Shed Preparation Tips

Gravel pad for shed preparation

Before your new shed arrives, it's important that you've taken the time to plan and prepare your property for the structure. The following are some things to keep in mind while preparing for your new shed.

1. Decide Where Your Shed Will Go

Put some thought into where on your property your new storage structure will go. Space Planner Will Hapeman suggests these helpful questions to get you started:

  • What is the primary purpose of your new structure?
  • Is it important that it’s steps away from the back door or side door?
  • Will you need access to your shed on a daily or weekly basis?
  • Do you mind if you can see the shed from the street?

“You probably know what will go into your new shed but give some thought to who will be using it. If you plan to store the kids' pool toys or bikes, you may want it closer to the house," advises Hapeman. "If you are using your structure primarily for lawn, garden or maybe a mini green house, you could want that close by. If you have chosen to include sky lights, make sure you select a location that is in the direct path of your daily sun and don’t forget to take into account the slight difference in the sun’s location between seasons. If you will be doing any watering in your garden shed, or need water close by for your own specific use, keep the distance to the closest water source in mind. Same thing for electric: you can actually customize your storage shed with an electrical package but if you skip that and will be using tools that require electricity, or want lighting, make sure you’re close enough to a power supply."

Additionally, if you plan on having your structure delivered, be sure to choose a location that can be reached by a delivery vehicle. 

Just to make sure you are comfortable with the decision you made, map out the proposed area using a garden hose or even spray paint to get a better idea how it will look on moving day.

Insider's Tip: Make sure to select a flat area so the shed will be level. This is very important, as the shed must be level in order to remain structurally sound. In most cases, you should be able to eyeball it. In a worst case scenario, you may have to do a bit of digging to remove any bumps or large rocks. Don't forget to decide which way the shed will face. Which side do you want the doors to open?

2. Check Local Rules and Regulationsbackyard

Each township or municipality has varying degrees of restrictions. For example, one township may have virtually no restrictions, while another town may have several. Some locations don’t require any type of permit if you have a structure under a certain size. If you belong to a Home Owners Association, ask someone on the board about any rules. Check with us if the zoning office requires any paperwork. We may be able to supply it to you to give to the officials.

3. Prepare the Site for Your New Shed

A fast and easy way would be turn this task over to someone who does it professionally. Check with us at the office for someone we can recommend, or you can check with your favorite landscaper.

If you decide to tackle this yourself, the first thing to decide is which type of foundation to put down. Here are several foundation options:

  • Crushed Stone. Use about 6 inches of crushed stone. It is available at most Lawn and Garden Centers or Retail Landscapers. Spread out over the area your new shed will cover but adding about 12” on all sides, so the stone foundation will be larger than your shed. Start by clearing grass and dirt from your site in an area a little bigger than your shed. Make sure to keep this new dug up earth as flat as you can. Then spread out your crushed stone about 6 inches thick. Finally, flatten out the stone by stepping on a 4x6 to ensure it’s even.
  • Concrete Base. The best method, provided it’s done well by either an experienced do-it-yourselfer or a professional. It’s especially important to set the rows of slabs at the correct spacing’s, and running in the correct direction (at right-angles to the runners on the underside of the floor, or the optional timber bearers, if specified.) These rows may be up to 2' apart; however it is important that you have a row where two-piece floor sections abut each other (if appropriate). The base must be firm, level, square and designed to suit the floor size of the selected building. When the appropriate company contacts you to arrange a delivery date, ask them for a base plan, and make sure that you stick rigidly to it. Failure to do so may mean that the building cannot be installed without alterations
  • Rows of Paving Slabs. Simple, yet effective. The best solution if the building may need to be moved in future years.

4. Make Sure the Delivery Truck Can Get to the Site

shed delivery truckProbably the biggest benefit of your new structure is it will arrive completely built. Make sure the delivery truck can get to your location. Walk your property as if the truck were right there so you can develop a path you’ll want our delivery driver to take. If you foresee any problems with this, contact us and we can do a site-check and if necessary, for an additional charge, your building can be built on-site.

Shed Truck Delivery Checklist

  • What is the total length of your shed?
  • Add 4 foot to that for your total clearance?
  • Is there enough clearance to get off the street and to your selected location?
  • Are there any obstacles that will prohibit your move? Trees? Wells? Other buildings?
  • Is the terrain suitable for a delivery truck and shed?
  • Will the yard be dry so the truck won’t get stuck?

By taking the time to plan and prepare for your new shed, you can rest assured that the process will go smoothly from start to finish!

Looking for a new storage shed? Check out what Space Makers Sheds has to offer!

 

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