In some situations post and beam method of construction is ideal for garden shed foundations. This involves connecting posts in the ground to the underfloor runners of the shed. Its particularly suitable in sloping ground conditions, or where the level of the shed must be raised above the ground. In most cases the post and beam construction is cheaper than a concrete pad. Care must be taken to ensure that the materials used in the foundations are strong enough. They must carry the weight of the garden shed in extreme weather conditions without any chance of moving out of alignment.
When you use this method of foundation construction starts by purchasing enough treated timber to cut posts into the required lengths. Add enough length to each post to account for one-third being inserted below ground. When placing the posts in the ground tamper the earth around them. A bright idea is to pour concrete mix around the base of the posts before compacting the earth to give them better stability. To secure the posts to the under-floor runners galvanized steel tee plates can be used. These are especially made for the purpose and can be purchased at a timber merchant.
Making a concrete slab for your garden shed has its own advantages although the material cost may be more expensive than the post and beam method. It is easy to construct, and as it covers the whole shed area you have a ready made floor. Moreover, the shed framing can be secured firmly to the concrete slab by brackets or bolts embedded in the concrete when it is poured. The finished concrete floor will have a smooth surface that can support heavy weights, and resist vibration such as from woodworking machinery. It will be a "do it yourself " opportunity if you have not had any concreting experience before to prepare and complete your own concrete slab construction. An excellent idea is to get someone with concrete work experience to help you.
First clear your garden shed site of all debris to achieve a level surface. You should then check your plans to mark out the internal dimensions for the concrete frame mould. Adjust the corners of the frame so that they are exactly at right angles by measuring across the diagonal corners are the same. Make sure the frame is firmly secured in place with pegs and checked with a spirit level in all directions. Also, check that the external sides of the garden shed framing, and the outer edges of the concrete pad will be the same. The wall side cladding will then extend neatly over the edges of the raised concrete pad making a weather proof joint.
Depending on the size of the concrete pad mixing the concrete can be done in a steel barrow, or for large jobs ready-mix can be delivered by a truck. If you are mixing the concrete yourself you will need to purchase the right quantity of cement and gravel. Advice from your supplier will tell you the right proportions to order. Level the concrete while it is still wet by using a piece of timber (e.g. 2x4) resting on the frame and screening it backwards and forwards. Use a metal or wooden float to make a smooth finish to your concrete pad.
When the author made the foundation for his shed a concrete pad was made level with the ground and wider than the shed dimensions by 12 inches (30cm). The actual concrete pad was then laid on top to a height of 4 inches (10cm). This method provided a neat concrete path around the shed for a mowing strip and placing pot plants. Building your garden shed must comply with prescriptive building codes that spell out exactly how something has to be done. Building codes are to maintain standard procedures to comply with building practices as well as protecting public health, safety and general welfare. Building a garden shed may not be as important as a larger building, but they still need to comply with building standards. Before embarking on building your garden shed make sure you have checked with your local town planning authority whether you need a building permit.
In conclusion select the garden shed foundation that best suits your situation. If the ground is sloping then the post and beam method will be ideal. In most cases this method will be a cheaper option than a concrete pad. A concrete pad is best suited for flat ground, provides greater stability and supports heavy weights. Whatever method you use check your plans to get the measurements correct, and test the diagonals are the same length so that your shed corners are square. You may or may not need planning consent but before you start building it pays to check.
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