What should I put under my Tuff Shed?

You should put a clean, level, and stable foundation under your Tuff Shed to ensure its longevity, stability, and proper performance. This foundation can take various forms, often involving a prepared gravel base, a concrete slab, or, for leveling purposes, concrete blocks and wood shims.

The Importance of a Proper Foundation

A well-prepared foundation is critical for any outdoor structure like a Tuff Shed. It provides:

• Stability: Prevents the shed from settling unevenly, shifting, or becoming unlevel over time.
• Moisture Protection: Lifts the shed off the ground, reducing exposure to ground moisture, which can lead to rot, mold, and mildew in the shed's floor and frame.
• Pest Deterrence: Creates a barrier against rodents and insects attempting to burrow under or into the shed.
• Structural Integrity: Ensures the shed's frame remains square and true, preventing issues with doors and windows sticking or frames warping.

It is essential that sheds are constructed on a level site. While providing a clean and level site is typically the customer's responsibility, for a reasonable fee, Tuff Shed can assist in creating a level building foundation by adding concrete blocks and wood shims beneath the structure.

Common Foundation Options for Tuff Sheds

Choosing the right foundation depends on factors like your local climate, soil type, budget, and the shed's intended use.

1. Gravel Base

A gravel base is a popular and cost-effective option, particularly for smaller to medium-sized sheds.

• Description: This involves excavating a shallow area, laying down a weed barrier, and then filling it with several inches of compacted crushed stone (e.g., 3/4-inch crushed stone or 'gravel fines'). A perimeter frame (often made of pressure-treated lumber) can be used to contain the gravel.
• Pros:
  • Excellent drainage, preventing water accumulation under the shed.
  • Relatively easy to install and level.
  • Cost-effective compared to concrete.
  • Allows airflow under the shed, reducing moisture.
• Cons:
  • Can settle or shift over many years if not properly compacted.
  • May not be suitable for very heavy sheds or extremely wet areas without additional preparation.
• Example: A base consisting of 4-6 inches of compacted gravel, extending at least 1 foot beyond the shed's perimeter.

2. Concrete Slab

A concrete slab provides the most durable and permanent foundation for a shed.

• Description: A poured concrete pad that is typically reinforced with wire mesh or rebar.
• Pros:
  • Superior stability and longevity.
  • Excellent moisture barrier.
  • Provides a solid, level surface for the shed floor.
  • Strongest protection against pests.
• Cons:
  • Most expensive option, often requiring professional installation.
  • Permanent – difficult to relocate.
  • Requires proper drainage around the slab to prevent water pooling.
• Example: A 4-6 inch thick concrete slab, with a vapor barrier underneath, sloped slightly away from the center for drainage.

3. Concrete Blocks and Wood Shims (for Leveling)

As part of the installation process, Tuff Shed can help ensure your shed is level on your prepared site.

• Description: Individual concrete blocks (like cap blocks or solid blocks) are strategically placed under the shed's skids or floor joists. Wood shims are then used on top of or between the blocks to achieve a perfectly level surface, especially on sites that are not perfectly flat.
• Pros:
  • Effective for minor site leveling.
  • Allows airflow under the shed.
  • Can be a cost-effective solution for existing unlevel ground, especially when coupled with Tuff Shed's leveling service.
• Cons:
  • Does not provide a full, continuous base; relies on the underlying ground for support.
  • May require more frequent checks for settling over time if the ground beneath is unstable.
• Example: Blocks placed at corners and along the shed's support beams, with shims used to compensate for elevation differences across the site.

4. Pressure-Treated Skids

Many Tuff Shed models come with integrated pressure-treated wood skids as part of their floor system. While not a full "foundation" in themselves, these skids form the base of the shed and are designed to rest directly on your prepared surface.

• Description: Heavy-duty, pressure-treated lumber beams that run the length of the shed, elevating the floor frame off the ground.
• Pros:
  • Part of the shed's standard construction, providing inherent support.
  • Allows for some air circulation beneath the shed.
  • Can allow for easier relocation of the shed if necessary.
• Cons:
  • Requires a well-prepared and level surface (like a gravel base or concrete slab) to rest upon.
  • Direct contact with the ground can lead to moisture issues if not properly elevated and ventilated.

Comparing Foundation Types

Here’s a quick comparison of the common options:

Key Considerations Before Installation

• Site Preparation: Ensure the area for your shed is cleared of debris, vegetation, and anything that could interfere with the foundation. The site must be level.
• Drainage: Plan for proper water drainage away from the shed to prevent water pooling around the foundation.
• Local Codes: Check local building codes and HOA regulations, as permits may be required for certain shed sizes or foundation types.
• Accessibility: Consider access for delivery and construction, especially if you plan to have Tuff Shed install the structure.