Maya Ellison
Plastic sheds are a great way to increase storage space and keep your garage clutter-free. They are easy to assemble and maintain, and their durable walls can withstand weather conditions. While some sheds come with a floor, it is important to build a foundation to keep the shed off the ground, especially in wet weather. This involves levelling the ground, using materials such as gravel, concrete, or wood, and can be done using a DIY kit or from scratch.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Base Material | Concrete, gravel, limestone, sand, wood, plastic |
| Base Type | Slab, Pad, Platform, Frame |
| Base Characteristics | Level, permeable, non-permeable, adjustable, compacted |
| Base Add-ons | Weed membrane, edging, landscape fabric, vinyl floor |
| Base Kits | EasyPad Foundation System, QuickJack Garden Base Kit, EcoBearer Base System |
| Additional Support | Support beams, roof supports, screws |
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What You'll Learn
Using a concrete base
Building a concrete base for your plastic shed is a great way to ensure it has a strong, durable foundation. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to build a concrete base:
Step 1: Prepare the Site
Firstly, you need to find a level space in your yard with good water drainage. If your chosen site has a slope, you will need to level it using a standard level and compact the soil with a tamp or roller.
Step 2: Excavate and Create a Sub-Base
Excavate the site to the required depth. The recommended depth for a concrete base is 7.5 cm of compact hardcore (a mixture of crushed or broken bricks, blocks and stone) and 7.5 cm of concrete. You can also use gravel or road base fill, which includes gravel, dirt, and sand, as a cheaper alternative.
Step 3: Install a Sub-Base
Install a sub-base of compact hardcore or gravel/road base fill. For hardcore, use an earth rammer or vibrating plate compactor to compact it. For gravel/road base fill, compact it and then fine grade your base.
Step 4: Add a Layer of Sand
On top of the hardcore or gravel/road base fill, add a layer of sharp sand or ballast (also known as blinding) to fill any gaps. This layer should be approximately 5 cm deep.
Step 5: Construct Formwork
Construct formwork using timber to create a boundary for your concrete pour. You can use 2x4s to create a frame, ensuring the dimensions are slightly smaller (by approximately 25 mm) than the base of your shed to create an overhang and prevent water accumulation.
Step 6: Mix and Lay Concrete
Mix your concrete according to the manufacturer's instructions. Before laying the concrete, consider adding wire mesh and fibre to the mix to strengthen it and prevent cracks. Pour the concrete into your formwork and level it.
Step 7: Allow Concrete to Set
Allow ample time for the concrete to set and cure before erecting your plastic shed. Refer to the concrete manufacturer's instructions for the recommended curing time.
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Preparing the ground
Firstly, you need to find a suitable location for your shed. Choose a level space in your yard with good water drainage to prevent waterlogging and potential damage to your shed. If your yard has a slope, you will need to level the ground using a standard level and compact the soil with a tamp or a similar tool. Ensure the ground is firm and stable, removing any large rocks, roots, or debris that could affect the stability of your shed base.
After levelling the ground, you can spread a layer of gravel evenly across the area. Gravel will help with drainage and provide a solid base for your shed. If desired, you can also add a weed membrane or landscaping fabric between the soil and gravel to prevent weeds from growing and to keep the gravel separate from the soil. Ensure the gravel layer is compact and level before proceeding to the next step.
If you are using a shed base kit, such as the EasyPad or QuickJack systems, follow the manufacturer's instructions for assembly and installation. These kits often involve creating a timber ladder frame that sits on top of the gravel base and provides a level platform for your shed. Ensure you refer to the specific requirements of your shed model and base kit for the best results.
Alternatively, if you are creating a concrete base, you will need to excavate the area and prepare forms to hold the concrete. Pour the concrete slab slightly bigger than your shed's base and allow it to dry completely according to the manufacturer's instructions. You can then proceed to build your shed on top of the cured concrete base.
Remember to refer to your local building codes and regulations, as some areas may have specific requirements for impermeable bases and water runoff. By carefully preparing the ground, you will ensure your plastic shed has a solid and durable foundation.
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Using gravel
Gravel shed foundations are an affordable, reliable, and durable option for your plastic shed. They are also easy to install and can be more cost-effective than concrete foundations.
To build a base for your plastic shed using gravel, you will need to follow these steps:
Choose a suitable location:
Select an area in your yard that is level and can support the weight of your shed. Avoid boggy or sloped areas, and make sure you are familiar with any building and zoning laws or permits that may be required.
Prepare the ground:
Use a set square or spirit level to ensure the ground is level. If your lawn is sloped, you may need to dig out a section to create a level surface. Mark the corners and sides, making sure all corners are even and the lines are parallel.
Install a perimeter:
Use pressure-treated lumber rated GC ("ground contact") to create a retaining wall around the perimeter of your shed base. The lumber should be at least 4x4 in size. Secure the pieces together with long exterior screws, ensuring they are level and square.
Add a bedding layer:
On top of the secured membrane, lay a bedding layer of angular gravel or crushed aggregate. This layer should be approximately 30mm deep and compacted well to create a level and hard surface. You can use a hand tamper or a gas-powered vibrating plate compactor for this step.
Fill the base:
Once the bedding layer is compact, you can fill the panels of your plastic shed base with angular gravel or pea gravel. The gravel will create a solid and flat surface for your shed. For larger sheds, use pea gravel throughout the base to provide better weight distribution and drainage.
By following these steps, you can create a sturdy and durable gravel base for your plastic shed, ensuring it remains stable and level.
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Using a wooden platform
Firstly, you will need to determine the dimensions of your shed. Cut two 2x6s to the width of your shed, and another two 2x6s to the depth of your shed minus 3 inches. These boards will form the outer edges of your foundation. If you desire a platform larger than your shed, simply increase the length of the boards accordingly.
Next, place four deck blocks in the corners of your desired shed location. Use the four cut boards to outline the boundary of your shed foundation. If you are constructing a larger shed, you may require additional blocks in the middle for extra support.
Now, it's time to start building the foundation. You can use pressure-treated 2x4s or regular pine plywood and treat it yourself. Create a frame by connecting the boards with screws, ensuring it is raised and level. Cover the frame with plywood to provide a sturdy surface.
Finally, place your plastic shed on top of the wooden platform. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for assembling the shed, ensuring that it is anchored securely to the foundation.
Remember to refer to your local building codes and the manufacturer's guidelines to ensure your project complies with any regulations and does not void any warranties.
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Using a plastic shed base kit
The next step is to prepare the ground. This involves levelling the ground and ensuring proper drainage. If your lawn is sloped, you may need to dig out a section to create a level surface. You can then lay a weed membrane under the base to prevent weed growth.
Now, you can begin assembling your plastic shed base kit. The kit should include a grid system that simply snaps together like Lego. Make sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions for assembly. Filling the empty spaces in the grid with gravel can make the base more solid and aid in drainage.
Once your base is assembled and secured, you can build your shed on top of it. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for assembling the shed and anchoring it to the base.
It is important to note that some states or areas may have specific requirements or building codes, so be sure to check with your local authorities before starting your project.
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Frequently asked questions
Some base options for a plastic shed include concrete, gravel, limestone, and sand.
To level the ground for a plastic shed base, you can use gravel, a tamp, or a standard level.
Some good kits for building a base for a plastic shed include the EasyPad Foundation System, the QuickJack Garden Base Kit, and the EcoBearer Plastic Base.
Some important considerations when building a base for a plastic shed include checking local building codes, ensuring good water drainage, and following the manufacturer's instructions to avoid voiding the warranty.
