How to Build a Foundation for a Storage Shed

Make a sturdy foundation to support your shed.

The key to a long-lasting, sturdy structure of any type is a good foundation. A storage shed is no exception, but many people who build their own sheds underestimate its importance or don't know how to build a proper foundation. Rather than take the risk of all your hard work going to waste due to a sagging or collapsing foundation, take the time to build a solid foundation when you begin your project.

Things You'll Need

• Wooden stakes and/or landscaping paint
• Shovel
• Tamper
• Rake
• Gravel
• Deck blocks
• 2-by-6 lumber
• 2-by-4 lumber
• Hammer
• Nails
• Electric drill
• Wood screws

Instructions

1. Mark the area for your shed on the ground using stakes or landscaping paint. Excavate the area down to a depth of 2 inches. Remove any loose debris and rocks, level the area and compact it firmly with a hand tamper. Add 2 inches of finely crushed gravel to the excavated area and level it with a rake.

2. Arrange deck blocks on the gravel into rows that are 3 feet apart on center, so the blocks within each row are spaced 16 inches apart on center. Use concrete, pier-type deck blocks with two channels across the top.

3. Cut rim joists and end joists from 2-by-6 lumber to size based on your shed dimensions. Nail them together to form the flooring foundation.

4. Raise the joists up and onto the blocks with the help of another person. Rest the joists in the channels on top of the blocks.

5. Cut interior joists to size from 2-by-4 lumber, align them so that they also rest on the channels of the deck blocks and nail them into place every 18 inches on center between the rim and end joists.

References

• Secrets-of-Shed-Building.com: What is a Shed Pier Foundation?