Do Sheds Need a Foundation? A Comprehensive Guide

The base or foundation is the thing that supports the shed. It is sometimes referred to as a shed base. Its system of structural support provides a solid base for the shed to sit on. While for some it's a question of do sheds need a foundation, or if having a shed base is an extra unnecessary step, having one has several benefits.

Do sheds need a foundation? Here’s a complete guide to whether you need a Shed Foundation or not!

Do You Need a Shed Foundation?

Do sheds need a foundation? In a very rare case, no, but most of the time yes. Smaller sheds need not have a foundation. You wouldn't require a foundation if you have a tiny 6x6 or 8x8 rubber or plastic shed, or if you already have a sturdy structure for the shed like concrete or cemented floor backyard or garage. Sometimes when you get to buy a shed that's strong enough, you no longer need to build a foundation for it too.

Also, you can construct a shed on a pallet or a skid, or simply construct on a level area of land but that would probably compromise quality. It is generally recommended for sheds to have a foundation. A shed's base or foundation keeps the shed from sinking or settling unevenly, which can lead to uneven flooring, binds in the doors and windows, and cracks in the walls. A solid foundation keeps the shed from settling or moving over time by giving it support and stability. So, generally, in most common cases, sheds do need a foundation. If you have no plans of having one, the best solution is to buy a high-quality shed.

Why is a Foundation Needed?

Sheds have developed from being straightforward do-it-yourself structures to include workspaces, offices, and even bedrooms, but certainly all have one in common, all have a shed base.

The durability of your shed and the amount of care it needs depend on several factors. One of the factors is the shed foundation. Since the foundation affects how long your shed will last, therefore, it's the most crucial component of any shed.

Ground moisture may destroy your shed's floor without the right foundation, leading to the collapse of the structure. So, knowing different types of shed bases suitable for the type of shed you're building is an advantage for your shed to last.

Aside from stability reasons, without a shed foundation the entire structure is probably going to be put up incorrectly and your shed's quality and lifespan might not last long.

So, do sheds really need a foundation? Consider these reasons:

Weight. The shed's base carries the shed's weight. It is supported by a proper base. With a shed base, you can keep your shed from collapsing into the ground and becoming damaged or useless.

Level Surface.  A base or foundation leveled the area where the shed will be erected. Having no shed foundation may eventually give rise to structural problems in the construction or create problems when assembling the shed.

Air Circulation. A good base lets air flow beneath the shed to keep mold and decay at bay.

Types of Shed Bases

Gravel Base

Gravel and crushed stone are great choices for base layers and foundations. Nothing keeps a shed safe and secure like a gravel foundation. Rather than the weight of the shed resting on a few spots with gaps in between, a gravel shed foundation evenly distributes the weight of the shed across the whole frame.

This is particularly crucial if you intend to keep a car or large piece of equipment in your shed. Building a gravel shed foundation is among the simplest options and one of the least expensive foundation options for a shed base.

Gravel foundations are among the greatest choices for sheds since they are affordable, and encourage proper drainage. An adequate and sturdy base is necessary for every high-quality storage shed.

Concrete Slab

Because it is durable, sturdy, and capable of supporting large-weight loads, concrete makes an excellent shed base. Concrete slab works well as a dependable foundation. However, the concrete slab is a bit pricey compared to gravel, but there's a good reason why these shed foundations cost more.

The materials, personnel, and equipment needed for installing concrete foundations might be more expensive. The weight of your shed is more solid on a concrete slab that has been placed correctly and has had sufficient drainage, giving the entire structure a lifespan of more than 50 years.

Wooden Piers

A wooden base is essentially a framework made of pressure-treated joists that keep the shed off the ground. One method to anchor your wooden shed floor is with shed foundation piers, also known as floor anchors.

For smaller sheds, a wooden shed base offers an inexpensive, simple-to-install, and more than sufficient foundation. A wooden pier shed base is sufficient for smaller sheds. For a sturdy wooden shed base, you build your shed on top of a straightforward wooden frame that is reinforced with cross beams.

Moreover, you can also choose others that have their piers concrete while the support braces and flooring are made of wood.

Plastic Shed Base Kits

The plastic shed base is suitable for garden sheds, playhouses, or bike storage. It is simple and easy to pick up, carry, and arrange because it's lightweight. Selecting a plastic base has many advantages.

A plastic gravel basis is not only affordable and lightweight, but it also provides excellent drainage capabilities, keeping your shed dry and free of harm. While there are plastic bases that are eco-friendly, it also comes from a multitude of materials.

There are plastic shed bases that are made from polyethylene—the most prevalent kind of plastic—or others are made from resin.

What Shed Foundations Are Best?

Do sheds need a foundation? It will depend on what the shed's purpose is. If it's for light storage such as garden tools or bikes, a wooden shed base will do. There are wooden materials that last long and are termite-resistant. You can use those types of wood for a base. Though easy and cheaper to build, wooden shed bases require consistent maintenance in the long run.

Meanwhile, if you're up for heavy storage, you can go for a concrete or gravel shed base. It's a bit costly, but in the long run, it doesn't require much maintenance and care compared to the wooden base. Another thing is, that these types of shed bases are sturdy and usually last longer than the wooden shed base. Every shed base has its pros and cons, in the end, it will still depend on the consumer's needs and preferences.

Tips for Constructing Your Own Shed Foundations

If you want to go for a DIY shed or buy one, here are some basic tips for constructing a shed foundation:

Build your shed at least two inches above the ground. Parts of the floor that touch the ground will eventually rot, which will then attract rats. Most likely, it also won’t stay straight since soil erodes over time due to different weathers.

Concrete is the best option to make a sturdy and long-lasting shed floor that's closer to the ground. If you pour the slab yourself, just be sure to properly mix and pour it.

Make sure your shed's walls and floor are square. An out-of-square start will come back to haunt you throughout the entire project, from roofing to trim to doors and windows.

Check your framing twice a lot to make sure it stays straight. For those who opt for a wooden shed base, buy straight lumber if necessary, this will minimize your work in constructing frames.

Buy High-Quality Sheds Today

So, with the common concern of do sheds need a foundation, the best way to erase worries is to buy high-quality sheds. High-quality shed isn't just visually appealing but is cost-effective, low maintenance, and durable. It has a long life span.

Typically constructed out of premium materials and is made to be resilient to all types of weather. And doesn't just naturally wear off with time. Superior materials offer superior resistance against environmental factors, vermin, and other environmental harm like mold or dampness.

Look for sheds constructed of durable materials. Patiowell offers a shed where materials have a reputation for being resistant to weather, pests, and normal wear and tear. They ensure that their sheds are well constructed to secure your storage for many years to come.

Also, high-quality sheds have integrated flooring, which is a practical option. Others might need a different kind of foundation, such as a gravel base or a concrete slab. The flooring you choose for the shed should complement its intended purpose.

A sturdy floor is necessary if you intend to keep heavy equipment. Or, you may want to choose a flooring option that insulates and shields more sensitive things from ground moisture. Regardless of the shed's purpose, Patiowell's shed comes with an optional floor base to fit consumer's needs.

There are lots of sheds to choose from—ones that are constructed from different materials, low-cost maintenance, and resistant to pests and decay.

Check out Patiowell and see which shed best fits your needs.