Important: A shed-ready platform must be in place before your delivery date. Questions? Contact us.

Your Shed Needs a Solid Foundation

Before we deliver and install your shed, you'll need a level, shed-ready platform in place. Here's everything you need to know about your options.

A Good Base Protects Your Investment

A shed installed on an improper or unlevel surface can shift, warp, and deteriorate far faster than one on a proper foundation. Doors won't close right, floors can flex, and water can collect underneath — causing rot and structural damage over time.

The good news: getting your base right is straightforward. You have a few solid options depending on your budget, soil type, and how permanent you want the installation to be.

  • Platform must be level within 1 inch across the full footprint
  • Must extend at least 6 inches beyond the shed on all sides
  • Must be in place and fully settled before delivery day
  • We'll confirm your site is ready before scheduling installation

The Golden Rules

01
Level is Everything An unlevel base puts uneven stress on the frame, causing the structure to rack and doors to bind over time.
02
Drainage Matters Water pooling under your shed is the #1 cause of premature floor rot. Your base must allow water to drain freely away.
03
Size It Right The platform should extend at least 6 inches past the shed footprint on every side for stability and step clearance.
04
Ready Before We Arrive Your platform needs to be fully complete and settled before your scheduled delivery — not in-progress on the day.

Choose the Right Platform for Your Shed

Each option has its pros and cons. The right choice depends on your budget, soil conditions, and how permanent you want the install to be.

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Gravel Base

Most Popular

A compacted gravel pad is the most common and recommended foundation for most sheds. It drains excellently, is easy to DIY, and works well on most soil types. Use crushed stone (not pea gravel) compacted in 3–4 inch layers.

  • Excellent drainage — water flows right through
  • Cost-effective and DIY-friendly
  • Works on most soil types
  • Easy to level with a rake and compactor
  • Allows shed to be moved if needed
  • Can shift slightly over many years
  • Not suitable for very soft or wet ground without a sub-base

Recommended depth: 4–6 inches of compacted crushed stone. Excavate any topsoil first and add landscape fabric to prevent weeds.

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Concrete Pad

Most Permanent

A poured concrete slab is the most permanent and solid foundation option. Ideal for larger sheds, workshops, or anywhere you want a completely stable, long-term base. Typically requires a professional pour.

  • Extremely stable — won't shift or settle
  • Ideal for heavy workshops or equipment
  • Low maintenance once cured
  • Can double as a floor surface
  • Most expensive option
  • Requires professional installation in most cases
  • Permanent — shed cannot easily be relocated
  • Must be fully cured (28 days) before delivery

Recommended spec: 4-inch slab minimum with wire mesh or rebar reinforcement. Ensure a slight slope (1/8" per foot) for drainage.

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Concrete Deck Blocks

Budget Friendly

Solid concrete deck blocks placed on a compacted gravel bed are a quick, affordable foundation option. Each block sits on a small gravel pad and supports the shed's skids or floor joists from below.

  • Very affordable and widely available
  • Fast to install — no curing time
  • Good for smaller sheds on flat ground
  • Shed can be adjusted or relocated
  • Less stable than a full gravel pad or concrete slab
  • Requires periodic re-levelling on shifting soils
  • Not recommended for larger or heavier structures

Best for: Smaller sheds (under 10×12) on relatively flat, stable ground. Place blocks on compacted gravel, never directly on soil.

Platform Comparison

Feature Gravel Base Concrete Pad Deck Blocks
Cost Low – Medium High Low
DIY Friendly Yes Usually No Yes
Drainage Excellent Good (if sloped) Good
Stability Very Good Excellent Moderate
Permanence Semi-permanent Permanent Removable
Best Shed Size Any size Any size Up to 10×12
Curing / Settling Time 24–48 hrs compact 28 days cure Same day
Our Recommendation ✓ Recommended ✓ Recommended Small sheds only

Getting Your Site Ready

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Before we deliver: Your site must be fully prepared and confirmed with our team before we schedule a delivery date. This protects your new shed and keeps your build on time — no exceptions.

Check Local Bylaws

Most towns require a permit once a shed passes a certain size. A quick call to your building department now saves expensive surprises later.

Call Before You Dig

Gas, water, and power lines can run anywhere underground. Dial 811 a few days before any excavation — the service is free and fast.

Measure Twice

Your base must extend at least 6 inches past the shed on every side. Confirm the exact footprint with us before you start building.

Clear the Area

Strip all grass, roots, and topsoil from the footprint. Organic matter decomposes over time and causes the shed to settle unevenly.

Plan for Access

Our truck needs room to reach the site. Flag any tight gates, soft ground, or low branches when you book so we can plan ahead.

Not Sure? Ask Us

Every site is different. Send us a few photos of your ground and we'll recommend the right foundation for your shed and soil.

Ready to Order Your Shed?

Get a quote today — we'll help you figure out everything you need before delivery day.

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