Installing a shed may seem like a simple enough project. However, one aspect you won’t want to overlook is that of preparing the ground for shed installation. After all, the ground on which your new shed will be installed needs to be cleared and properly leveled to ensure a smooth installation. Not sure where to begin? Follow this step-by-step guide!
Mark and Clear the Area
Start by choosing the location for your shed installation and then mark off the area using paint or stakes. When selecting a location, avoid areas that are too close to property lines or easements. You may also want to choose a location that is already on the most level part of your property.
Once the area is marked, go ahead and clear the location of any debris, shrubs, or other growth as much as possible to prepare for the next steps.
Tamp and Level the Ground
After the shed installation area is cleaned of grass and debris, it’s time to tamp the dirt. This should be done using a large tamper until the dirt itself is compacted and as even as possible. Manual tamping will generally yield the best results, though an automatic tamper can be used to speed up the process and save you a little elbow grease if desired.
Lay and Anchor Your Border
Pressure-treated wood is highly recommended when laying the border for your shed. This wood should also be at least 4×4 inches in size to provide a stable border for the structure. While laying and anchoring the border, be sure to check that each piece is level before securing it with rebar. There is a good chance that you will need to continue tamping the dirt as you work to keep things as level as possible; this is not a place to cut corners!
Pour and Tamp Your Gravel
After the wooden perimeter for your shed is down, all that’s left to do is to lay down some landscaping fabric to prevent weed growth and pour your crushed stone to a depth of about four inches. From there, you will need to tamp the gravel down. Check one more time to make sure that everything is level; if so, then your shed will be ready for installation.
Choosing the Right Shed
Looking for the perfect shed for your property? Let our team at Custom Sheds Unlimited help you! Contact us today at (508) 922-5037 to learn more about our shed offerings or to get a quote for a custom build.