a shed foundation is whether you will install an “on-grade” or a “frost-proof” foundation, or a combination of both. (We also have a complete guide to shed footings here.)
On-Grade Shed Foundations
On-grade shed foundations (also known as “floating”, “temporary”, or “surface” foundations) refer to any shed foundation that is built on the ground surface or above the frost depth of the local area.
On-grade shed foundations include:
- Skid foundations
- Metal foundation kits
- Metal jacks
- Concrete blocks
- Pavers
- Plastic grids
- Deck blocks
- Gravel pads
- Post-and-beam (without footers)
- Concrete slab (floating)
On-grade foundations are generally cheaper and easier to install than frost-proof foundations.
Frost-Proof Shed Foundations
Frost-proof shed foundations (also known as “below-grade” or “permanent” foundations) refer to any shed foundation that is built to extend below the local frost depth and create a more durable shed base.
Frost-proof shed foundations include:
- Screw piles
- Concrete piers
- Concrete foundations w/footers
Frost-proof shed foundations are required by some local municipalities. They are generally more expensive and labor-intensive to install than on-grade foundations, but they provide a more permanent foundation in the long run.
Combination Shed Foundations
Several of the shed foundations listed above can fall into either the on-grade or the frost-proof category, depending on how they are installed.
Some popular combination shed foundations include:
- Gravel pads with concrete shed pier footers – We often install gravel shed foundations with concrete piers to meet local shed footer and anchoring requirements. This combination provides all the drainage benefits of a gravel pad, with the durability of concrete footers.
- Post-and-beam with concrete footers – If posts are placed directly in the ground, the post-and-beam foundation would be considered “on-grade”. If the posts are placed on or in concrete footers at a frost-proof depth, the post-and-beam foundation would be considered “frost-proof”.
How to Choose Between an On-Grade and a Frost-Proof Shed Foundation
There are a couple of key factors to consider when choosing whether to go with an on-grade or a frost-proof foundation.
Local regulations
Many municipalities don’t even leave the shed foundation choice up to you! Local code often spells out exactly where you may and may not place your shed, as well as suitable foundation options, required footer depths, and more.
Shed foundation requirements tend to vary based on the size of the building, the intended use (stricter codes often apply for habitable buildings), and the local climate.
Be sure to check local requirements before making your final shed foundation choice!
Frost depth/frost-heave
If the ground in your local area freezes to a depth of more than a few inches during the winter, it’s good to at least consider a frost-proof foundation. This is most crucial in areas that are prone to frost heave, particularly areas with a high percentage of silty or sandy soil. There are some useful maps for checking average state frost depths here and here; you can also check the current frost depth here.
Building size
Even if your local government doesn’t require a specific shed foundation based on size, you’ll want to consider it as a factor. Small sheds (usually less than 6×8) can be safely placed on-grade. However, larger buildings may need a more durable base to keep them well supported as they age. Besides frost-proof footers, a well-built, compacted gravel pad is another good option for large buildings since it evenly supports all parts of the shed structure.
Building use
Some municipalities have a completely different set of foundation requirements for buildings that will be used as residences or any other habitable use, such as prefab cabins. Regardless of local code, it still makes sense that a “she shed” or workshop should have a more durable foundation than a shed for wood or garden tool storage.
Conclusion – 3 Ways to Choose A Shed Foundation
Congratulations if you made it this far! There’s a lot to consider, but it’s important not to overcomplicate the shed foundation choice. We’ve found gravel pads to be the best shed foundation in most cases, but you’ll want to make that calculation yourself based on your specific site.
1. Choose Your Own Shed Foundation
If you decide to build your own shed or shed foundation, be sure to consider the trifecta of durability, affordability, and ease of installation. Choose the shed foundation that scores the highest in all three categories based on your situation.
2. Let Your Shed Manufacturer Recommend a Shed Foundation
If you’re buying a prefabricated shed, ask the manufacturer what they recommend or require, especially if it affects the shed’s warranty. Some shed companies can even take care of installing the foundation themselves.
3. Let a Site Prep Company Recommend a Shed Foundation
Here at Site Prep, we specialize in installing shed foundations! We work directly with homeowners, as well as with many major shed manufacturers who refer their customers to us. If you’re within our service area, we’d be happy to give you a free estimate and shed foundation recommendation based on photos of your site. Or, if you have questions regarding garage foundation costs, read our article.
Below are some shed foundation examples that we’ve recently constructed. Most of them are gravel, concrete pier, or concrete slab shed foundations. We hope they’re helpful as you prepare for your own foundation.
Happy shed planning!
Shed Foundation Examples
I want to install a 6 x 3 vertical storage shed, probably plastic resin type either a Keter or Suncast. The area where the shed will go slopes from left to right perhaps a 12 inch falloff over the 6 ft width. I was thinking of putting down four 30 inch spikes as anchors, the type that Home Depot sells that have a metal bracket attached to the top so can drop in a 4 x 4 into the bracket. However I am not sure what type of platform to attach to the four posts. I was thinking just a flat redwood platform but then I don’t know how water would escape if it seeps under the shed between the wood and the plastic floor. Any suggestions ?
Hi Doug,
We don’t have experience with this type of foundation specifically, so it’s hard for us to say. You could try adding some kind of metal drip edge around your wooden base, then adding a bead of caulk after the shed is in place. Again, it’s not something we have specific experience with!
I want to build a 80sqft shed in my backyard in Long Island, NY. the frost line is 40″. what is my best on grade foundation option if I don’t want to dig below the frostline. my main concern is sinking overtime.
Hi Hussain,
Based on your description we would recommend a gravel shed foundation. We have installed many of them in Long Island.
