A reliable garden shed is the cornerstone of any great garden. Storage is key in any area of the house, but having a durable shed in your outdoor space is essential for keeping any tools and equipment safe while allowing your beautiful garden to take centre stage without clutter.
Building a quality shed, that’s both functional and aesthetically suited to your alfresco area, starts with an all-important decision – selecting the best garden shed base to build on.
From suitable materials for our climate to which design will last the longest, the following guide outlines all you need to know when installing a new garden shed that boasts both durability and longevity.
Enhancing Your Outdoor Oasis
Garden sheds shouldn’t be seen as standard storage spaces, but rather as an extension of our homes. Making sure your shed is stable and well-built using the right materials sets it up for a highly functional lifespan that enhances the look and feel of your property while also serving a practical use.
A great shed can become much more than a place to keep gardening tools. The right design and build often serve as a tranquil space or creative oasis for home projects and repairs, but this won’t be achievable without first choosing the right garden shed base for your site, budget, and long-term plans.
The Importance of a Quality Garden Shed Base
Whether you’re considering a DIY project or calling the experts, the key to a successful build is a reliable garden shed base that can serve as a resilient anchor for the rest of the construction.
Choosing a suitable base helps minimise contact with the ground, which in turn prevents issues with dampness while providing a stable foundation. Over time, this decision will pay off in dividends with a robust structure designed to withstand severe climates over time.
Types of Garden Sheds To Choose From
Garden shed base materials are not one-size-fits-all. The decision of which material to choose, whether that’s concrete, wood, metal, or more, depends on its desired purpose, soil and land characteristics – and what can best withstand local weather conditions year-round.
The following materials are popular options for shed base construction, each with its pros and material has its pros and cons, making it imperative to carry out research and select the right base for your needs.
Concrete Foundation
With plenty of variations to choose from, concrete is a versatile choice for shed bases. One option is a floating concrete slab foundation, poured directly onto the ground, which offers rigid support for larger structures.
Opting for a concrete slab foundation with footers makes it less susceptible to soil movement, whereas concrete block foundations are a more straightforward and affordable choice for those with uneven terrain.
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Pros:
- Great value for the money
- Provides even foundational support
- Extremely durable
- Suitable for large builds
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Cons:
- More expensive than other options
- Some concrete options are difficult for DIY projects
- Longer drying time
- Can be vulnerable to soil expansion
Pier and Beam Foundation
Similar to the construction of houses, pier and beam foundations combine wooden beams with concrete piers to create a stable base on sloped land. Due to its complex nature, it typically requires the help of professionals to install
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Pros:
- Ideal for sloped construction sites
- Helps resist contact with damp ground
- Highly durable
- Suitable for sheds of all sizes
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Cons:
- Does require a step into the shed
- Can be expensive
- Space for pests to live underneath
Wooden Skid Foundation
Entirely made from wood, a skid foundation is one of the more easy options for DIY shed builders. It may be a less durable option, but it is usually able to be relocated if needed.
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Pros:
- Affordable
- Provides the option to relocate
- Suitable for those experienced at DIY
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Cons:
- Prone to quicker rot.
- Not great for frost or soil-resistance
- Less durable than concrete
Gravel Pad Foundation
Made up of crushed stone or gravel, this simple yet effective foundation is a popular choice for those looking for a quick construction period or enhancing moisture protection.
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Pros:
- Affordable
- Simple installation
- Helps with moisture protection
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Cons:
- Not very durable
- Can be susceptible to soil expansion
- Not frost-proof
Plastic Foundation
While it may sound odd, plastic foundations can be an easy and affordable install. Typically made from composite post pads or base tiles, plastic foundations are best suited for areas with low moisture.
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Pros:
- Straightforward installation
- Highly affordable
- Suitable for some movement
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Cons:
- Not suited to high moisture areas
- Won’t resist frost.
- Shorter life span
Metal Foundation
Metal shed jack foundations are a versatile choice, with adjustable metal posts providing a relocatable foundation.
The newer trend of prefabricated metal kit foundations may be tempting with their easy assembly, but are prone to damage in high winds and lack the robustness of other materials.
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Pros:
- Fast assembly
- Relatively affordable
- Resistant to moisture and insects.
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Cons:
- Less sturdy
- Not ideal for high winds
- Subject to rust and soil movement
How to Choose the Right Shed Base
Make sure to consider several key factors when selecting the best garden shed base for your property:
- Size and purpose: determines the required load-bearing capacity
- Soil type: influences stability, drainage needs, and the ability to expand if needed
- Sloped land: may require added supports or retaining walls
- Climate: clarifies which materials are most durable, and whether soil movement plays a part
- Aesthetics: select a garden shed that compliments your existing outdoor space and home, taking into consideration material type and colour
Relationship Between the Base and Garden Shed Flooring
A solid foundation provides a level surface, which prevents undue stress on the shed structure and flooring. Don’t underestimate the symbiotic relationship between the base and flooring, as each element ensures a functional interior protected by a durable exterior.
This interconnected nature is crucial to prevent sagging, warping, or damaging wear and tear in a short period, with a robust base acting as an anchor for long-lasting garden shed flooring.
Shed Construction Regulations
It’s important to note local building regulations when building on your property. A permit is necessary for sheds in most residential zones that are 10m² or larger, and exceeding 2.4m in height.
There are also setback regulations in place for garden sheds, which mandate distances from the property’s boundaries – the height and length of the structure can impact these regulations. Note that sheds are prohibited in front yards; consult with experts in shed bases and flooring for further guidance.
Setting the Foundations for the Future
Choosing the right garden shed base isn’t just a technicality, it gives you the opportunity to enhance your outdoor space for years to come with a highly functional and secure shed.
Perth Fence Installers are ready to assist you through this process, from providing professional advice to top-notch installation services for shed bases and flooring.
Explore Shed Base and Fencing Services
Access leading services for top-quality shed base and flooring installation today with Perth Fence Installers. Contact us now for expert advice on garden shed bases or to book an efficient installation to transform your outdoor space.