Three Simple and Effective DIY Shed Foundation Types

DIY shed plans have opened up a way for just about anyone to tackle these wonderful wood working projects. These plans for sheds may or may not have recommendations on the sort of foundation and there are several options to choose from.
Most sheds are designed to be constructed using on-grade foundations. This category of foundation is quick and simple to build, comparatively cheap and can be tailored to suit even sloping sites. The materials are readily available: lumber, solid concrete blocks and gravel for example. It's easy to get the foundation level and square as the components are easy to set in place and move around. Here are three alternatives that are straightforward to build and will cover the majority of situations.
Solid Concrete Block Foundation
In this type of foundation solid concrete blocks of differing sizings are used to create the foundation. The blocks are usually 8" x 16" and come in 4" and 2" thick blocks. Your shed is supported by a series of these blocks set out in straight evenly spaced lines with the spacing dictated by the size of the shed and the lumber used for the flooring joists. The varying thicknesses are utilized to lift the height of the foundation where required so this is an option for a non-level site. If the shed is in a dry position the blocks may be located directly on the ground but a site with runoff will need the blocks to be dug in for stability.
Skid Foundation
This method has been employed for many years and is really simple. It consists of simply putting two or more long, straight timbers (skids) on the ground or better a compacted gravel base, parallel to each other. Typically they are made of pressure treated 4x6's, 6x6's or 8x8's. And in essence that is it! The shed's floor framework is built directly onto the skids. You'll need a fairly flat location as the timbers are long and straight however it is a an extremely fast technique and the skids spread the weight over a large area.
Timber Frame Foundation
This kind of foundation consists of a rectangular frame placed on a gravel bed with the shed walls constructed directly onto it and is generally made from pressure treated 4x4's, 4x6's or 6x6's. It can be employed on a sloped site by digging a level surface to lay the gravel base onto. This type of foundation gives you flexibility with flooring as the floor area within the timber frame can be packed with gravel or other rock, slabs of stone or slate or a timber floor may be nailed onto the frame.
Taking time to get the correct information and select the best foundation is a sensible investment. A poorly built foundation of whatever method will only cause problems with the finished project and the money you spent on your DIY shed plans may be wasted. Always consider your particular conditions when selecting a foundation. Good plans for sheds should give you an indication of what type will best suit. A shed is a wonderful wood working project and you'll get the best result if you begin with a firm foundation.

Article Source: http://www.newsarticlessite.com

Mark C Johnson is an enthusiastic Do-It-Yourselfer with a building industry background and understands the worth of good preparation and advice. A DIY shed is a substantial undertaking but can be immensely rewarding. Get great advice, ideas and plans here at www.diyshedplansandmore.com/

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