Building a shed starts with a solid base. Proper construction, as often highlighted by organizations like the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB), is crucial for longevity. Using the right foundation blocks for shed involves considering factors such as soil type and intended use. For accurate leveling, a spirit level is indispensable. Following this step-by-step guide helps ensure your shed is structurally sound, avoiding potential problems and offering a durable storage solution in any backyard.
Image taken from the YouTube channel BuildTuff , from the video titled TuffBlock Explained in 90 Seconds – The Most Advanced Deck Foundation Block .
Laying Foundation Blocks for Your Shed: A Step-by-Step Guide
This guide provides a clear and easy-to-follow method for installing foundation blocks, specifically designed for sheds. Properly laying foundation blocks for shed structures is crucial for ensuring longevity, stability, and preventing moisture damage. This guide aims to simplify the process.
1. Planning & Preparation: Ensuring a Solid Start
Before you even think about lifting a foundation block, meticulous planning is essential. This phase dictates the success of your shed’s foundation.
1.1. Determining the Shed Size and Layout
- Measure Carefully: Accurately measure the length and width of your shed base. Double-check your shed plans or the manufacturer’s specifications.
- Mark the Perimeter: Use stakes and string to clearly mark out the exact footprint of your shed on the ground. This visual guide will help you accurately position the foundation blocks for shed.
- Consider Drainage: Evaluate the natural drainage of your site. Avoid areas prone to water pooling. If needed, consider diverting water away from the shed foundation using landscaping or drainage solutions.
1.2. Selecting the Right Foundation Blocks
Choosing the right foundation blocks for shed is vital for supporting the weight and ensuring stability.
- Material: Concrete blocks are generally the most common and reliable choice. They offer excellent durability and resistance to the elements.
- Size & Load Capacity: Determine the appropriate size and load-bearing capacity of the blocks based on the size and weight of your shed. Consult a local building supply store for recommendations based on your specific project. A simple rule: the larger the shed, the bigger/stronger the blocks.
- Quantity: Calculate the number of blocks needed based on the perimeter of your shed and the desired spacing between supports. A general rule of thumb is to place blocks every 4-6 feet along the perimeter and under any load-bearing walls inside the shed.
1.3. Preparing the Ground
Proper ground preparation is perhaps the most critical step for long-term stability.
- Remove Topsoil: Remove all grass, vegetation, and topsoil from within the marked perimeter. Aim for a depth of at least 4-6 inches.
- Level the Area: Use a shovel and level to create a perfectly level base. This step is crucial to ensure that all the foundation blocks for shed are on a level plane.
- Compact the Soil: Use a hand tamper or plate compactor to thoroughly compact the exposed soil. This prevents settling and ensures a stable base for the blocks. Compacting is especially important on sandy or loose soil.
- Add Gravel (Optional, But Recommended): Adding a 2-4 inch layer of gravel over the compacted soil will improve drainage and further stabilize the base. Level and compact the gravel layer as well.
2. Laying the Foundation Blocks: A Step-by-Step Process
With the groundwork complete, it’s time to carefully position the foundation blocks for shed.
2.1. Positioning the First Row of Blocks
- Start at a Corner: Begin at one corner of your marked perimeter.
- Place the First Block: Carefully place the first block onto the prepared base. Use a level to ensure it is perfectly level both horizontally and vertically.
- Adjust as Needed: Add or remove soil or gravel under the block to achieve perfect level.
- Repeat for Other Corners: Repeat the process for the remaining corners of the shed perimeter.
2.2. Filling in the Gaps
- String Line: Stretch a string line tightly between the corner blocks to create a guide for placing the remaining blocks along the perimeter.
- Consistent Spacing: Maintain consistent spacing between the blocks. Generally, 4-6 feet is recommended, but refer to your shed plans or manufacturer’s instructions for specific recommendations.
- Level Each Block: Carefully level each block as you place it, ensuring it is aligned with the string line and the adjacent blocks. Use shims if necessary to achieve perfect level.
- Internal Supports: If your shed is large or has heavy internal features, add additional foundation blocks for shed under load-bearing walls inside the perimeter, spaced appropriately.
2.3. Ensuring Level and Stability
- Double-Check Level: Once all the blocks are in place, double-check the level of each block and the entire foundation using a long level.
- Fill Gaps (Optional): Fill any gaps around the base of the blocks with gravel or compacted soil for added stability.
3. Final Preparations: Readying for Shed Construction
The foundation is now laid, but a few final touches will ensure a smooth transition to shed construction.
3.1. Install Shims (If Needed)
- Identify Gaps: If there are any gaps between the foundation blocks for shed and the shed floor frame, use shims to create a solid, level surface.
- Secure Shims: Secure the shims in place using construction adhesive or small nails.
3.2. Consider a Moisture Barrier
- Plastic Sheeting: Consider placing a layer of heavy-duty plastic sheeting over the ground within the shed perimeter to act as a moisture barrier. This helps prevent moisture from rising into the shed and causing damage.
3.3. Inspect the Foundation
- Final Check: Before starting construction on the shed itself, conduct a final inspection of the foundation. Ensure all blocks are level, stable, and properly positioned. Address any issues immediately.
The following table summarizes the required materials and tools.
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Foundation Blocks | Concrete blocks of appropriate size and load-bearing capacity. |
| Stakes & String | For marking the shed perimeter. |
| Shovel | For removing topsoil and leveling the ground. |
| Level (4ft recommended) | For ensuring the foundation blocks are level. |
| Hand Tamper/Compactor | For compacting the soil and gravel base. |
| Gravel (Optional) | For improving drainage and stability. |
| Shims | For leveling the shed floor frame on top of the foundation blocks. |
| Construction Adhesive | For securing shims (optional). |
| Measuring Tape | For accurate measurements. |
| Work Gloves | For protecting your hands. |
| Safety Glasses | For protecting your eyes. |
Shed Foundation Blocks: Frequently Asked Questions
This FAQ section addresses common questions about building a shed foundation using concrete blocks, helping clarify steps and ensure a successful project.
How many foundation blocks do I need for my shed?
The number of foundation blocks you need depends on the size of your shed and the recommended spacing between blocks. Measure the perimeter of your shed and divide by the spacing (typically 4-8 feet). Add extra blocks for corners and any additional support points needed in the middle of the shed. Accurate calculation ensures proper support for the entire structure.
What kind of base material should I use under the foundation blocks for my shed?
A well-drained base is crucial. Crushed gravel or compacted road base is recommended. This material helps with drainage, preventing water from pooling and undermining the foundation blocks for your shed. A compacted base also provides a stable and level surface.
How level does the ground need to be before placing the foundation blocks?
The ground needs to be as level as possible. Uneven ground can lead to instability and structural problems. Use a level and a shovel to smooth the area where you’ll be placing the foundation blocks for the shed. Shimming with wood pieces can help fine-tune leveling after the blocks are placed.
Do I need to attach the shed to the foundation blocks?
While not always required, attaching the shed to the foundation blocks is recommended, especially in areas with high winds. You can use construction adhesive or anchor bolts to secure the shed frame to the foundation blocks. This provides added stability and helps prevent the shed from shifting or being blown over.
Alright, you’ve got the lowdown on foundation blocks for shed! Now go build something awesome! Hope this guide was helpful. Happy building!