Constructing a Concrete Foundation for a Shed in a Detailed Process

Every garden requires a shed. It serves as a secure and dry storage solution for all your gardening equipment, furniture, outdoor toys, BBQs, and more.

A well-designed shed also adds a touch of natural timber beauty to your outdoor space, seamlessly blending with your lawn, trees, shrubs, flowers, and fencing. Therefore, it is important to construct a shed that is not only functional, but also attractive and sturdy. And it all begins with the foundations.

Without a solid and level base, your new shed may look impressive initially, but it won't be long before it becomes unusable.

There are various types of shed bases available, including timber, plastic, and paving stones. However, in this article, we will focus on the most reliable option: preparing and pouring a solid concrete slab.

To lay a concrete base for your shed, you can rent all the necessary tools and equipment from the HSS range. In addition to that, we will provide you with step-by-step instructions. So, here is our comprehensive guide consisting of eight steps to create a concrete slab that will perfectly complement and support your new shed.

Step 1: Measure and Mark your Territory

Once you have determined the location, start by marking out the area for the concrete slab. Make sure to allocate a wider and longer space than the actual shed, leaving additional room for the formwork. Formwork refers to the wooden frame that will be placed around the edge of the area to hold the concrete in place. Drive a wooden peg into the ground at each corner and stretch a taut string between them. Ensure that the corners are square by measuring both diagonals. If they are not precisely the same, adjustments are necessary.

Step 2: Excavate the Base Area

Below the level of the concrete slab, you will need to create a 100mm deep sub-base and a damp-proof membrane. Therefore, dig a pit with a level bottom that is 100mm deep. Remove any grass, vegetation, stones, or debris from the area and compact the earth. If you require assistance with the digging, consider using a micro excavator, which can be rented from HSS.

Step 3: Lay the Sub-Base

It is not possible to lay a concrete base directly onto soft ground, which is why a hardcore sub-base is crucial. MOT Type 1 hardcore is the recommended material for this purpose. It is commonly used as a sub-base for roads and can be easily obtained in large quantities from DIY stores and trade suppliers.

Once the gravel sub-base is in position, use an HSS light vibrating wacker plate to thoroughly compact it. To prevent the sub-base stones from puncturing the damp-proof membrane, spread a layer of sand on top.

Remember, a sturdy and visually appealing shed starts with a solid concrete foundation. By following these eight steps, you will be able to create a concrete slab that perfectly supports and enhances your new pride and joy in the form of a shed.