I bought a property that had a 10×12 vinyl sided shed with 2×4 framing on 4×4 skids. It was originally on concrete blocks that had shifted and settled. We laid a concrete slab and moved the shed onto that. I want to skirt the bottom to keep out critters. I’ve flashed the lower part and applied a solid pvc material to enclose the bottom. Rainwater still has potential to run under through slight gaps. I’m thinking or caulking along the concrete to seal. My question is, will I need to install vents in the skirting? I live in the coastal NC area where we rarely see snow and the summers are hot.
Hi Melissa,
We work mostly in the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic regions (for now), so it’s hard for us to comment on local environmental concerns in NC. It will probably be hard to keep 100% of water from under the shed if it’s on concrete, but the caulk idea is worth a try. Ideally, you’d have a drain slot cut in the concrete so that no water puddles on it. Temporary moisture right after a rain is less of an issue…it’s the puddles you want to avoid. Good luck!
Great article and timely too. I am a few weeks away from buildin my own 10×10 shed and have gnawing on thus very topic since the outset. I live in Iowa and am subject to significant wind from time to time. My budget prevents a full slab & footing foundation and t think the best compromise is sunken piers with hurricane grade framing connectors. Any ideas you can share?
Hi Karl,
Here’s an article that goes into detail on shed foundation piers. Hope that helps!
What type of foundation would you recommend for small resin shed (like 6×4 ft ir less) to be installed on top of artificial grass? Looking for an option that would not require to remove the turf and would do the less damage. Also that I can buy from Florida if sold online. Thank you!
This article might help: https://new.siteprep.com/do-you-need-a-foundation-for-a-shed/
Hi Site Prep,
Thanks for all of the great details. I am going to follow your recommendation and build a 10×20 gravel pad for my DIY shed. Regarding the perimeter 4x6s – how do you tie them together for butt joints along the length? The longest 4x6s I can get in my area are 12 foot. The grade is flat, so I will only need one layer and cannot rely on the layers above to tie them together. I am leaning towards a Half-Lap joint, but wanted to get the expert opinion!
Hey Kyle! This article might help you out with that question: https://new.siteprep.com/how-to-install-a-gravel-shed-foundation/
I love your blog.. very nice colors & theme. Did you create this website yourself or did you hire someone to do it for you?
Plz reply as I’m looking to design my own blog and would like to know where u got this from.
thank you
We are partnered with a digital marketing agency, who helped build out our website and blog.
Hi. I’m looking to install an 8’x10’ vinyl or wood shed. What foundation would work best? I’m from Long Island, NY and the grass backyard is pretty level. Thanks!
I would like a Bing post. I’m getting a 10 x 15 shed. What is your quote been post covert
We have a back yard with a small slope (5%) and a lot of water from surrounding houses that pours through our yard into the neighbors (looks like a small brook or creek during very heavy rain). I need to put a shed in one specific area of the yard – what’s my best option to allow the water to rush under the shed so it doesn’t dam up the yard? I think if it’s just up 2 inches above the ground that’s enough for the water to easily flow under (there are some gaps under the fence and those allow it to flow nicely).
We would recommend a gravel foundation. Here’s an article on how you can do that: https://new.siteprep.com/how-to-install-a-gravel-shed-foundation/
Since a foundation estimate depends on a lot of factors such as amount of slope, obstruction removal, site accessibility, etc., it’s difficult to give you a pinpoint estimate. But you can get a free quote here: https://new.siteprep.com/get-quote/
Feel free to reach out to us at (717) 799-7311 and maybe we can discuss it a bit more!
I am looking at building a sauna 13 x 8 with a small covered deck 7 x8 on the end( total structure 20×8) and there is a little slope I have to deal with. I am debating between the gravel foundation and Shed foundation piers. Thoughts? Thanks for your help.
Thanks for the article great information. I do have a question, my friend building a 16×32 storage shed on a second property to store his riding mower and when time comes to store building materials for construction of new house in Northern Tennessee would the gravel foundation be a good choice for this size of building?
Hi Michael, in order to assist you better, we will need more detailed information. Please feel free to reach out to us using the provided link.
Hi Michael, in order to assist you better, we will need more detailed information. Please feel free to reach out to us using the provided link.
Hi Seth, in order to assist you better, we will need more detailed information. Please feel free to reach out to us using the provided link. https://new.siteprep.com/get-quote/
I found the article on shed foundations to be incredibly informative! It covers a wide range of options and provides helpful pros and cons for each. The step-by-step instructions and visuals make it easy to understand. Thanks for sharing such valuable information!
Hi, this is quite useful. I’m building an 8 X 4 Arrow shed (for bikes) on my ashfault driveway which slopes down slightly. What type of base would suggest, given I would prefer to have the shed as close to the ground as possible, and would prefer not to pour concrete on top of my driveway. [Link deleted]
Hi there, I’m building a 10X4 arrow shed on a slightly sloped asphalt driveway – waht type of base would be appropriate?
Thank you guys.
Hi Aaron, we may need some more information in order to better assist you. Please feel free to reach out to us anytime, so we can discuss the work in more detail. Thank you. https://new.siteprep.com/get-quote/
Hi Aaron, I’d recommend installing our standard three-quarter clean stone but before you do that you should remove the asphalt so that it can drain properly.
I put in a 9’x 9′ gravel foundation for an 8′ x 8′ resin shed. Pro I hired to assemble shed said pad doesn’t work because shed needs to be attached to the foundation. How do I fix problem so shed can be attached without removing all gravel and starting over?
This article may help: https://new.siteprep.com/how-to-secure-your-shed-into-gravel/