How to Build a Shed Foundation

A long lasting shed will need a sturdy foundation to keep it level and protect it from moisture .

Follow these steps to build your shed foundation .

First check .

Local building codes or Homeowners Association guidelines regarding permits .

Frost lines and location specs in your yard also call 811 to check for underground utilities .

Pick a spot for your shed that's close to level and doesn't collect water .

It's also good to have three ft of clearance around the perimeter from things like fences and structures to ensure you have enough space at your location , mark the shed area with mason string and batter boards to square it measure three ft along one string and four ft along the adjacent string .

The distance between the two points should be five ft adjust as needed and check the other corners .

You can build your foundation several ways on grade foundations are for areas that don't freeze .

One option is a concrete slab with sill plates on top .

Another option is masonry blocks set on four inches of gravel .

The next methods are for frost proof foundations .

The footers are set below the frost line to prevent shifting during freezing temperatures you'll need additional strings and batter boards to line up post holes and runners .

The first method uses concrete tube forms on gravel with post base brackets on top .

For our shed , we're using posts set on concrete footers , dig holes about four ft apart .

12 inches in diameter and 12 inches below the frost line , pour about 4 to 6 inches of gravel in the hole , compact it then add concrete following the manufacturer's directions .

Once the concrete is cured , set a post on top of the footer , making sure the post is plumb and holding it straight .

Add concrete around the sides and top off with soil .

After all the posts are set , determine the height you want for your shed floor and mark one post .

Use this as a guide to mark the other posts and cut with a saw .

Then attach post base brackets and four by four runners .

Next build the frame with two by fours and nails according to your shed's directions , set the frame on the four by fours , leaving an overhang at the ends and attach one side to each four by four with one screw check for square by measuring the diagonals .

They should be the same , make any adjustments and secure the other side of the frame to the four by fours .

Then use screws to secure the frame at each point that contacts the four by four .

Next set a floor panel at the corner of the frame flush to the edges , nail down the short edge , check the frame for square one more time and nail down the rest of the plywood , attach the other floor panels according to the directions with the foundation set .

You're ready to build the shed kits , come with detailed instructions to do it yourself or have it professionally installed .

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