How to Build a Shed Foundation

Building a Backyard Shed

Introduction:

If you have outgrown your garage and plan to build a backyard shed for storage there are a few things about shed building you should know. I often get questions on building a back yard shed such as “what size should I make it”, “what type of material should I use” or “how to build shed a shed foundation”? These are all good questions that the DIY homeowner needs to know the answers to before beginning to build a back yard shed. Listed below are some guide lines for building the foundation for a shed.

Before beginning to build a shed you need to check with your local building inspector or code officer to determine what your local requirements are. If the shed is no larger than 8 x 10 feet and does not have electrical power a building permit is not usually required, for anything larger a permit is usually required. There are building standards for sheds much like houses. These standards are for safety and to insure that good building practices are maintained. A next door neighbor does not want a poorly constructed shack built next to his house.

Building the shed foundation:

A shed will not last long if it's set on a weak base or the bare ground. Most sheds can be supported by an on grade foundation that consists of solid concrete blocks. Setting a shed on the ground is not a good idea as it will absorb water from the ground and decay in a few years, even pressure treated lumber. The concrete blocks must be leveled and spaced closely enough to properly support the shed's floor frame.

Typically an 8 X 10 foot shed only needs four concrete blocks, one on each corner, to support the shed platform. The platform should be built over a gravel base so water will drain away from underneath the shed.

The platform should be made from pressure treated lumber using 2 x 6s or 2 x 8s and covered with ¾ inch plywood. Both sides of the floor plywood should be painted using a good quality oil based paint that will penetrate the wood. This will prevent the plywood from decaying from ground moisture.

The floor joists are nailed together using galvanized nails and the joist hangers nailed to the inside of the joist to help carry the floor weight. Insure that the platform frame is square before attaching the plywood floor. Avoid building a shed in a wet low-lying area. There should be airspace between the platform frame and the ground to allow for air circulation.

If the shed is larger than 8 X 10 additional cement blocks should be used to support the platform frame.

That is all there is to it. Now you know how to build a shed foundation you can begin the project. Don’t overlook checking with your local building inspector or code officer before beginning the work.

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