Alexei Volkov
Building a plastic shed is a fun DIY project that can help you create more space for your tools and other equipment. While it is possible to build a plastic shed by yourself, it is recommended to have at least one other person to help with the assembly, especially when installing doors and the shed roof. The first step is to choose a suitable area for your shed, ensuring the ground is level and can support the weight of the shed. You will then need to prepare the ground by removing any vegetation and levelling it out. After gathering the necessary materials, you can start assembling the shed by laying the floor first and then adding the side panels. Finally, you will need to add the doors, handles, hinges, latches, gables, roof bracing, and the roof.
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What You'll Learn
Choosing the right location
First, ensure that the ground beneath the shed is strong enough to support the weight of both the base and the shed. Avoid soft or boggy areas, and choose a level surface. If your desired location has a slope, you may need to level the ground by digging out a section of the lawn or using gravel to create a flat surface. It's a good idea to use a set square or spirit level to ensure the ground is level.
Next, consider access to the site. Choose a location where you work without obstruction from hedges or trees, and ensure you have good access all around the shed. This will make it easier to assemble the shed and may be necessary for ongoing maintenance.
Additionally, think about the surrounding environment. If you live in an area with extreme weather conditions, such as high winds or hurricanes, consider a location that provides some shelter. On the other hand, if you live in a hot climate, find a spot that offers shade to prevent the plastic panels from expanding in the sun, which can make them difficult to fit.
Finally, check for any local building codes or regulations. In some areas, creating an "impermeable base" may require an evaluation of water runoff and submission of plans to local authorities. It's important to ensure your project complies with all relevant guidelines.
By carefully considering these factors, you can choose the right location for your plastic shed, ensuring a solid foundation and a smooth assembly process.
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Preparing the ground
Choose the Right Location
Select an area in your garden or allotment that is relatively flat and level. Avoid areas with hedges or trees that may hinder your access during the building process. Ensure the ground beneath the base is strong enough to support the weight of both the base and the shed. Stay clear of boggy or uneven areas.
Measure and Outline the Area
Use a tape measure, pegs, and string to measure out the required area for your shed. Ensure the area is slightly larger than the shed's base. Mark the outline of the area on the turf using the pegs and string. This will help you visualise the space the shed will occupy.
Remove Existing Vegetation
Clear the outlined area by removing any existing turf, grass, and vegetation. Dig down to a depth of around 70mm to ensure the base will sit flush with the remaining turf once the installation is complete. Dispose of the waste responsibly.
Level the Ground
Use a set square or a spirit level to ensure the ground is level. If your chosen area has a slope, you may need to dig out a section to create a flat surface. Fill any significant holes or depressions to achieve a level surface. Compacting the soil with a tamp can help create a firmer base.
Prepare the Base
Once the ground is level, you can prepare the base for your shed. There are various options for creating a shed base, including concrete, paving slabs, or plastic shed base kits. If you opt for a concrete base, pour a slab slightly larger than your shed's base and let it dry completely according to the manufacturer's instructions. Alternatively, you can use paving slabs or a plastic shed base kit, ensuring it is level and secure.
By following these steps, you will have a solid and level foundation for your plastic shed, ensuring a stable and durable structure.
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Building the base
Building a plastic shed starts with building a strong and level base. The first step is to choose a suitable area in your garden or allotment. Avoid areas with overhanging hedges or trees, and make sure you have good access all around the shed. It is also important to ensure the ground beneath the base is strong enough to carry the weight of the base and the shed. Avoid boggy areas and find a level area. If your lawn is sloped, you may need to dig out a section to create a level surface.
Once you have chosen the location, measure out the base and outline it in the turf. Remove the existing turf and soil from the outlined area down to a depth of around 70mm. Digging down to this depth will allow the base to sit flush with the remaining turf once the installation is complete.
The next step is to prepare the ground. This is a crucial part of installing a plastic shed base, as without the correct preparation, benefits such as permeability will not be as effective. You can use paving slabs or concrete to create a level surface, or you can use a plastic shed base kit. If you opt for concrete, pour a slab that is slightly bigger than your shed's base and let it dry completely according to the manufacturer's directions. If you are using a plastic shed base kit, ensure it includes both the grid system and permeable membrane.
Once the ground is prepared, you can fill the panels with angular gravel or angular aggregate to create a solid and flat surface. The base should be 40mm deep, and you will need around 8kg of gravel or aggregate to fill each panel. Finally, backfill around the edges of your new base with a 60:40 compost or soil sand and seed blend to help your shed base blend in with the rest of your garden.
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Assembling the shed
Assembling a plastic shed is a two-person job and can take up to a full day or more, depending on the size of the shed. It is recommended to assemble the shed in mild weather, as plastic panels can expand in hot weather and become difficult to fit, while cold weather can also adversely affect the plastic.
First, prepare the ground by finding a level area with good drainage and removing any vegetation. You can use paving slabs, concrete, or a plastic base. If using concrete, pour a slab that is slightly bigger than the shed's base and let it dry completely. If using a plastic base, place it on a levelled area and click each panel together, then fill the panels with gravel or aggregate to create a solid, flat surface.
Next, lay the floor of the shed by clipping and/or screwing the panels together. Then, erect the side panels around the edge of the floor. Inserting a small piece of wood underneath the panels at this stage can be helpful. The panels are then secured using screws or the manufacturer's bolting system and strengthened with steel supports.
Once the panels are in place, add the doors, handles, hinges, and latches. Then, fix the gables at each end and secure them, add any roof bracing, and assemble the roof panels. Finally, test the doors to ensure they open and latch closed properly.
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Preventing condensation
Firstly, ensure proper shed placement. Choose a well-drained location, away from areas prone to water accumulation. A level foundation is crucial for structural support and preventing water seepage.
Secondly, focus on ventilation and airflow. Open windows or install vents to allow fresh air to circulate and reduce moisture buildup. You can also use weatherstripping on windows and doors to further enhance ventilation.
Thirdly, during construction, ensure that all panels, screws, and washers are fitted correctly to prevent water ingress. Seal the base rails with silicone for added protection.
Additionally, consider using a damp-proof membrane that covers the entire base area. If condensation is already present, you may need to remove the shed from its base, build a raised timber floor, and then secure the shed to the new floor with screws and silicone seals.
Finally, you can use calcium chloride to absorb moisture. Place containers filled with calcium chloride inside your shed, following the package instructions for the correct number of containers required.
By following these steps, you can effectively prevent condensation and maintain a dry, well-ventilated plastic shed.
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Frequently asked questions
Choose an area that is level and strong enough to carry the weight of the base and the shed. Avoid boggy areas. Outline the area in the turf and remove the existing turf and soil to a depth of around 70mm.
It's possible to build a plastic shed by yourself, but it is recommended to have at least one other person to help. Pick a day when the weather is mild and not windy. Cross-check the pieces with the instruction manual and sort the screws into containers. Lay the floor first, then the side panels.
Check that all the panels, screws and washers are fitted correctly so that water cannot enter the shed. You can also use silicone to seal the base rails.
