How to Set a Storage Shed

There are many types and styles of storage sheds. If you purchase a pre-built storage shed, you will need to make a few decisions before you set the shed, as well as prepare a pad to receive the shed. One decision will be where to put the shed; this needs to be in a location that is accessible, well-drained and visually appealing. The following steps will help to prepare the pad for your new shed.

Things You'll Need

• Wood stakes
• String
• Straight 2x4 lumber
• 4-construction level
• Landscape fabric filter
• Shovel
• Gravel

Instructions

1. Call your local utilities and have your property flagged to determine utility locations. Check your property plat to see if there are any easements or setback you need to consider. Check with your city or town to determine if there are any permits required.

2. Stake out the pad location using wood stakes and string.

3. Add 12 inches to the perimeter of the shed and remove the sod within. A sod cutter, rototiller or a shovel will work.

4. Use a 4-foot level and a 2x4 to level the pad.

5. Place a layer of landscape fabric filter over the pad.

6. Spread 4 inches of gravel over the pad and level.

Tips & Warnings

• Fabric filter will let water drain off the pad while stopping weeds from growing.

• The 4-inch layer of gravel will keep the wood from contacting the ground and provide drainage to help prevent rot.

• The delivery truck can cause a lot of damage to your yard, a few sheets of 3/4-inch plywood cut in half length wise can be laid out under the tires to help distribute the weight and help protect the yard.

• Besides utilities, watch out for any sprinklers or low -volt exterior lighting before preparing the pad.

References

• Finehomebuilding.com; firm foundation backyard shed
• Squidoo.com; foundation for storage shed
• Secretsofshedbuilding.com; shed foundation

Resources

• "Sheds: The Do-It-Yourself Guide for Backyard Builders"; David Stiles and Jeanie Stiles; 2007
• "Building a Shed", Joseph Truini; 2003