Gravel is an easy shed foundation to prepare and install while offering versatility in supporting various garden structures. It is not recommended as a base alone though, as it is prone to shifting and movement if not framed.
We will walk you through the benefits and discuss several steps you must take to correctly prepare for installation which we will take you through now.
Gravel foundation Yes, Gravel base No
A gravel foundation is a good option for a shed, with great drainage and a solid surface when compacted and supported. But a gravel base alone should be avoided as it does not have the rigidity to distribute the weight of the shed evenly and can shift or sink. Pair the gravel base with a framing system or a solid sub-base and the shed will be stable over time. Proper preparation and support turn gravel into a solid base, an unsupported gravel base is unstable.
Benefits of using a gravel foundation for a garden shed
Let us look into what the advantages of a gravel foundation for a garden shed are, and how using a gravel foundation will impact your shed:
- Good drainage - when using a gravel foundation for a garden shed, one of the benefits is having an effective drainage solution to reduce the chances of rot and decay. Preventing water from pooling under the shed is an essential part of maintaining shed health resulting in optimal longevity. Gravel makes for an easy shed foundation and is great at stopping pooling due to the smaller coarse pieces of non-decaying material that distribute water evenly throughout the surface area of the base
- Ease of installation - using a gravel foundation is very easy to transport and apply yourself reducing the need for additional labour. The material is widely available too meaning you will not have to shop around to acquire it and is an easy shed foundation choice for wooden sheds in particular
- Versatility - gravel is suitable for several types of garden structures and supports sheds of different material types. From wood to metal, using gravel is an effective choice when it comes to your shed’s foundation
How to prepare and install a gravel shed foundation
Before laying your gravel shed foundation, it is important to prepare to increase the effectiveness of your base and to ensure longevity.
Clear and level the ground
Start by clearing out the site where you will be laying your gravel shed foundation. Check for garden debris, stones, and weeds to ensure a smooth and level surface. Making sure your surface is level is an important step to ensure that there is no shifting over time and that your garden structure remains sturdy through harsh winds and weather conditions.
Mark the foundation area
Another important step in the process of preparing your gravel shed foundation is marking the foundation area. When taking measurements, be sure to avoid focusing on just the footprint. You must allow for extra space around the shed perimeter (approximately 10 to 12 inches) to facilitate proper air circulation. Mark the four corners using stakes and use string to ensure a straight and level outline for the area which can be double-checked with a spirit level.
Lay the weed barrier
A weed barrier will allow for water to run throughout the soil while suppressing weed growth that could otherwise grow through the gravel shed foundation. This is an important step as weeds impact the stability of your shed over time. Cut your chosen fabric to the size of the gravel foundation and ensure it is stretched out and free of any creases. Use pins to secure your barrier to the ground throughout the perimeter of the base.
Spread and compact the gravel
Empty your gravel on top of your weed barrier while using a rake to even spread the gravel throughout the base region while passing your shed's footprint. You should aim for a depth of approximately 4 inches of gravel to achieve optimal results while taking time to check for a smooth consistent finish that is level. Use a tamper tool (or similar) to progressively compact and compress the gravel from one end to the other. This will require multiple passes to ensure correct compression and the removal of air pockets that could cause problems if left.
Add a timber frame or plastic shed base
As we have said, Shedstore do not recommend using gravel as the only base. To enhance the style aesthetic and durability add a timber frame around your gravel foundation. This will also produce a neat finish and stop gravel from spilling over and away from its intended location. This can be added with a bit of DIY via measured pieces of treated timber fitted to the ground with stakes.
An alternative are the excellent plastic shed bases available, which we sell many sizes for. These work best when placed over the top of an underlying gravel foundation.
Is a gravel foundation suitable for all types of sheds?
Yes, below we discuss how a gravel foundation works with wooden, metal, and plastic sheds:
- Wooden sheds - gravel is an easy shed foundation choice for wooden sheds that are looking for a solid and reliable base that promotes good ventilation and effective water drainage
- Metal sheds - these can also be placed on a gravel foundation but may need additional anchoring with brackets and screws for added stability. Rebar Anchors can be attached to the metal shed frame to ensure increased stability through strong winds and harsh weather conditions
- Plastic sheds - these can safely sit on top of a gravel foundation but will require a level surface for the floor panels to fit correctly. By making sure you take time to spread and compact the gravel while accurately measuring your plastic shed base, you will have a reliable and safe base for your plastic shed
Tips for maintaining a shed on a gravel foundation
- Regular levelling - when maintaining your shed on a gravel foundation regular levelling is important to maintain its effectiveness. It is important to check your base periodically, but also after heavy rain and harsh winds that may have disrupted the gravel
- Weed control - despite having a weed barrier in place, you will still need to routinely check for weeds that may have found a way through your barrier. These can grow and spread with time further disrupting the area which can affect drainage and airflow. Replacing your barrier and adding more gravel may be required over time
- Water drainage - periodically check that water is draining correctly below your shed on a gravel foundation and ensure that the gravel region is free from debris or any type of buildup of unwanted material. Having a flat base containing the gravel is essential for correct ventilation and drainage when choosing a gravel foundation for a garden shed
Final thoughts on this easy shed foundation option
A gravel base is good for a shed base when prepared and supported with a frame or plastic base. It has good drainage, no water pooling and can support any type of shed when compacted. However, using gravel alone as a base is not recommended as it has no rigidity and can shift over time. By following best practices for preparation, installation and maintenance a gravel base is a durable solution for your shed’s base needs.
Contact us
Contact us to discuss whether choosing a gravel base for a garden shed is a good option for you. We can also discuss our range of plastic shed bases and wide range of sheds for sale:
- Phone - call us on 0333 003 0518
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