Do You Need a Foundation For a Shed?

It’s time to add a unique structure to your yard and solve the storage problem. A shed is a vital structure in our homes. It secures extra tools that cannot fit in the garage; it can also be a living room or office.

But do you need a foundation for a shed? This article gives you great information about all you need to know about shed foundation and how to set up a shed. So, read to the end.

What is a Shed Foundation?

The foundation is the portion of the shed built underground to support the whole structure. Other than this key function, a good foundation should;

• Keep off the rainwater from getting into the shed.
• Act as a barrier between the shed and the soil vapor.

On the other hand, the type, size, and the intended purpose of the shed may determine the type of foundation to lay.

Do you Need a Foundation for a Shed?

Like a romantic relationship, a shed needs a good foundation. You may come across friends who advise that a shed of less than 6×8 or 8×8 doesn’t require a foundation. But what if the rainwater or wind sweeps it away?

If you are a new homeowner, embrace learning to make a foundation for a shed. Don’t be convinced to take a shortcut and face trouble in the future.

It may be good to learn that you will cut the building costs, but when the shed collapses or the authorities fine you, it won’t be a walk in the park.

You also risk setting a foundation and rebuilding the shed, which can be costly.

Factors that Determine the Type of Foundation to Build for the Shed

Some factors may determine if you will invest much or little in your shed foundation. Take a look;

1. The Shed Size

A shed with a high weight requires a foundation because it can sink on the side if rainwater floods around it.

It’s recommendable to plan on investing in a good foundation if your shed exceeds 500lbs.

First, it will save you the rebuilding costs in case it collapses. Second, it will protect your tools from damage. And finally, it will save humans and animals from accidents during rainy or windy seasons.

2. The Intended Purpose of the Shed

You need a firm foundation if you plan to park heavy machines like farm tractors or your car in the shed.

As such, it’s recommendable to build a concrete foundation and have it inspected by a professional.

On the other hand, a shed that would store machines with less weight like lawnmowers and motorbikes can be made of gravel.

Gravel forms an easy shed foundation that drains water quickly from the top to the soil.

See also: Ideas to cover bottom of shed

3. Sheds With Built-in Floors

Some shed kits have sheds that come with built-in floors. However, these floors are very weak to sit on bare ground.

So, that shouldn’t be an excuse to exclude the foundation when doing the costing. If you want a safe and firm structure for your activities, it’s good to set it on a fine gravel foundation.

Gravel shed foundations drain water easily from the top, protecting the built-in floor from damage.

4. Shed Kits Without a Floor

You need to set a concrete foundation for shed kits without a built-in floor. A concrete foundation will prevent soil moisture and rainwater from flooding the shed.

5. Existing Pavement

Some homes have concrete pavement or slabs that can firmly hold a shed. Unless you have special needs to add some concrete to the existing pavement, you don’t need to spend much to set up your shed.

However, you can set some blocks around as raisers to prevent flooding.

Best Foundation Types for Sheds

1. Concrete

Concrete is one of the best foundations for larger sheds. It’s also recommendable to build a concrete shed if you have a slopy yard. It will hold the soil together and resist groundwater.

2. Gravel

Gravel is the best for areas with drainage issues. It easily allows water to drain. Additionally, it’s cheap to purchase and maintain.

See also: Cheap shed foundation options

3. Dirt

Instead of building a shed without a foundation, opt for dirt. However, it would be best to put some blocks around as a scaping. Then, compact the soil and set your shed.

However, you should raise the soil to around 6 inches because it can easily absorb moisture.

4. Tarmac

Tarmac is another great foundation material that can remain firm for years. The only challenge you may face with the tarmac foundation is cracking.

Usually, if you drill the anchor bolts on the tarmac, it cracks easily, and the soil moisture may find a way into the shed.

5. Timbers

When laid to form a foundation, timbers have an aesthetic look, but you have to treat them regularly. Unfortunately, the underneath surface may be hard to reach.

In the end, they may rot due to moisture.

How to keep shed cool

6. Patio Slabs

If you have some remaining patio slabs, you can arrange them as a foundation for your shed. The slabs are very firm if professionally installed.

All foundations are good, depending on the shed’s intended purpose.

See also: How do you anchor down a shed to pavers?

FAQs About Foundation for a Shed?

How to hide a metal shed

Do you need a foundation for a shed? All sheds need foundations to remain firm and last longer.