Create a Long-Lasting, Strong Foundation with Our Shed Site Prep Instructions
Ordering a new outdoor building from Fisher Structures is an exciting time. While our expert artisans craft your new she-shed, gazebo, pavilion, mini-barn, or garage to your specifications, now is the perfect time to prepare the site for your new shed to sit on.
If you’re unsure of where to start, Fishers Structures has you covered! With over 30 years of experience, we can provide the best shed site prep instructions you need to ensure your shed’s foundation is ready to withstand years of use.
Our Shed Site Prep Recommendations
When building a shed or other outdoor structure, you want to ensure that you select the perfect placement for it. The place you choose needs appropriate leveling. It shouldn’t be too close to your property lines or other objects in the area.
It doesn’t hurt to check local ordinances or with your HOA, if applicable, to see if there are any regulations regarding the place where you’d like to put your new structure. Additionally, our delivery drivers will need about 40 feet of clearance in front of the proposed site for safe placement.
Once you’ve selected the perfect shed site, follow these shed preparation steps:
- Prepare the Gravel Pad—Remove the sod from an area slightly bigger than your shed’s footprint—about two feet on each side—in the shape of your storage shed. Remove any dirt as necessary to level the area. You may also choose to cover the soil with a piece of landscape fabric or weed barrier to prevent weeds from sprouting up around your building.
- Fill the Shed Pad—Fill the area you cleared with ¾” limestone, about three to four inches deep. Be sure you level the crushed stone before the installation of your shed.
- Tamp the Gravel—Tamp the gravel down until flat and level. You want your shed site prep to be as even as possible for proper shed installation.
Once you have the site preparation complete, you may choose to add a border of pressure-treated wood or paver blocks to keep the stone in place. However, this step is optional and not required.
Things to Avoid During Shed Preparation
Now that you have the information you need to create the perfect shed base that will provide a firm foundation for years to come, it’s time to look at what you need to avoid when selecting and prepping your shed site.